Average Salary in Kentucky: Top Cities, Jobs, and Industries in 2025

Kentucky, with its blend of urban development and rural landscapes, has a growing and diversified economy in 2025. From healthcare and education to manufacturing and logistics, the state’s job market offers a wide spectrum of earning opportunities.

This article explores the average salary trends across cities, industries, and high-paying occupations in Kentucky.

Statewide Salary Overview

As of 2025, the average salary in Kentucky is estimated to be around $53,000 per year (roughly $25.50 per hour). However, wages vary greatly depending on industry, education level, and location.

• Top 10% of earners: $90,000+ annually
• Bottom 10%: Around $26,000 annually
• Median salary: Approximately $47,000–$50,000 per year

Top-Paying Cities in Kentucky

Although salaries are lower than national averages in some sectors, certain Kentucky cities offer higher-than-average wages due to growing industries or institutional presence.

City	Avg. Annual Salary
Lexington	$59,800
Louisville	$58,200
Bowling Green	$54,700
Owensboro	$52,900
Florence	$57,300

Highest-Paying Jobs in Kentucky

1. Medical and Healthcare

• Physicians & Surgeons: $200,000–$280,000
• Pharmacists: $125,000
• Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs): $170,000–$190,000

2. Engineering & Technology

• Software Engineers: $95,000–$120,000
• Civil Engineers: $75,000–$90,000
• IT Managers: $100,000+

3. Finance and Business

• Financial Analysts: $70,000–$95,000
• Marketing Managers: $90,000–$110,000
• Human Resource Directors: $80,000–$105,000

4. Skilled Trades and Logistics

• Electricians/Plumbers: $55,000–$75,000
• Heavy Equipment Operators: $60,000–$72,000
• Truck Drivers (OTR): $65,000–$85,000

High-Earning Industries in Kentucky

Manufacturing & Logistics

Kentucky remains a stronghold for automotive and aerospace manufacturing. Logistics hubs in Louisville and Northern Kentucky make these jobs consistently high-paying.

Healthcare

Due to increasing demand and a shortage of skilled professionals, the healthcare sector is booming—especially in metro areas.

Tech & Engineering

Although smaller than in other states, the tech sector is growing, particularly in cities like Lexington and Louisville.

Education & Government

Universities and state jobs offer stability and decent pay, especially in senior academic or administrative roles.

Salary Breakdown by Education Level

Education Level	Avg. Salary
High School Diploma	$34,000–$42,000
Associate Degree	$40,000–$50,000
Bachelor’s Degree	$50,000–$70,000
Graduate Degree	$70,000–$100,000+

Conclusion

In 2025, Kentucky presents solid job prospects across a variety of industries. While not the highest-paying state overall, it offers a good balance between income and cost of living. Fields such as healthcare, engineering, and skilled trades are driving wage growth, and cities like Lexington and Louisville lead in compensation opportunities.

Whether you’re a job-seeker, a graduate, or planning a career switch, Kentucky’s economy continues to reward both technical skills and higher education.

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