Bringing Home the Dream: How Kenyans Abroad Invest in Real Estate

For many Kenyans living and working abroad, sending money home is more than just supporting family—it’s about building a future. One of the most significant ways they do this is by investing in real estate, turning their hard-earned money into lasting assets.

Employment Drives the Highest Investment

Data from The Diaspora Remittances Survey, December 2021 reveals that employment-driven migration leads to the highest real estate investment in Kenya, averaging $130,010 per person. This suggests that Kenyans who move abroad for work see property ownership as a key financial goal—whether for future relocation, rental income, or securing a home for their families.

Settlement Abroad, but Still Investing at Home

Those who migrate for settlement are the second-largest investors, averaging $66,601 in real estate back in Kenya. Even after establishing roots in foreign countries, these Kenyans remain financially connected to home—likely purchasing property for family members or as a contingency plan for future returns.

Education as a Pathway to Property Ownership

Migration for education also translates into significant real estate investment, with an average of $49,822 sent back home. While students themselves may not be the direct investors, their families often prioritize property purchases—possibly reinvesting tuition savings or preparing for their return.

Lower Investment Among Diplomats and Other Groups

On the lower end, Kenyans who leave for diplomatic duties invest comparatively less in local real estate, with those in Kenyan missions averaging $5,700 and those in international organizations contributing about $20,000. Given their government-backed housing and frequent relocations, they may not see immediate value in property investments back home.

Surprisingly, Kenyans migrating for marriage invest an average of $6,600 in real estate, likely securing a family home. Meanwhile, those in the "Other" category record the lowest investment, averaging $1,233, reflecting cases where real estate is not a financial priority.

Beyond the Numbers: A Story of Connection and Commitment

What this data tells us is more than just numbers—it’s a story of commitment to home, economic foresight, and the desire to build a legacy. Whether driven by career advancement, permanent settlement, or family considerations, the Kenyan diaspora plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s real estate market.

As Kenya continues to receive increasing remittances from abroad, understanding these investment trends can help policymakers, financial institutions, and real estate developers tailor opportunities that align with the needs of the diaspora.

After all, home is not just where we are—it’s where we build for the future.