May 2025 BLS wages
Career salaries
in Kentucky.
Compare published state estimates, then investigate the work, training route and local living costs.
Pay is measured for the BLS occupation named in each row, across experience levels and industries. It excludes self-employed workers. These are not school outcomes or promised entry-level wages.
Published occupational wage estimates
| BLS occupation and career links | Annual median | Hourly median | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Equipment OperatorsSOC 45-2091Agricultural Equipment Operators → | $42,000 | $20.19 | 190 |
| Agricultural Sciences Teachers, PostsecondarySOC 25-1041Agricultural Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary → | $84,100 | Not published | 200 |
| Air Traffic ControllersSOC 53-2021Air Traffic Controllers → | $127,800 | $61.44 | 230 |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service TechniciansSOC 49-3011Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians → | $67,920 | $32.65 | 1,680 |
| Airfield Operations SpecialistsSOC 53-2022Airfield Operations Specialists → | $123,290 | $59.27 | 290 |
| Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight EngineersSOC 53-2011Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers → | $350,950 | Not published | 6,260 |
| Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical TechniciansSOC 53-3011Ambulance Drivers and Attendants, Except Emergency Medical Technicians → | $32,850 | $15.79 | 130 |
| Animal CaretakersSOC 39-2021Animal Caretakers → | $30,720 | $14.77 | 6,140 |
| Animal TrainersSOC 39-2011Animal Trainers → | $34,030 | $16.36 | 470 |
| Architectural and Civil DraftersSOC 17-3011Architectural and Civil Drafters → | $60,120 | $28.91 | 870 |
| Athletic TrainersSOC 29-9091Athletic Trainers → | $60,680 | Not published | 720 |
| Audiovisual Equipment Installers and RepairersSOC 49-2097Audiovisual Equipment Installers and Repairers → | $48,380 | $23.26 | 180 |
| Automotive Body and Related RepairersSOC 49-3021Automotive Body and Related Repairers → | $46,080 | $22.15 | 1,680 |
| Automotive Glass Installers and RepairersSOC 49-3022Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers → | $45,980 | $22.10 | 180 |
| Automotive Service Technicians and MechanicsSOC 49-3023Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics → | $44,890 | $21.58 | 11,140 |
| Avionics TechniciansSOC 49-2091Avionics Technicians → | $42,440 | $20.40 | Not published |
| BakersSOC 51-3011Bakers → | $33,890 | $16.29 | 1,630 |
| BartendersSOC 35-3011Bartenders → | $28,780 | $13.84 | 6,870 |
| BoilermakersSOC 47-2011Boilermakers → | $74,810 | $35.97 | 150 |
| Brickmasons and BlockmasonsSOC 47-2021Brickmasons and Blockmasons → | $59,820 | $28.76 | 780 |
| Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine SpecialistsSOC 49-3031Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists → | $55,480 | $26.67 | 3,890 |
| Bus Drivers, SchoolSOC 53-3051Bus Drivers, School → | $44,830 | $21.55 | 6,820 |
| Bus Drivers, Transit and IntercitySOC 53-3052Bus Drivers, Transit and Intercity → | $54,550 | $26.22 | 2,570 |
| Business Operations Specialists, All OtherSOC 13-1199Business Continuity Planners →Business Operations Specialists, All Other →Online Merchants →Security Management Specialists →Sustainability Specialists → | $74,690 | $35.91 | 5,870 |
| Business Teachers, PostsecondarySOC 25-1011Business Teachers, Postsecondary → | $80,140 | Not published | 760 |
| Butchers and Meat CuttersSOC 51-3021Butchers and Meat Cutters → | $35,430 | $17.03 | 1,670 |
| Buyers and Purchasing AgentsSOC 13-1020Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products → | $65,240 | $31.36 | 5,440 |
| Cabinetmakers and Bench CarpentersSOC 51-7011Cabinetmakers and Bench Carpenters → | $40,440 | $19.44 | 920 |
| Calibration Technologists and TechniciansSOC 17-3028Calibration Technologists and Technicians → | $55,650 | $26.75 | 90 |
| Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water VesselsSOC 53-5021Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels → | Not published | Not published | 1,060 |
| Cardiovascular Technologists and TechniciansSOC 29-2031Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians → | $60,980 | $29.32 | 940 |
| Career/Technical Education Teachers, PostsecondarySOC 25-1194Career/Technical Education Teachers, Postsecondary → | $61,080 | $29.37 | 1,560 |
| CarpentersSOC 47-2031Carpenters → | $52,680 | $25.33 | 8,540 |
