Welcome to your guide to the Kenya job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. Here you will find key figures on employment, salaries and the economy to support your next career step or recruitment decision in Kenya.
Job market overview
| Key metric | Current value |
|---|---|
| Total population | 53,771,296 residents |
| Employment rate | 57.8% |
| Unemployment rate | 4.9%Low unemployment – employers often compete for skilled staff. |
With an unemployment rate of 4.9%, Kenya has a tight labor market. Skilled professionals are usually in demand.
Living & working in Kenya: salaries and cost of living
Before relocating or applying for jobs in Kenya, consider these key economic factors:
| Indicator | Value | Compared with the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Average monthly salary | 376 USD | 8% of the U.S. averagesignificantly lower |
| Purchasing power | 20.9 | weaker (U.S. = 100) |
With a purchasing power index of 20.9, the average monthly salary of 376 USD supports a budget-conscious lifestyle in Kenya. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.
Top industries & employers in KE
| Leading industry | Agriculture |
| Growth sector | Manufacturing |
| Service sector | Tourism, Services |
| Major employers | Safaricom, Kenya Commercial Bank, East African Breweries |
Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Agriculture, while Manufacturing offers growth potential.
Working in Kenya – FAQ
What's the employment situation in Kenya?
Kenya has a population of about 53,771,296. The employment rate is 57.8%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 4.9%.
Which are the top companies in Kenya?
Large employers in Kenya include Safaricom, Kenya Commercial Bank, East African Breweries.
How far does a salary go in Kenya?
The purchasing power index for Kenya is 20.9 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.
How can I find jobs in Kenya?
Browse the latest international openings on Cityjobs and filter by country or remote work. Employers post directly, and you apply with the employer.
Which industries matter most in Kenya?
Agriculture is the leading industry, while Manufacturing is an important growth sector, alongside Tourism, Services.
Data sources & methodology
The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:
- Employment & economic data: World Bank Indicators
- Cost of living & salaries: Numbeo Cost of Living Database
