Top 10 Kenyan Counties Where Workers Earn the Best Salaries in 2025

Top 10 Kenyan Counties Where Workers Earn the Best Salaries in 2025

Top 10 Kenyan Counties Where Workers Earn the Best Salaries in 2025.

Kenya’s economic landscape varies significantly across its counties, leading to disparities in average incomes. Understanding which counties offer higher earnings can provide valuable insights for job seekers, investors, and policymakers.

Nairobi leads with the highest average income, other counties like Mombasa, Nakuru, and Nyeri also offer substantial earning potential due to their diversified economies and strategic advantages.

1. Nairobi County

Nairobi, the capital city, stands out with the highest Gross County Product (GCP) per capita in Kenya. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), Nairobi’s GCP per capita reached KSh 802,344 in 2023, nearly three times the national average of KSh 293,229.

This economic dominance is attributed to Nairobi’s status as the primary economic hub, hosting numerous multinational corporations, financial institutions, and a vibrant service industry. The concentration of diverse industries offers a wide range of employment opportunities with competitive salaries.

2. Mombasa County

Mombasa ranks second with a GCP per capita of KSh 507,337. The county’s economy thrives on tourism, port activities, and trade, contributing to higher income levels for its residents. The presence of the Port of Mombasa, a critical gateway for East and Central Africa, bolsters employment in logistics and maritime services.

The tourism sector provides numerous job opportunities, further enhancing the county’s economic profile.

3. Nakuru County

Nakuru’s GCP per capita stands at KSh 334,667, placing it third among Kenyan counties. The county benefits from a diversified economy encompassing agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The recent elevation of Nakuru to city status has attracted investments, leading to job creation and improved infrastructure.

The agricultural sector, particularly floriculture and dairy farming, plays a significant role in boosting residents’ incomes.

4. Nyeri County

Nyeri County records a GCP per capita of KSh 317,459. The county’s economy is predominantly driven by agriculture, especially coffee and tea farming, which are major income earners. Additionally, Nyeri has seen growth in small and medium-sized enterprises, contributing to employment and income generation.

The county’s strategic location within the central region facilitates trade and access to markets, further enhancing economic activities.

5. Lamu County

Lamu has experienced significant economic growth, with its GCP per capita rising to KSh 304,024. This surge is partly due to the operationalization of the Lamu Port, which has opened up new avenues for trade and employment. The county’s focus on the blue economy, including fishing and maritime activities, has also contributed to higher income levels among residents.

The development of infrastructure projects under the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (LAPSSET) corridor is expected to further boost the county’s economic prospects.

6. Kiambu County

Kiambu’s proximity to Nairobi has spurred economic growth, with a GCP per capita of KSh 286,788. The county benefits from spillover effects of the capital, attracting industries and real estate developments.

Agriculture, particularly tea and coffee farming, also plays a vital role in the county’s economy. The diverse economic activities provide residents with various employment opportunities, contributing to higher average incomes.

7. Uasin Gishu County

Uasin Gishu, with Eldoret as its main urban center, has a GCP per capita of KSh 277,799. The county is known for its agricultural productivity, especially in maize and wheat farming. The presence of educational institutions and a growing manufacturing sector contribute to employment and income generation.

The county’s strategic location along the Northern Corridor enhances trade and logistics activities, further boosting its economic profile.

8. Kisumu County

Kisumu’s GCP per capita is KSh 274,947, reflecting its status as a key economic hub in Western Kenya. The county’s economy is bolstered by trade, fishing from Lake Victoria, and a growing service sector.

Recent investments in infrastructure, such as the revitalization of the Kisumu Port, have enhanced trade opportunities, contributing to higher income levels for residents. The county also hosts various industries, including manufacturing and agro-processing, providing diverse employment opportunities.

9. Kajiado County

Kajiado County has a GCP per capita of KSh 268,002. The county’s economy benefits from its proximity to Nairobi, attracting real estate developments and businesses seeking expansive land. Livestock farming, particularly pastoralism, is a significant economic activity among the Maasai community.

The county has seen growth in mining activities, especially in the extraction of minerals like limestone and soda ash, contributing to employment and income generation.

10. Machakos County

Machakos records a GCP per capita of KSh 268,002. The county’s economy is diversified, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and trade. The development of the Konza Technopolis, a flagship project aimed at creating a technology hub, is expected to attract investments and create employment opportunities.

The county’s strategic location along major highways enhances trade and logistics activities, contributing to higher income levels for residents.