Software Engineer salary in Kenya

Average Yearly Salary of Software Engineer in Kenya is approximately 2,064,075 KES (13,034 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Software Engineer do?

A software engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. They analyze user needs and requirements to create efficient and functional software solutions. Software engineers write code using programming languages such as Java, C++, Python, or JavaScript, and they also conduct testing and debugging to ensure the software functions properly. They collaborate with other team members, including project managers, designers, and quality assurance testers, to deliver high-quality software products. Additionally, software engineers may be involved in troubleshooting and resolving software issues, as well as staying updated with industry trends and advancements.

Skills: Software development, Programming, Software design, Software testing, Problem-solving, Collaboration
Job industry: Technology

How much does Software Engineer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here

Salary comparison to National average

Is Software Engineer a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Software Engineer is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Software Engineer?

High salary for Software Engineer would be somewhere between 2,270,483 KES and 2,992,909 KES. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Software Engineer in Kenya?

Living in Kenya the approximate monthly expenses are: 240 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 2,064,075 KES
Estimated Monthly Salary: 172,006 KES
Estimated Weekly Salary: 39,694 KES per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 992 KES per hour
By working as Software Engineer a person can save up to 846 USD per month or 10,154 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in Kenya, see costs of living in Kenya.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda..
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Software Engineer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in Kenya

Data as of 2025

Random salary:
Laboratory services director (1,306,123 KES per year, pre-tax.)
Traffic continuity coordinator radio station (485,692 KES per year, pre-tax.)
Academic affairs director (1,771,040 KES per year, pre-tax.)
Grants management specialist (898,920 KES per year, pre-tax.)
Senior database engineer (1,582,714 KES per year, pre-tax.)

Feedback about these results