Most people, especially those intending to live in Nairobi always seek to know the average salary in the city. Well, the salary varies based on one’s profession and professional experience. But when you average the salary of every individual in Nairobi, the rough estimate is Ksh 40,000 per month.
According to statistics, nearly 70% of the workers earn below Ksh 50,000, it’s only 10% that pocket over Ksh 100,000 per month.
The highest paid employees in Nairobi are pilots, doctors, lawyers, politicians, expatriates and senior managers in various organizations. On average, a politician (MP, Senator,Governor,Women Rep) pocket Ksh1 million per month. The average salary of a CEO in Nairobi is Ksh700,000 while pilots earn an average salary of Ksh 900,000 per month.
The lowest paid employees in Nairobi are teachers, secretaries, construction workers, security officers, house helps and casual workers in industries. The average pay of a secretary/receptionist in Nairobi is Ksh 30,000. Security officers, who include policemen and women as well as those working in security firms earn between Ksh7,000 and Ksh50,000. It’s only senior police officers who pocket over Ksh 100,000 per month.
Lawyers who go for private practice are paid handsomely. I know of a couple of lawyers like Cliff Ombeta and Ahmedinasir who make in excess of Ksh 10 million per month.
If you wish to live in Nairobi and have a comfortable life, the average salary you should earn is Ksh 160,000. After deductions, you’ll take home Ksh117,000. With Ksh 117,000, you’ll subtract Ksh20,000 for rent,Ksh 20,000 for transport,Ksh 20,000 for food and Ksh 20,000 for miscellaneous expenses. You will save approximately Ksh 40,000.
If your monthly salary is Ksh30,000, you’ll be pushed to slums where you pay a monthly rent of Ksh 5,000, spend Ksh 5,000 for transport, Ksh5,000 for food, Ksh 5,000, Ksh 5,000 for miscellaneous and save nothing. The salary will subject you to eternal poverty.The only way you can survive with this pay is by starting a small business venture that will supplement your income.
