Job Market Overview: Employment Statistics in Kenya

    Understanding Kenya's job market is crucial for both job seekers and employers. The country's current employment indicators show:


    Key Metric Current Status
    Total Population 53.771.296 residents
    Employment Rate 57.8% (below OECD average)
    Unemployment Rate 4.9% (very competitive market)
    Workforce Size 31.079.809 active workers

    These Kenya employment statistics reveal a tight labor market where candidates should highlight specialized skills. The 57.8% employment rate suggests moderate job availability across sectors.

    Living & Working in Kenya: Economic Insights

    Before relocating or applying for jobs in Kenya, consider these key economic factors:

    Economic Indicator Value Comparison to U.S.
    Average Monthly Salary 376,42 USD 8% of U.S. average (significantly lower)
    Purchasing Power 20.9 moderate compared to U.S. (100)
    Source: World Bank, Numbeo - Last updated May 2025

    With 20.9 purchasing power, salaries in Kenya provide adequate but budget-conscious lifestyles. The average monthly salary of 376,42 USD is particularly attractive in the Agriculture sector.

    Top Industries & Job Opportunities in KE

    Kenya's thriving job market spans these key sectors:

    Leading Industry Agriculture (growing at 5% annually)
    Emerging Sector Manufacturing (25% of workforce)
    Service Sector Tourism, Services (60% of GDP)
    Major Employers Safaricom, Kenya Commercial Bank, East African Breweries (hiring year-round)

    Job seekers should focus on Agriculture for the most opportunities, while Manufacturing offers growth potential. Major companies like Safaricom, Kenya Commercial Bank, East African Breweries frequently post openings for skilled professionals.


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    Working in Kenya - FAQs

    1. What's the employment situation in Kenya?

    With a population of 53,771,296 and an employment rate of 57.8%, Kenya offers a competitive job market. The unemployment rate currently stands at 4.9%.

    2. Which are the top companies in Kenya?

    The leading employers in Kenya include Safaricom, Kenya Commercial Bank, East African Breweries. These companies offer diverse opportunities across multiple sectors.

    3. How far does salary go in Kenya?

    The purchasing power ratio in Kenya is 20.9, meaning cost of living should be carefully considered when evaluating job offers.

    4. How can I find jobs in Kenya?

    Search our listings filtered for Kenya. Focus on industries where Safaricom, Kenya Commercial Bank, East African Breweries are active, and consider that the 57.8% employment rate suggests moderate competition for positions.

    5. What should I know about working in Kenya?

    With Safaricom, Kenya Commercial Bank, East African Breweries as major employers, the job market tends to favor Manufacturing and Tourism, Services.

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