🛡️ How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Security Guard in Kenya?

A Verified Guide for Homeowners, Businesses, and Event Organizers (2025)

Security is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re safeguarding a gated estate in Syokimau, managing a retail outlet in Nairobi CBD, or hosting a wedding in Kisumu, hiring a security guard offers peace of mind, deterrence, and verified protection. But how much should you expect to pay? This guide breaks down the real costs of hiring security guards in Kenya, what affects pricing, and how to choose the right provider for your needs.

💰 National Snapshot: Average Security Guard Costs in Kenya

These prices reflect verified providers across Balozy’s clusters and are influenced by training, location, shift type, and equipment.

🏙️ City-by-City Breakdown

1. Nairobi

Kenya’s capital has the most diverse security market, with options ranging from freelance guards to elite private firms.

• Residential Estates (e.g., Kilimani, Syokimau, Runda):
  • Day Guard: KSh 30,000/month
  • Night Guard: KSh 35,000/month
  • Armed Guard: KSh 55,000/month
• Retail & Office Security:
  • KSh 28,000–40,000/month depending on hours and location
• Event Security (e.g., weddings, conferences):
  • KSh 3,000–5,000/day per guard

Balozy Tip: Nairobi guards often include mobile patrols, CCTV monitoring, and incident reporting. Ask for a full scope of services.

2. Machakos

Affordable and reliable, Machakos guards are popular for estates, schools, and small businesses.

• Residential (e.g., Mlolongo, Athi River):
  • Day Guard: KSh 25,000–30,000/month
  • Night Guard: KSh 30,000–35,000/month
• School or Church Security:
  • KSh 28,000–32,000/month
• Event Security:
  • KSh 2,500–4,000/day

Balozy Tip: Many guards in Machakos are ex-police or military. Ask for PSRA certification and local references.

3. Mombasa

Coastal security comes with unique challenges—humidity, ferry logistics, and tourist traffic.

• Residential (e.g., Nyali, Bamburi):
  • Day Guard: KSh 28,000–35,000/month
  • Night Guard: KSh 35,000–40,000/month
• Hotel & Beachfront Security:
  • KSh 40,000–55,000/month
  • Includes patrol, guest screening, and access control
• Event Security:
  • KSh 3,000–5,000/day

Balozy Tip: Choose guards with coastal experience—salt air and ferry crossings require specialized protocols.

4. Kisumu

Lake-side security is growing, especially for estates, schools, and events.

• Residential (e.g., Milimani, Manyatta):
  • Day Guard: KSh 25,000–30,000/month
  • Night Guard: KSh 30,000–35,000/month
• Event Security:
  • KSh 2,500–4,000/day
  • Crowd control and gate screening are common add-ons

Balozy Tip: Ask for guards trained in emergency response—especially for lakeside or rural venues.

5. Eldoret

Known for spacious compounds and commercial farms, Eldoret security is often perimeter-focused.

• Residential (e.g., Elgon View, Kapsoya):
  • Day Guard: KSh 25,000–30,000/month
  • Night Guard: KSh 30,000–35,000/month
• Farm & Warehouse Security:
  • KSh 35,000–45,000/month
  • Includes patrol, gate control, and asset protection

Balozy Tip: Ask for fuel and transport breakdowns—rural deployments may include hidden costs.

🧮 What Affects Security Guard Costs?

✅ Shift Type

• Day Guards are cheaper due to lower risk and visibility
• Night Guards earn more due to fatigue, risk, and deterrence value

✅ Armed vs. Unarmed

• Armed guards require vetting, firearm licenses, and tactical training
• Expect KSh 10,000–20,000 more per month

✅ Location

• Nairobi and Mombasa rates are higher due to demand and cost of living
• Rural areas may offer lower rates but higher transport costs

✅ Experience & Certification

• PSRA-certified guards command higher pay
• Ex-military or police backgrounds add KSh 5,000–10,000 premium

✅ Equipment & Uniforms

• Radios, batons, branded uniforms, and boots may be billed separately
• Some firms include these in their quote; others charge KSh 2,000–5,000/month

✅ Company vs. Freelance

• Agencies offer backups, insurance, and supervision
• Freelancers are cheaper but may lack accountability

🛠️ What’s Included in a Security Guard Contract?

Balozy Tip: Always request a written contract with scope, hours, and escalation procedures.

📦 Security for Events: What to Budget

Whether it’s a wedding in Machakos or a concert in Nairobi, event security is priced per day or per shift.

• Small Event (50–100 guests):
  • 2–3 guards
  • KSh 6,000–12,000 total
• Medium Event (100–300 guests):
  • 4–6 guards
  • KSh 12,000–25,000
• Large Event (300+ guests):
  • 8–12 guards
  • KSh 25,000–60,000
  • May include crowd control, bag checks, and VIP escort

Balozy Tip: Book early and confirm arrival time, uniform type, and communication tools.

💡 Smart Ways to Save on Security Costs

1. Bundle Services: Hire guards through Balozy with cleaning or maintenance packages.
2. Use Verified Freelancers: Balozy profiles include ratings, ID checks, and references.
3. Negotiate Relief Coverage: Ensure backup guards are included in monthly rate.
4. Request Site Visit: Let the provider assess your property before quoting.
5. Ask for PSRA License: Avoid unverified guards—risk of liability and poor service.

🧑‍💼 How to Hire a Security Guard on Balozy

• ✅ Browse verified profiles by location and rating
• ✅ Filter by shift type, armed/unarmed, and experience
• ✅ Chat directly via WhatsApp or in-app messaging
• ✅ Request ID, license, and references
• ✅ Confirm contract terms and payment method (M-Pesa, bank transfer)

📍 Regional Price Summary