Are you wondering how much a registered nurse in Kenya earns per month in 2025? This guide explains everything you need to know about the Kenya registered nurse salary structure per month, including their full pay breakdown, allowances, benefits, and the factors that influence their earnings.
Whether you are a nursing student, a practicing nurse, or simply exploring the healthcare profession, this article gives you clear, up-to-date information about the salaries of registered nurses (RNs) in Kenya today.
We will also compare registered nurses’ pay to diploma nurses, degree holders, and specialized nurses so you can understand how the pay scale works.
Who Is a Registered Nurse in Kenya?
A registered nurse (RN) in Kenya is a nursing professional who has completed accredited training — usually at the diploma or degree level — passed the Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) licensing exams, and is officially registered to practice.
Registered nurses form the backbone of healthcare delivery in Kenya. They work in hospitals, clinics, schools, community health programs, and sometimes in private practice. Their responsibilities include administering medications, caring for patients, monitoring vital signs, and assisting in surgeries or critical care.
Kenya Registered Nurse Salary Structure Per Month in 2025
Registered nurses in Kenya earn salaries based on their level of education, experience, location of work, and whether they work in the public sector (government hospitals) or private sector (private clinics and hospitals).
Their pay is structured according to job groups and salary scales, as set by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) and negotiated by unions such as the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN).
How Much Does a Registered Nurse Earn Per Month in Kenya?
Public Sector Salaries
Registered nurses working in county and national government hospitals earn as follows:
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Entry-level RN (Job Group H/J):
KES 45,000 – 65,000 (basic salary)
Plus allowances: KES 10,000 – 20,000
Total: KES 55,000 – 85,000 per month -
Mid-career RN (Job Group K/L):
KES 65,000 – 85,000 (basic salary)
Plus allowances: KES 15,000 – 25,000
Total: KES 80,000 – 110,000 per month -
Senior RN/Charge Nurse (Job Group M/N):
KES 90,000 – 120,000 (basic salary)
Plus allowances: KES 20,000 – 35,000
Total: KES 110,000 – 155,000 per month
Private Sector Salaries
In the private sector, pay varies widely based on the employer:
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Small private hospitals/clinics: KES 30,000 – 50,000 per month
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Established urban hospitals (e.g., Aga Khan, Nairobi Hospital): KES 80,000 – 120,000 per month
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Specialist RN roles in private hospitals: KES 130,000 – 180,000+
Summary Table: Kenya Registered Nurse Salary Structure (2025)
| Category & Rank | Estimated Monthly Pay (KES) |
|---|---|
| Public Sector — Entry-level RN | 55,000 – 85,000 |
| Public Sector — Mid-career RN | 80,000 – 110,000 |
| Public Sector — Senior RN | 110,000 – 155,000 |
| Private Sector — Small Clinic | 30,000 – 50,000 |
| Private Sector — Urban Hospital | 80,000 – 120,000 |
| Private Sector — Specialist RN | 130,000 – 180,000+ |
Allowances for Registered Nurses in Kenya
Besides the basic salary, RNs in Kenya are entitled to several allowances, especially in the public sector. These allowances increase the take-home pay significantly.
Common Allowances:
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Risk Allowance: For exposure to infections & hazardous materials (KES 3,000 – 10,000)
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House Allowance: Helps cover accommodation (KES 7,500 – 20,000 depending on location)
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Commuter Allowance: For transport to and from work (KES 5,000 – 12,000)
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Uniform Allowance: Covers maintenance of uniforms (KES 600 – 1,200 per quarter)
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Hardship Allowance: Paid to nurses in remote or insecure areas (KES 3,000 – 15,000)
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Overtime/On-call Allowance: Compensation for extended hours or night shifts
Factors That Influence Registered Nurse Salaries in Kenya
Several key factors determine a registered nurse’s monthly income:
Education Level
Degree-holding nurses generally earn more than diploma nurses. Specialized certifications like ICU or Theatre Nursing also attract higher pay.
Years of Experience
Nurses with more years of service earn more, thanks to promotions and experience-based raises.
Sector of Employment
Public sector jobs offer better allowances and job security, while private sector jobs can offer higher starting salaries but with fewer benefits.
Location
Nurses in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu tend to earn more because of higher living costs and larger hospital budgets.
Specialization
Specialists like ICU, theatre, and dialysis nurses earn more than general RNs.
How Registered Nurse Salaries Compare with Other Nurses in Kenya
| Category | Estimated Monthly Pay (KES) |
|---|---|
| Enrolled Nurse (Certificate) | 25,000 – 45,000 |
| Registered Nurse (Diploma) | 55,000 – 110,000 |
| Degree Nurse (BScN) | 80,000 – 150,000 |
| Specialized RN (ICU, Theatre) | 130,000 – 180,000+ |
As shown, registered nurses earn significantly more than enrolled nurses but less than highly specialized or advanced degree nurses.
Career Growth Opportunities for Registered Nurses
RNs in Kenya have various career advancement paths:
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Promotion to charge nurse, nurse manager, or director of nursing.
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Pursuing a degree or master’s in nursing for advanced roles.
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Specializing in critical care, midwifery, pediatrics, oncology, or other fields.
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Teaching in nursing schools or becoming clinical instructors.
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Moving into healthcare administration or policy roles.
Benefits of Being a Registered Nurse in Kenya
Job Security
Government-employed nurses enjoy permanent and pensionable terms.
Healthcare Cover
Public sector nurses often receive medical insurance for themselves and dependents.
Pension and Gratuity
Retirement benefits are guaranteed through the government pension scheme.
Professional Respect
Nursing is a respected profession with high demand.
Challenges of Being a Registered Nurse in Kenya
Heavy Workload
Staff shortages often lead to long hours and high patient loads.
Emotional Stress
Caring for critically ill patients can be draining.
Limited Resources
Many public hospitals struggle with equipment and supplies.
Shift Work
RNs often work nights, weekends, and holidays.
FAQs About Kenya Registered Nurse Salary Structure
How much does a registered nurse earn per month in Kenya?
Between KES 55,000 and 155,000 in the public sector, depending on experience and rank.
Do registered nurses earn more in the private sector?
Some top private hospitals pay more than public hospitals, but benefits may be better in public service.
What is the starting salary of a diploma nurse in Kenya?
For a registered diploma nurse, about KES 55,000 per month (including allowances) in public hospitals.
Does a degree nurse earn more than a diploma nurse?
Yes, degree nurses earn between KES 80,000 and 150,000+ per month.
What allowances do registered nurses get in Kenya?
They get risk, house, commuter, uniform, hardship, and overtime allowances.
Is nursing a good career in Kenya?
Yes. It offers stable employment, good pay, and opportunities for advancement.
Are there opportunities for registered nurses to work abroad?
Yes. Kenyan nurses are in high demand internationally.
How does experience affect a registered nurse’s salary?
More experience means promotions and higher salaries.
Do nurses in Nairobi earn more?
Yes, due to higher living costs and demand.
Can registered nurses specialize?
Yes, and specializations often come with higher pay.
Final Thoughts: Is Registered Nursing Worth It in Kenya?
Becoming a registered nurse in Kenya is one of the most rewarding and secure careers in healthcare. The salary structure is competitive, especially in the public sector where allowances and benefits add significantly to take-home pay.
Although the job can be demanding, the opportunities for career growth, the respect earned in the community, and the ability to impact lives make nursing a profession worth pursuing.
If you are passionate about healthcare and helping others, registered nursing offers not just a paycheck but a meaningful career.