How Much Does a Caregiver Cost in Nairobi and Kiambu?

"How much will it cost?" is usually the first question families ask — and the honest answer is: it depends on what your loved one needs. Here's how to think about it, and how to avoid surprises.

What affects the cost of home care

• Hours and frequency: a two-hour morning visit three times a week costs far less than daily full-day care
• Day, night or live-in: overnight and live-in care cost more because of the hours involved, but are often better value than many separate visits
• Level of help: companionship and light support cost less than full personal care, lifting and night-time help
• Clinical needs: if your loved one needs a registered nurse for injections, wounds or catheters, that is a separate, higher cost
• Location and travel: visits far from the caregiver's base, or in areas with heavy traffic, may cost more or work better as longer shifts
• Agency or independent: agencies add management and replacement cover — and a margin. Independent caregivers can be more affordable and offer continuity, but you should check references and agree everything in writing

What agencies publish

Prices vary widely and change over time, so treat any figures as a rough guide only. One Nairobi agency, for example, publishes indicative ranges of roughly KES 500–800 per hour for basic companionship care and KES 1,000–2,000 per hour for elderly care, with nursing care higher (Bestcare). A 2026 report on Nairobi's elder-care sector put monthly fees at established agencies at around KES 45,000–80,000 (Streamline Feed).

Questions to ask before agreeing a price

• What exactly is included — and what isn't?
• Are transport, meals or overnight allowances extra?
• What happens if the caregiver is sick or needs a day off?
• How much notice is needed to cancel or change visits?
• How and when is payment made?

Getting the most from your budget

• Start with the times of day that matter most — often mornings (washing, breakfast, medicines) and evenings
• Combine family help with paid care: for example, a caregiver on weekdays and relatives at weekends
• Use a nurse only for clinical tasks, and a caregiver for everything in between
• Review after a month: needs often change after recovery

Get a clear quote

I give every family a clear rate in writing after a short conversation about the person's needs, schedule and location — with no hidden charges. Request a care conversation.