Are you looking for detailed information about the Kenya Judges and Magistrates salary structure and allowance in 2025? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know — from monthly salaries, allowances, benefits, and rank-based pay scales to how these figures compare with other public servants in Kenya.
Whether you’re aspiring to join the judiciary, researching for career planning, or simply curious about how judicial officers are compensated, this article provides accurate insights for you.
The Role of Judges and Magistrates in Kenya
Judges and magistrates form the backbone of Kenya’s judiciary. They are entrusted with interpreting and enforcing the law, resolving disputes, protecting constitutional rights, and upholding justice.
Kenya’s judiciary is organized into several tiers:
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Supreme Court
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Court of Appeal
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High Court
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Magistrates’ Courts
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Other specialized tribunals
Salaries and allowances are determined by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) in line with the Constitutional provisions of fair pay and the principle of separation of powers.
Kenya Judges and Magistrates Salary Structure by Rank (2025)
Kenya’s judicial officers are paid based on their rank, experience, and court level. Salaries are also influenced by statutory reviews and budget allocations.
Below is a detailed breakdown of salaries per rank.
Supreme Court Judges
Chief Justice (President of the Supreme Court)
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Monthly Salary: KES 1,500,000 – KES 1,800,000
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Responsibilities: Head of the Judiciary and Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission.
Deputy Chief Justice (Vice President of the Supreme Court)
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Monthly Salary: KES 1,200,000 – KES 1,500,000
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Responsibilities: Assists the Chief Justice and acts as CJ in their absence.
Judge of the Supreme Court
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Monthly Salary: KES 1,000,000 – KES 1,300,000
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Responsibilities: Hearing and determining appeals of significant constitutional and public interest.
Court of Appeal Judges
President of the Court of Appeal
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Monthly Salary: KES 950,000 – KES 1,100,000
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Responsibilities: Heads the Court of Appeal and assigns duties to judges.
Judge of the Court of Appeal
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Monthly Salary: KES 850,000 – KES 1,000,000
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Responsibilities: Hear appeals from the High Court and tribunals.
High Court Judges
Principal Judge of the High Court
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Monthly Salary: KES 750,000 – KES 900,000
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Responsibilities: Heads the High Court and oversees its administration.
Judge of the High Court
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Monthly Salary: KES 700,000 – KES 850,000
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Responsibilities: Adjudicates civil, criminal, and constitutional cases at the first instance.
Magistrates
Chief Magistrate
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Monthly Salary: KES 400,000 – KES 500,000
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Responsibilities: Supervises magistrates within their jurisdiction and handles higher-level cases in magistrates’ courts.
Senior Principal Magistrate
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Monthly Salary: KES 350,000 – KES 400,000
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Responsibilities: Hears intermediate-level cases.
Principal Magistrate
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Monthly Salary: KES 300,000 – KES 350,000
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Responsibilities: Adjudicates a range of civil and criminal matters.
Senior Resident Magistrate
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Monthly Salary: KES 250,000 – KES 300,000
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Responsibilities: Handles routine cases and supervises lower-ranked magistrates.
Resident Magistrate
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Monthly Salary: KES 200,000 – KES 250,000
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Responsibilities: Deals with less complex civil and criminal matters.
District Magistrate
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Monthly Salary: KES 150,000 – KES 200,000
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Responsibilities: Entry-level magistrate role.
Summary Table: Kenya Judges and Magistrates Salaries & Allowances (2025)
| Rank | Monthly Salary (KES) | Estimated Allowances (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Justice | 1,500,000 – 1,800,000 | 300,000 – 500,000 |
| Deputy Chief Justice | 1,200,000 – 1,500,000 | 250,000 – 400,000 |
| Supreme Court Judge | 1,000,000 – 1,300,000 | 200,000 – 350,000 |
| President of Court of Appeal | 950,000 – 1,100,000 | 180,000 – 300,000 |
| Judge of Court of Appeal | 850,000 – 1,000,000 | 150,000 – 250,000 |
| Principal Judge, High Court | 750,000 – 900,000 | 120,000 – 200,000 |
| High Court Judge | 700,000 – 850,000 | 100,000 – 180,000 |
| Chief Magistrate | 400,000 – 500,000 | 70,000 – 100,000 |
| Senior Principal Magistrate | 350,000 – 400,000 | 60,000 – 90,000 |
| Principal Magistrate | 300,000 – 350,000 | 50,000 – 80,000 |
| Senior Resident Magistrate | 250,000 – 300,000 | 40,000 – 70,000 |
| Resident Magistrate | 200,000 – 250,000 | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| District Magistrate | 150,000 – 200,000 | 20,000 – 40,000 |
Allowances for Judges and Magistrates in Kenya (2025)
Judges and magistrates receive several allowances alongside their basic salaries, reflecting the demands and responsibilities of their work. These include:
Common Allowances:
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Judicial Responsibility Allowance: Compensates for the burden of decision-making.
