Are you researching the Kenya teachers salary structure and allowance monthly pay by rank in 2025? This guide provides a detailed explanation of teachers’ salaries in Kenya, allowances they are entitled to, and a clear salary scale across different ranks and qualifications.
Whether you are a newly recruited teacher, an experienced professional, or simply interested in understanding how much teachers in Kenya earn, this article outlines everything you need to know including the latest salary adjustments, pay tables, and answers to common questions about teachers’ compensation.
Overview of Teachers Pay in Kenya
Teachers in Kenya are employed by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), which determines their remuneration in line with collective bargaining agreements (CBA) and government salary reviews. Teachers’ salaries depend on:
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Rank and job group
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Academic qualifications (certificate, diploma, degree)
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Teaching level (primary, secondary, technical)
In 2025, the TSC continues to implement progressive salary increments and allowances aimed at improving teachers’ welfare and motivating staff.
Kenya Teachers Salary Structure Per Month (2025)
Below is a detailed monthly salary structure for teachers in Kenya in 2025. This breakdown reflects both basic pay and typical allowances.
Job Groups and Salary Scales
TSC grades teachers into job groups, also known as grades, which define their pay and responsibilities.
Entry-Level Teachers
Primary Teacher I (Grade B5)
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Monthly Salary: KES 21,756 – KES 27,195
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Commonly referred to as P1 teacher
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Entry-level for primary school teachers
Secondary Teacher III (Grade C1)
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Monthly Salary: KES 27,195 – KES 33,994
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Diploma holders teaching in secondary schools
Mid-Level Teachers
Secondary Teacher II (Grade C2)
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Monthly Salary: KES 34,955 – KES 43,694
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Degree holders in secondary schools
Senior Teacher II (Grade C2)
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Monthly Salary: KES 34,955 – KES 43,694
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Senior primary school teachers
Senior Teacher I (Grade C3)
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Monthly Salary: KES 43,154 – KES 53,943
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Heads of departments and senior primary or secondary teachers
Senior-Level Teachers
Deputy Head Teacher II (Grade C4)
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Monthly Salary: KES 52,308 – KES 65,385
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Deputies in primary schools
Deputy Head Teacher I (Grade C5)
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Monthly Salary: KES 62,272 – KES 77,840
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Deputy heads of larger primary schools
Head Teacher (Grade D1)
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Monthly Salary: KES 77,840 – KES 93,408
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Head teachers of primary schools
Secondary School Teachers at Higher Levels
Senior Master III (Grade D1)
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Monthly Salary: KES 77,840 – KES 93,408
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Senior secondary teachers
Senior Master II (Grade D2)
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Monthly Salary: KES 91,041 – KES 109,249
Senior Master I (Grade D3)
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Monthly Salary: KES 104,644 – KES 125,573
Deputy Principal III (Grade D3)
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Monthly Salary: KES 104,644 – KES 125,573
Deputy Principal II (Grade D4)
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Monthly Salary: KES 118,242 – KES 141,891
Principal (Grade D5)
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Monthly Salary: KES 131,380 – KES 157,656
Summary Table: Kenya Teachers Salary Structure & Allowances by Rank (2025)
| Rank/Grade | Monthly Salary (KES) | Typical Allowances (KES) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Teacher I (B5) | 21,756 – 27,195 | 4,000 – 6,000 |
| Secondary Teacher III (C1) | 27,195 – 33,994 | 6,000 – 10,000 |
| Secondary Teacher II / Senior Teacher II (C2) | 34,955 – 43,694 | 7,500 – 12,000 |
| Senior Teacher I (C3) | 43,154 – 53,943 | 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Deputy Head Teacher II (C4) | 52,308 – 65,385 | 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Deputy Head Teacher I (C5) | 62,272 – 77,840 | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Head Teacher / Senior Master III (D1) | 77,840 – 93,408 | 20,000 – 25,000 |
| Senior Master II (D2) | 91,041 – 109,249 | 25,000 – 30,000 |
| Senior Master I / Deputy Principal III (D3) | 104,644 – 125,573 | 30,000 – 35,000 |
| Deputy Principal II (D4) | 118,242 – 141,891 | 35,000 – 40,000 |
| Principal (D5) | 131,380 – 157,656 | 40,000 – 50,000 |
Allowances for Teachers in Kenya (2025)
Teachers receive allowances in addition to their basic pay. Allowances are meant to compensate for the cost of living, risk, and responsibilities.
