Furnished or Unfurnished? Here's What You Need to Know:
Furnished vs unfurnished apartments? Choosing between any isn’t just about convenience—it’s a lifestyle and financial decision that affects your everyday living.
You’ve found a beautiful apartment listing. It’s within your budget, great location, clean finish—but here’s the catch: It’s unfurnished. Should you go for it? Or should you search for something fully furnished, ready to move in?
This guide will help you weigh the pros, cons, and hidden realities of both options.
What’s the Actual Difference?
Type | What’s Included |
Furnished | Bed, sofa, table, cooker, fridge, curtains, sometimes Wi-Fi and TV |
Unfurnished | Just the shell: walls, windows, sometimes wardrobes and curtain rods only |
Some apartments may be semi-furnished, which include built-in closets, kitchen cabinets, and curtain rods—but no movable furniture.
Rent & Budget Comparison
Furnished costs more monthly. Unfurnished costs more upfront. Here’s how the numbers break down in Nairobi 2025:
Cost Factor | Furnished Apartment | Unfurnished Apartment |
Monthly Rent | Apx KSh 30,000 – 60,000 | Apx KSh 15,000 – 35,000 |
Deposit | Often higher (2–3 months) | Standard (1–2 months) |
Furniture Cost | Included | Apx KSh 50,000 – 100,000+ upfront |
Moving Expenses | Minimal (just clothes) | Higher (truck + bulky items) |
Total Setup Cost | Low | High, but one-time |
So while a furnished unit helps you move in faster, an unfurnished place could save you money over time—if you plan to stay long.
Who Should Choose a Furnished Apartment?
Furnished rentals are perfect for:
- Short-term tenants (interns, consultants, project-based workers)
- Expats or relocating employees
- Students or first-time renters without existing furniture
- Remote workers needing immediate setup
Pros:
- Move in with just your suitcase
- Less hassle buying or transporting furniture
- Easy to shift if you’re relocating often
Cons:
- Higher rent and deposit
- No flexibility in furniture choices
- You may be liable for damage to provided items
If you’re not staying long, furnished saves time. If you’re planting roots, unfurnished saves cash.
Who Should Choose an Unfurnished Apartment?
Unfurnished rentals are ideal for:
- People settling long-term
- Couples or familiesgrowing their home
- Renters who already own furniture
- Anyone who values design freedom
Pros:
- Cheaper rent
- Freedom to decorate and arrange your way
- No liability for landlord’s furniture
Cons:
- High setup costs (bed, sofa, cooker, etc.)
- Moving in takes time and planning
- Harder to shift on short notice
Pro Tip: Buy furniture gradually from Gikomba or online markets. You can spend much less for a basic setup.
Furnished vs Unfurnished: Lifestyle Fit
Lifestyle Goal | Better Option |
Working in Kenya for 3–12 months | Furnished |
Settling in Nairobi long-term | Unfurnished |
Hosting guests frequently | Unfurnished (more space) |
Saving time & effort | Furnished |
Decorating your space freely | Unfurnished |
Furnished gives you convenience. Unfurnished gives you control.
Security Deposit Rules: Watch This Closely
- Furnished units often come with higher deposits—sometimes up to 3 months’ rent
- Landlords may deduct money for wear-and-tear on beds, sofas, or curtains
- Always inspect and document all furniture on move-in day
- Ask for a signed inventory list and clearly defined damage policies
In contrast, unfurnished apartments have simpler deposit rules, and you’re less likely to be penalized for usage damage.
Resale & Flexibility: Another Unseen Factor
When you rent furnished:
- You can’t resell or move items
- You depend on landlord maintenance for repairs
- Customization is limited
When you rent unfurnished:
- You build your own asset base
- You can sell your furniture if you move
- You gain full creative control over your space
For long-term renters, this resale value can offset your initial furniture costs.
Less space usually means lower bills—if you play it right. Energy and water bills add up fast. But a few simple habits can help you save monthly:
- Unplug devices when not in use to avoid phantom electricity drain
- Use energy-saving bulbs and LED lights
- Wash clothes with cold water and hang-dry them
- Reuse greywater for mopping or toilet flushing if your building allows it
Bonus Tip: Nairobi’s weather makes it easy to dry clothes outside—take advantage.
Final Thoughts: Choose Based on Time, Money & Lifestyle
There’s no perfect answer—just the best fit for your season of life.
Go furnished if:
- You’re renting short-term
- You have limited time to shop
- You don’t want to commit to furniture ownership
Go unfurnished if:
- You’re staying long-term
- You want lower monthly rent
- You prefer freedom in how your home looks and feel
Your space should reflect your pace. Whether that’s a furnished fast-start or an unfurnished fresh canvas—you decide.
Want More Nairobi Rental Tips?
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READ ALSO: How To Budget For Your First Time Rent
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a furnished apartment always more expensive?
Generally, yes. You’ll pay more per month but avoid upfront costs like beds and cookers.
Can I remove furniture from a furnished apartment?
Sometimes, if the landlord agrees. But in most cases, what’s provided stays.
Do landlords deduct from my deposit for furniture wear?
Yes. That’s why it’s important to document all conditions before moving in.
Is it cheaper long-term to furnish your own apartment?
Yes—especially if you stay over a year. You also get to keep or sell your items.
Can I negotiate rent on a furnished apartment?
You can try—especially if you’re signing a longer lease. Some landlords may offer discounts.
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