When you move to Nairobi, one thing quickly becomes clear: many households use domestic help.

It’s normal here. Professionals, families, diplomats, and even young couples often hire part-time cleaners or full-time housekeepers.

If you’re new to the city, you probably want straight numbers. How much does domestic help actually cost?

Here’s what you should budget in Nairobi.

Part-time cleaner (most common option)

If you live alone or as a couple, part-time help is usually enough.

Typical rate:

  • KES 1,000–2,000 per day

If the cleaner comes:

  • Once a week → about KES 4,000–8,000 per month

  • Twice a week → about KES 8,000–16,000 per month

  • Three times a week → about KES 12,000–24,000 per month

Rates depend on:

  • Location

  • Size of your apartment

  • Tasks required

In central areas like Westlands, Kilimani, and Riverside, daily rates usually sit closer to KES 1,500–2,000.

If you stay in one of our furnished and serviced apartments in Nairobi, you may not even need weekly cleaning. Many serviced units include housekeeping, which reduces your need for outside help.

Full-time live-out housekeeper

If you want someone working Monday to Saturday during the day, expect to pay:

  • KES 15,000–25,000 per month

In higher-end neighborhoods such as Lavington and Kileleshwa, salaries often range between KES 20,000–30,000 depending on experience.

Live-out means:

  • They go home in the evening

  • You don’t provide accommodation

  • You may add transport allowance (KES 2,000–4,000 per month)

This option works well if:

  • You work long hours

  • You want daily cleaning

  • You need light cooking support

Full-time live-in housekeeper

Live-in help costs slightly more because responsibilities tend to be broader.

Typical salary:

  • KES 18,000–30,000 per month

You must provide:

  • A private room

  • Meals

  • Utilities

In premium areas like Westlands, Riverside, and Kilimani, experienced live-in housekeepers can earn KES 30,000–35,000 per month.

Live-in arrangements make sense if:

  • You have a large home

  • You travel often

  • You need early morning or late evening flexibility

But if you’re staying in a serviced apartment, live-in help usually isn’t necessary. Space is optimized, and many services are already handled.

Nannies

If you have children, costs increase.

Live-out nanny

  • KES 18,000–35,000 per month

Live-in nanny

  • KES 25,000–45,000 per month

Higher salaries apply if the nanny:

  • Speaks fluent English

  • Has early childhood training

  • Has multiple years of experience

  • Manages school runs

In neighborhoods like Kilimani and Lavington, professional nannies often fall in the KES 30,000–40,000 range.

Cooks and specialized help

If you want someone focused primarily on cooking:

  • Part-time cook: KES 1,500–3,000 per visit

  • Full-time cook: KES 20,000–35,000 per month

Specialized roles cost more.

For example:

  • Trained caregiver: KES 30,000–50,000 per month

  • Professional house manager: KES 35,000–60,000 per month

Most new residents don’t need this level of support immediately.

Additional costs to consider

Salary isn’t the only cost.

You may need to budget for:

1. Transport allowance

Common for live-out staff:

  • KES 2,000–4,000 per month

2. Annual bonus

Many employers give a December bonus equal to one month’s salary.

3. Public holidays

Clarify whether holidays are paid or unpaid.

4. NSSF and NHIF contributions

Some employers register domestic workers for national social security and health insurance.

Be clear about this from the start.

Agency fees

If you hire through an agency, expect:

  • One-time placement fee: KES 10,000–30,000
    OR

  • Percentage of annual salary

Agencies cost more upfront but often include:

  • Background checks

  • Replacement guarantees

If you’re unfamiliar with local hiring norms, agencies reduce risk.

Monthly budget examples

Here’s what it might look like.

Scenario 1: Single professional in Kilimani

  • Part-time cleaner twice weekly: KES 12,000

  • Occasional deep cleaning: KES 3,000
    Total: KES 15,000 per month

Scenario 2: Couple in Westlands

  • Full-time live-out housekeeper: KES 25,000

  • Transport allowance: KES 3,000
    Total: KES 28,000 per month

Scenario 3: Family with one child in Lavington

  • Live-in nanny: KES 35,000

  • Housekeeper (part-time): KES 10,000
    Total: KES 45,000 per month

Do you actually need full-time help?

Before committing, ask yourself:

  • How large is your apartment?

  • Is housekeeping already included?

  • How long are you staying?

If you choose one of our furnished and serviced apartments in Nairobi, many services are already covered. That can reduce your monthly domestic help cost significantly.

Short stays rarely require full-time staff.

Final thoughts

Domestic help in Nairobi is affordable compared to many global cities. But costs vary widely depending on:

  • Role

  • Experience

  • Neighborhood

  • Working hours

At minimum, budget:

  • KES 8,000–15,000 per month for part-time cleaning

  • KES 20,000–35,000 per month for full-time support

Be clear about expectations. Agree on salary early. Pay on time.

And remember, your living setup affects how much help you need.

Choose the right apartment. Choose the right level of support. Keep your household simple.