Let me begin by saying that over 90% of Kenyans select where to live based on their workplaces. This means that people are forced to make due with poor living conditions provided they are close to their jobs. And I totally get it, no one wants to commute for over 2 hours to their workplace. Not considering the risk of always getting late and risking your job. However, if you are a remote worker, then you have the luxury of living practically anywhere your money can afford you. Aside from rents, there are a couple of factors to check in a place to ensure you get value for your money.
1. Internet access
The most important factor to consider is internet access. All of these jobs are hard to deliver if you don’t have access to stable internet. Always ensure that the neighborhood has got access to a number of internet service providers. This ensure that you have options to choose from when you move there. Also check out for reviews of the ISP so that you end up selecting the best one. Ask about;
- The internet stability
- The prices of the internet
- Customer care response time
2. Power stability
Another key part is on power. You will definitely need an area that has got frequent supply of electricity without periodic blackouts. During your house-hunt, ask about how often power disruptions occur in an area. Some places are plagued with transformer theft and other areas are simply overloaded. This makes power cuts quite normal and it can affect your delivery of tasks. Ask about the recent blackout and causes, it might seem like you are being petty, but it will help you make the right decision.
3. Access to co-working spaces
Remote jobs are enjoyable because you can work at the comfort of your home. However, once in a while, changing your environment boosts your productivity and creativity. Moving into an area with easy access to co-working spaces and coffee shops can help you with this. Moreover, it is a good place to connect with other like-minded people in the game.
4. Security
Security is a non-negotiable, both for you and your equipment. Many remote workers own expensive gadgets which help them in delivery of tasks. Getting an area with top-notch security safeguards your devices from theft and burglary. Moreover, if criminals learn your routine, they could easily follow you and violently rob you in between your movements.
5. The environment
Working from home has taught me how important nature is. Whenever the boredom of your four-walls gets to you, taking a break in a clean and lush environment can help you clear your mind. That is why moving into an area that is free from noise and air pollution is very important. Avoid places next to the road especially if it is a busy route. Noise can easily mess with your concentration and make it difficult for you to work.
6. Walkability
As I have said, working from home needs several breaks. During this breaks, doing an activity like walking outdoors can help you stay in shape while breaking monotony. An area that is easily walkable will really come in handy if you are a remote worker. Check for good roads with not so many people that it becomes a hustle to move around.
7. Community living
Unlike people who work a 9 to 5, remote workers are often alone. This can be mentally draining as we are social creatures. Living in an area where communal spaces are available can help you break this. Places that have communal gyms, lounges and club houses can come in clutch if you are a remote worker.
Best Areas for remote workers in Nairobi
I have compiled a blog of areas that match these characteristics. It also ranks these areas in terms of cost making it quite useful for your house hunt as a remote worker.
- Westlands
- Kilimani
- Kileleshwa
- Tatu City
- Kabete
- Muthiga
- Roysambu Mirema
- Kasarani Clay City
- Infinity City
- Kinoo
- Ruiru Kamakis
- Kikuyu
- Utawala
