If you’re looking for a clear, updated breakdown of the Kenya teachers salary by rank, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide explains everything you need to know about teacher salaries in Kenya from P1 teachers at entry-level to C2, diploma teachers, and graduate teachers. You will learn about their basic monthly salaries, allowances, and how earnings change with qualifications and promotions.
Whether you are a teacher, aspiring to join the profession, or simply researching education careers in Kenya, this article offers an in‑depth look at teacher pay in 2025 and beyond.
Understanding Teachers’ Pay in Kenya
Teachers employed in public schools in Kenya fall under the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), which determines their salaries, allowances, and career progression.
Their pay depends on:
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Academic qualifications (certificate, diploma, degree).
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Job group (also called grade or rank).
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Experience and promotions.
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Location (e.g., hardship areas receive extra allowances).
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Leadership responsibilities (e.g., head teachers and principals earn more).
Over the years, the teachers’ salary structure has been revised through Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) between TSC and teachers’ unions like KNUT and KUPPET.
Kenya Teachers Salary Structure by Rank in 2025
Below is the detailed salary structure by rank, as per the latest estimates for 2025.
P1 Teacher Salary and Allowances
P1 teachers are at the B5 grade, which is the lowest rank for trained primary school teachers.
They usually have a Primary Teacher Certificate and are employed to teach at public primary schools.
Estimated Monthly Salary for P1 Teachers (B5)
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Basic Salary: KES 21,756 – 27,195
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House Allowance: KES 4,200 – 7,500 (depending on location)
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Commuter Allowance: KES 4,000
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Hardship Allowance: KES 6,600 – 10,900 (if applicable)
Total Monthly Pay (Approx.):
KES 30,000 – 40,000+
Responsibilities:
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Teaching primary school pupils.
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Managing classrooms.
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Preparing lesson plans and assessments.
C2 Teacher Salary and Allowances
C2 teachers are mostly secondary school teachers with a diploma or a bachelor’s degree.
This is a mid‑level grade occupied by graduate teachers early in their careers or diploma teachers with experience.
Estimated Monthly Salary for C2 Teachers
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Basic Salary: KES 34,955 – 43,694
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House Allowance: KES 7,500 – 16,500
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Commuter Allowance: KES 5,000
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Hardship Allowance: KES 8,200 – 30,000 (if applicable)
Total Monthly Pay (Approx.):
KES 50,000 – 65,000+
Responsibilities:
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Teaching secondary school students.
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Supervising exams.
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Participating in co‑curricular activities.
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Mentoring students.
Diploma Teacher Salary and Allowances
Diploma teachers can be posted at primary or secondary schools and fall under job groups C1 or C2, depending on their experience and responsibilities.
Estimated Monthly Salary for Diploma Teachers
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Basic Salary: KES 27,195 – 43,694
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House Allowance: KES 4,200 – 16,500
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Commuter Allowance: KES 4,000 – 5,000
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Hardship Allowance: KES 6,600 – 30,000
Total Monthly Pay (Approx.):
KES 35,000 – 65,000+
Graduate Teacher Salary and Allowances
Graduate teachers (with a bachelor’s degree) typically enter at C2 and can rise to C3 and above with time and promotions.
They are employed in secondary schools and often take leadership roles with experience.
Estimated Monthly Salary for Graduate Teachers
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Basic Salary: KES 34,955 – 53,943
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House Allowance: KES 7,500 – 20,000
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Commuter Allowance: KES 5,000 – 6,000
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Hardship Allowance: KES 8,200 – 38,100
Total Monthly Pay (Approx.):
KES 55,000 – 85,000+
Summary Table: Kenya Teachers Salary by Rank in 2025
| Rank/Qualification | Job Group | Basic Salary (KES) | Total Pay (Approx. KES) |
|---|---|---|---|
| P1 Teacher | B5 | 21,756 – 27,195 | 30,000 – 40,000+ |
| Diploma Teacher | C1/C2 | 27,195 – 43,694 | 35,000 – 65,000+ |
| C2 Teacher | C2 | 34,955 – 43,694 | 50,000 – 65,000+ |
| Graduate Teacher | C2/C3 | 34,955 – 53,943 | 55,000 – 85,000+ |
Other Allowances for Teachers in Kenya
In addition to the basic salary, teachers enjoy several allowances:
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House Allowance: Paid to cater for housing costs.
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Commuter Allowance: To cover transport expenses.
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Hardship Allowance: For teachers in hardship areas like arid and semi‑arid regions.
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Responsibility Allowance: For headteachers, deputies, and senior teachers.
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Leave Allowance: Paid once a year during leave.
How Salaries Increase With Rank and Experience
Teachers progress through ranks based on:
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Academic advancement.
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Years of service.
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Performance appraisals.
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Successful application for promotions.
Higher ranks come with higher salaries, more allowances, and additional responsibilities.
Career Growth and Prospects for Teachers in Kenya
With commitment and further studies, teachers can rise through the ranks to leadership positions such as:
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Senior Teacher
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Deputy Headteacher
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Headteacher
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Principal
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Senior Principal
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Chief Principal
Each of these roles offers higher pay and leadership opportunities.
Factors That Affect Teachers’ Salaries
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Location: Teachers in Nairobi and urban areas receive higher house allowances.
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School level: Secondary school teachers generally earn more than primary teachers.
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Job group: The higher the job group, the better the pay.
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Special duties: Teachers with extra responsibilities earn more.
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Hardship posting: Additional pay for difficult locations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the starting salary for a P1 teacher in Kenya?
Approximately KES 21,756 basic pay, with total earnings around KES 30,000 – 40,000 per month.
2. How much does a C2 teacher earn per month?
A C2 teacher earns a basic salary of KES 34,955 – 43,694, plus allowances, totaling about KES 50,000 – 65,000+.
3. Do diploma teachers earn less than graduate teachers?
Yes. Diploma teachers typically earn less but can still rise to higher pay with experience.
4. How much is the hardship allowance for teachers?
Between KES 6,600 and 38,100, depending on the hardship area and job group.
5. Can a P1 teacher be promoted?
Yes, through further studies, exemplary service, and passing interviews, P1 teachers can move to higher ranks like C1 or C2.
6. Do teachers get paid during school holidays?
Yes, teachers are on permanent and pensionable terms, so they earn throughout the year.
7. How often are salaries reviewed?
Usually after negotiations of new CBAs between TSC and unions.
8. Is the house allowance uniform across the country?
No, teachers in Nairobi and major towns receive higher house allowances than those in rural areas.
9. Are TSC teachers paid better than private school teachers?
Generally, yes. TSC offers better salaries, job security, and benefits compared to most private schools.
10. Do teachers receive pensions after retirement?
Yes. Teachers under TSC are entitled to pension and gratuity after retirement.
Final Thoughts: Is Teaching a Well‑Paying Career in Kenya?
Teaching in Kenya remains one of the most secure and respected professions, with steady pay, allowances, and career progression opportunities.
While the starting salary at entry levels (like P1) may seem modest, promotions and qualifications can significantly improve your earnings over time. Teachers who pursue further studies and take leadership roles can achieve impressive earnings and benefits.
If you’re considering a career in teaching, understanding the Kenya teachers salary by rank helps you set realistic goals and plan your career path effectively.