Solid waste generation is becoming a bigger issue for the environment and public health, particularly in developing nations. A multistage procedural sampling methodology was used to choose 388 sample households for the study. Using Pearson product moment correlation and descriptive statistics, the data were examined in SPSS version 26. Using data from the American Society for Testing and Materials, this study examined the content and characterisation of MSW in the city of Kano. Three distinct socioeconomic income groups low density (high socioeconomic income group), medium density (middle socioeconomic income group), and high density in the Kano metropolis provided solid waste samples that were gathered and examined. Residential density and waste generation results showed that plastic/polythene and paper waste are the most common types of waste produced, making up a significant portion of the waste stream at 60.9%. Food waste emerged as the main contributor, making up a significant portion of the waste stream at 59.4%. The correlation between income and the amount of solid trash generated indicates that high-income households those with incomes of 250,000 NGN and above produce the greatest amount of solid garbage 7.2–8.6 kg/hh/day and make up about 38% of the sample. Correlation between waste generation and family size, education, and income was found. The study suggested that in order to increase knowledge about responsible waste management practices, recycling, and lowering waste generation, educational initiatives should be implemented with a focus on homes across all income levels.