Nairobi vs. Granada: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Nairobi presents a significantly higher cost of living compared to Granada, reflected in its overall index score of 54.1 versus Granada's 49.18. This difference is most pronounced in housing, where the average monthly rent for a 85m² apartment in Nairobi's city center is $3,500, substantially higher than Granada's $2,730. While salaries in Nairobi are considerably lower, the property price to income ratio is higher (12.9 vs. 7.42), indicating that housing costs consume a larger proportion of income in Nairobi. Food costs are relatively lower in Nairobi, particularly for street food, but groceries are cheaper in Granada. Transportation expenses are also cheaper in Nairobi, though healthcare quality is considerably worse, with a quality index of 64.3 compared to Granada's 77.06.

Food and groceries offer better value in Granada, with lower prices for mid-range restaurants, street food, and most grocery items compared to Nairobi. While dining out for two at a mid-range restaurant in Nairobi costs around $30, the same meal in Granada is approximately $28. Street food in Nairobi is significantly cheaper at $1.30 per person, versus $5.60 in Granada. Groceries are generally more affordable in Granada, except for basic staples like rice and wheat flour, which are slightly cheaper in Nairobi. Overall, Granada presents a more budget-friendly environment for daily consumables.

Transportation costs are substantially lower in Nairobi, primarily due to cheaper public transport and fuel. A monthly public transport pass costs around $30 in Nairobi, compared to $92 in Granada. Fuel prices are also significantly lower in Nairobi ($0.87/L) than in Granada ($1.74/L). However, Nairobi's traffic commute time index (50.9) is considerably higher than Granada's (29.38), reflecting longer daily commutes despite cheaper fuel and transport passes.

Healthcare represents a significant contrast between the two cities. Granada offers substantially better healthcare quality, with an index score of 77.06, while Nairobi scores much lower at 64.3. Although healthcare costs are likely lower in Nairobi, the quality of services, availability of advanced treatments, and infrastructure is considerably inferior. Granada benefits from a higher GDP per capita ($47,100) and a lower mortgage interest rate (3.45%), further supporting its overall economic advantage despite the higher cost of living.

The climate and pollution levels show slight differences. Nairobi has a higher climate index (86.55) than Granada (86.55), suggesting a generally more favorable perception of weather and environment. However, Nairobi's pollution index (38.74) is marginally higher than Granada's (38.74), indicating slightly worse air quality. Both cities face moderate pollution levels, but Nairobi's higher index warrants slightly more concern regarding long-term health impacts related to air quality.