Graphic Designer Salary in Nairobi City, Kenya
Mid‑level graphic designers in Nairobi receive salaries that reflect local market conditions. Graphic designers are employed by advertising agencies, tech startups, and NGOs. Compensation packages may be affected by housing costs and commuter traffic.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
KSh35,000 to KSh60,000
Average (per year)
KSh47,500
Graduates join advertising agencies, media houses, and startups for their first roles. Starting salaries are set by tech companies and digital marketing firms.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
KSh60,000 to KSh120,000
Average (per year)
KSh90,000
With a few years of experience, designers handle branding for banks, telecoms, and NGOs. Salary can rise when responsibilities expand to include project management.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
KSh120,000 to KSh200,000
Average (per year)
KSh160,000
Senior designers lead teams or oversee major campaigns. Salaries are influenced by the local tech sector and multinational firms.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
KSh200,000+
Principal or lead designers manage creative direction for large organizations or run successful agencies. Compensation at this level may include bonuses and profit sharing.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
KSh500 - KSh1200
per hour
Mid-level
KSh1200 - KSh2500
per hour
Senior
KSh2500 - KSh4000
per hour
Graphic designers in Nairobi earn more than the national average. The difference may be related to factors such as the presence of multinational agencies and living expenses.