Common Allowances:
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House Allowance: Based on duty station.
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Commuter Allowance: Fixed monthly transport subsidy.
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Hardship Allowance: For teachers working in arid or insecure regions.
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Responsibility Allowance: For heads of departments, deputies, and principals.
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Leave Allowance: Paid annually during leave period.
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Special Duty Allowance: For special assignments or postings.
New Teachers Salary Structure Table (2025)
The new salary structure introduced in line with the current CBA maintains gradual increments and fair pay adjustments for all ranks. This progressive structure encourages retention and motivation across the teaching workforce.
Secondary School Teachers Starting Salary in Kenya (2025)
Secondary school teachers with a diploma (Grade C1) start with a salary of approximately KES 27,195, while those with a degree (Grade C2) begin at around KES 34,955. Their pay increases with promotions, experience, and added responsibilities.
P1 Teacher Salary and Allowances in Kenya (2025)
P1 teachers, now categorized under Primary Teacher I (B5), earn a basic monthly salary of KES 21,756 – 27,195. They also receive allowances such as commuter, house, and hardship pay where applicable.
Diploma Teacher Salary in Kenya (2025)
Diploma teachers, mostly placed at Grade C1, earn between KES 27,195 – 33,994 monthly, plus allowances depending on their posting and duties.
Kenya Teachers Salary Scale and Allowances Overview
Kenya’s teacher salary scale reflects job grade progression from B5 up to D5. As teachers ascend the ranks, their salaries and allowances increase proportionally.
Benefits of Working as a Teacher in Kenya
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Job Security: Permanent employment under TSC.
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Steady Career Growth: Clear promotion paths.
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Comprehensive Benefits: Medical insurance, pension, and gratuity.
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Allowances: Cushion against rising costs of living.
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Professional Development: Opportunities for training and scholarships.
FAQs About Kenya Teachers Salary Structure and Allowances (2025)
What is the starting salary of a primary school teacher in Kenya?
Around KES 21,756 – 27,195 per month for Primary Teacher I (Grade B5).
What is the highest salary a teacher in Kenya can earn?
Principals at Grade D5 can earn up to KES 157,656 monthly, plus allowances.
Do teachers receive hardship allowances?
Yes, teachers in designated hardship areas receive extra pay.
How much does a diploma teacher earn?
Approximately KES 27,195 – 33,994 per month.
Do teachers’ salaries increase automatically?
Yes, through annual increments and promotions based on performance and experience.
What is the salary of a secondary school teacher in Kenya?
It ranges from KES 27,195 for diploma holders to over KES 157,656 for principals.
Are there special allowances for school heads?
Yes, heads of departments, deputy heads, and principals receive responsibility allowances.
Does the TSC pay leave allowances?
Yes, teachers are entitled to leave allowances annually.
How often is the salary structure reviewed?
Periodically, in line with CBAs and government wage policies.
Can teachers earn more through promotions?
Yes, promotions to higher grades and leadership roles significantly raise pay.
Final Thoughts: Is Teaching a Good Career in Kenya in 2025?
The Kenya teachers salary structure and allowance monthly pay by rank in 2025 makes teaching a viable and respectable career path. With competitive salaries, job security, and opportunities for growth, the teaching profession continues to attract thousands of qualified Kenyans every year.
Whether you are starting out as a P1 teacher or aspiring to become a principal, the career offers steady progression, meaningful work, and decent compensation.