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Transport Allowance: Covers official travel and commuting expenses.
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Housing Allowance: For those not accommodated in government housing.
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Entertainment Allowance: For official hospitality.
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Medical Cover: Comprehensive health benefits for officers and their dependents.
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Security Allowance: Especially for senior judges due to the sensitive nature of their work.
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Leave Allowance: Paid annually during leave periods.
Senior officers may also have access to official cars, drivers, and security personnel.
Rank Structure of Judges and Magistrates in Kenya
The hierarchy ensures a clear chain of command, responsibility, and pay.
Judges:
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Chief Justice
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Deputy Chief Justice
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Judge of the Supreme Court
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President of the Court of Appeal
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Judge of the Court of Appeal
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Principal Judge of the High Court
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High Court Judge
Magistrates:
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Chief Magistrate
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Senior Principal Magistrate
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Principal Magistrate
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Senior Resident Magistrate
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Resident Magistrate
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District Magistrate
How Promotions Affect Salaries and Allowances
Promotions within the judiciary are based on:
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Seniority and years of service.
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Performance and integrity.
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Successful completion of professional development programs.
Each promotion results in a salary increment, enhanced allowances, and greater responsibilities.
Comparison: Judicial Salaries vs Other Public Servants in Kenya (2025)
| Profession | Entry-Level Salary (KES) | Top Rank Salary (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Judges & Magistrates | 150,000 – 200,000 | 1,800,000+ |
| University Professors | 150,000 – 250,000 | 800,000+ |
| Senior Doctors | 200,000 – 300,000 | 1,000,000+ |
| Cabinet Secretaries | 800,000 | 1,500,000+ |
Judges and magistrates are among the highest-paid public servants in Kenya due to the crucial and sensitive nature of their work.
Benefits of Working as a Judge or Magistrate in Kenya
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Job Stability: Secured tenure with constitutional protection.
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Attractive Compensation: Competitive salaries and allowances.
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Career Growth: Opportunities for elevation to higher courts.
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Prestige: Respected positions in society.
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Retirement Benefits: Pension and gratuity plans.
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Medical & Insurance: Comprehensive health care coverage.
How Salaries Are Paid
Salaries are paid monthly by the Judiciary’s payroll department and deposited directly into officers’ bank accounts. Payslips itemize the salary, allowances, deductions (such as PAYE and NSSF), and benefits.
FAQs About Kenya Judges and Magistrates Salaries (2025)
What is the starting salary of a District Magistrate in Kenya?
Between KES 150,000 and KES 200,000 monthly.
How much does the Chief Justice earn in 2025?
Between KES 1.5 million and KES 1.8 million monthly, plus allowances.
Do judges receive housing allowances?
Yes, if they are not housed in government-provided residences.
Are judges’ salaries taxed?
Yes, salaries are subject to statutory deductions.
Do magistrates earn more than doctors?
At senior levels, judges and magistrates earn more than most public-sector doctors.
Are judicial officers entitled to security?
Yes, senior judges and magistrates receive personal security due to the nature of their work.
What allowances are unique to the judiciary?
Judicial Responsibility and Security Allowances are unique to judicial officers.
Do promotions automatically raise salaries?
Yes, every promotion comes with a higher pay grade and increased allowances.
How often are salaries reviewed?
Periodically, by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission.
Can magistrates become judges?
Yes, through experience, qualifications, and judicial appointments.
Final Thoughts: Is a Judicial Career Worth It in 2025?
The Kenya Judges and Magistrates salary structure and allowance in 2025 makes a judicial career both prestigious and financially rewarding. Beyond the salary, the role provides job security, respect, and a meaningful opportunity to contribute to justice and governance in Kenya.
If you’re considering a career in Kenya’s judiciary, you can expect competitive compensation, structured growth, and a fulfilling path.