Private security services in Nairobi Kenya have been in high demand over the last few years due to increasing concerns for security in residential and commercial areas. Ranging from securing homes and enterprises to event security, the work of security guards cannot be overstressed in providing peace of mind. However, among the most common questions asked by business entities and individuals who want to outsource security services is: how much does it cost to employ a security guard in Nairobi? This blog looks at the determinants of the security guard services prices in Nairobi Kenya, the price range, and how to select the best security company while providing a generalized overview of the market in 2025.
Factors Affecting Security Guard Services Prices in Nairobi Kenya
The cost of hiring security guards in Nairobi varies based on a variety of significant parameters. Understanding them will help you make an informed decision while selecting a security provider.
1. Type of Security Services needed
Security services in Nairobi Kenya range from unarmed guards to armed personnel, VIP escorts, dogs, and specialist services like event security or executive protection. Unarmed guards are generally more affordable, while armed guards or trained individuals (like bodyguards) command higher fees due to the additional expertise and risk involved.
2. Duration of security services and Shift Type
The length of service and whether day or night shift influences prices. Night shifts are more costly due to higher risk and necessity for alertness. The longer contracts (e.g., monthly or yearly) typically offer better rates than short-term or single assignments.
3. Level of Training and Expertise
Advanced training guards, like PSRA-certified guards, or military or law enforcement graduates are costlier. Such firms as Groupten Security Services highlight the high standards of training of their guards, which can call for extra costs.
4. Location and Risk Level
The urban location in Nairobi, with its quick-paced challenges of traffic and crime hotspots, can influence prices. Risky areas or work requiring additional security measures (e.g., in the vicinity of shopping centers or tourist attractions) may command a higher price.
4. Additional Equipment and Technology
Some security providers, such as Groupten Secruity Services, offer add-on packages like CCTV monitoring, alarm response, or dog units apart from manned guarding. These are additional charges that go to the overall cost but offer extra coverage.
Average Costs of Security Guard Services in Nairobi Kenya
According to recent statistics by, it takes different amounts to employ a security officer in Nairobi based on the above factors. The following is a brief overview of security guard prices in Kenya in the year 2025:
Assuming a single unarmed officer, the average price would be anywhere from KSh 15,000 to KSh 50,000 monthly, with a mean of around KSh 30,000 for a standard 45-hour week. This is consistent with the PSRA-minimum wage enacted in 2023, calling for a minimum gross pay of KSh 30,000 for guards serving in Nairobi, including KSh 18,994 as a basic wage, home allowance of KSh 2,849, and overtime allowance of KSh 8,157.
Armed Security Guards: An armed guard or a specialized service like VIP protection or canine may cost significantly higher, ranging from KSh 50,000 to over KSh 100,000 per month depending on the supplier and the particular requirements. Companies like ETS Risk Management highlight the use of armed escorts for high-risk situations, which are costlier due to licensing and training.
Event Security or Short-Term Assignments: For one-time events like weddings or concerts, security guards can charge per day or per hour. Rates vary between KSh 1,500 to KSh 5,000 a guard a day depending on whether they are armed or bouncers.
Additional Fees: Some institutions charge customers extra for night shifts, emergency services, or premium technology like CCTV surveillance. For example, Groupten Security Services claims prices are increased when there is a requirement for sophisticated security systems.
Average Costs of Security Guards in Nairobi
According to recent statistics, it takes different amounts to employ a security officer in Nairobi based on the above factors. The following is a brief overview of average 2025 prices:
Assuming a single unarmed officer, the average price would be anywhere from KSh 15,000 to KSh 50,000 monthly, with a mean of around KSh 30,000 for a standard 45-hour week. This is consistent with the PSRA-minimum wage enacted in 2023, calling for a minimum gross pay of KSh 30,000 for guards serving in Nairobi, including KSh 18,994 as a basic wage, home allowance of KSh 2,849, and overtime allowance of KSh 8,157.
Armed Security Guards: An armed guard or a specialized service like VIP protection or canine may cost significantly higher, ranging from KSh 50,000 to over KSh 100,000 per month depending on the supplier and the particular requirements. Companies like ETS Risk Management highlight the use of armed escorts for high risk situations, which are costlier due to licensing and training.
Event Security or Short-Term Assignments: For one-time events like weddings or concerts, security guards can charge per day or per hour. Rates vary between KSh 1,500 to KSh 5,000 a guard a day depending on whether they are armed or bouncers.
Additional Fees: Some institutions charge customers extra for night shifts, emergency services, or premium technology like CCTV surveillance. For example, Groupten Security Services claims prices are increased when there is a requirement for sophisticated security systems.
Salary Details for Security Guards
Even though clients pay security companies a fee, the guards themselves take a portion of the fee. The median salary for a Nairobi security guard is approximately KSh 31,000 monthly, ranging from KSh 17,833 to KSh 97,000 based on experience and employer. Experienced earners can earn up to KSh 166,000 yearly, but this is uncommon. Guards with early careers (1-4 years) earn approximately KSh 102,000 per year, and mid-career guards (5-9 years) earn approximately KSh 152,941.
However, underpayment remains a worry. X shares some news where clients pay security firms KSh 40,000–50,000 per guard but guards receive KSh 6,000–10,000, leading to demands for fair wage distribution. PSRA‘s directive on the minimum wage aims to address this but enforcement remains a problem.
How to Choose the Best Security Company in Nairobi Kenya
In choosing the security company in Nairobi, consider the following:
1. Reputation and Licensing of the company you want to hire
Verify that the company is registered with the PSRA and that its guards are certified. Reliable companies like Groupten Security Services and Bestcare Security are professional and compliant.
2. Range of Services
Companies offer full service solutions like manned guarding, CCTV, and alarm response, which can provide better value for money.
3. Client Reviews and Personalization
Platforms like google business profile allow you to compare and review services.
Choose an organization that deals with your specific needs, whether for business, home, or events.
4. Cost vs. Quality
Though affordable may be tempting, affordable providers may compromise on training or equipment. Strike a balance between cost and quality so that protection works effectively.
The hiring of a security guard services in Nairobi, Kenya, is a critical security investment, from KSh 15,000 to over KSh 100,000 monthly, based on service level, time frame, and sophistication of expertise required.
The PSRA minimum wages for security guards in Nairobi is KSh 30,000, but considerations like armed status or high tech innovations can drive costs higher.
By choosing a reputable security company in Nairobi and exercising cautious consideration of your needs, you can have a security solution that offers peace of mind as well as value for money. To get detailed price information or browse providers, check at golge searches like google or Bing to request quotes directly from firms.