| Carpet InstallersSOC 47-2041Carpet Installers → | $37,800 | $18.17 | 130 |
| Cartographers and PhotogrammetristsSOC 17-1021Cartographers and Photogrammetrists → | $71,470 | $34.36 | 90 |
| Cement Masons and Concrete FinishersSOC 47-2051Cement Masons and Concrete Finishers → | $50,200 | $24.14 | 1,280 |
| Chefs and Head CooksSOC 35-1011Chefs and Head Cooks → | $48,070 | $23.11 | 1,790 |
| Civil Engineering Technologists and TechniciansSOC 17-3022Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians → | $59,710 | $28.71 | 1,860 |
| Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and InvestigatorsSOC 13-1031Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators → | $73,840 | $35.50 | 3,670 |
| Clinical Laboratory Technologists and TechniciansSOC 29-2010Cytogenetic Technologists →Cytotechnologists →Histology Technicians →Histotechnologists →Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technicians →Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists → | $60,880 | $29.27 | 4,860 |
| Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and TendersSOC 51-9124Coating, Painting, and Spraying Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders → | $47,170 | $22.68 | 2,190 |
| Commercial and Industrial DesignersSOC 27-1021Commercial and Industrial Designers → | $76,100 | $36.59 | 420 |
| Commercial DiversSOC 49-9092Commercial Divers → | $63,550 | $30.55 | Not published |
| Commercial PilotsSOC 53-2012Commercial Pilots → | $129,990 | Not published | 800 |
| Community Health WorkersSOC 21-1094Community Health Workers → | $48,230 | $23.19 | 980 |
| Compliance OfficersSOC 13-1041Compliance Officers →Coroners →Customs Brokers →Environmental Compliance Inspectors →Equal Opportunity Representatives and Officers →Government Property Inspectors and Investigators →Regulatory Affairs Specialists → | $69,240 | $33.29 | 4,360 |
| Computer and Information Systems ManagersSOC 11-3021Computer and Information Systems Managers → | $140,360 | $67.48 | 3,130 |
| Computer Network ArchitectsSOC 15-1241Computer Network Architects →Telecommunications Engineering Specialists → | $103,740 | $49.87 | 1,710 |
| Computer Network Support SpecialistsSOC 15-1231Computer Network Support Specialists → | Not published | Not published | 1,720 |
| Computer Numerically Controlled Tool OperatorsSOC 51-9161Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Operators → | $49,180 | $23.64 | 1,740 |
| Computer Numerically Controlled Tool ProgrammersSOC 51-9162Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers → | $64,980 | $31.24 | 230 |
| Computer Occupations, All OtherSOC 15-1299Blockchain Engineers →Computer Occupations, All Other →Computer Systems Engineers/Architects →Digital Forensics Analysts →Document Management Specialists →Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians →Information Security Engineers →Information Technology Project Managers →Penetration Testers →Web Administrators → | $89,420 | $42.99 | 1,850 |
| Computer ProgrammersSOC 15-1251Computer Programmers → | $94,850 | $45.60 | 950 |
| Computer Science Teachers, PostsecondarySOC 25-1021Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary → | $83,470 | Not published | 310 |
| Computer Systems AnalystsSOC 15-1211Computer Systems Analysts →Health Informatics Specialists → | $95,090 | $45.72 | 5,930 |
| Computer User Support SpecialistsSOC 15-1232Computer User Support Specialists → | $57,850 | $27.81 | 9,460 |
| Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine RepairersSOC 49-2011Computer, Automated Teller, and Office Machine Repairers → | $47,070 | $22.63 | 1,440 |
| Construction and Building InspectorsSOC 47-4011Construction and Building Inspectors →Energy Auditors → | $60,200 | $28.94 | 1,380 |
| Construction ManagersSOC 11-9021Construction Managers → | $97,020 | $46.64 | 2,990 |
| Continuous Mining Machine OperatorsSOC 47-5041Continuous Mining Machine Operators → | $50,020 | $24.05 | 390 |
| Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical DoorSOC 49-9012Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door → | $61,450 | $29.54 | 450 |
| Cooks, Institution and CafeteriaSOC 35-2012Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria → | $31,550 | $15.17 | 11,540 |
| Cooks, RestaurantSOC 35-2014Cooks, Restaurant → | $34,640 | $16.65 | 13,510 |
| Cost EstimatorsSOC 13-1051Cost Estimators → | $74,880 | $36.00 | 1,960 |
| Crane and Tower OperatorsSOC 53-7021Crane and Tower Operators → | $62,000 | $29.81 | 640 |
| Crematory OperatorsSOC 39-4012Crematory Operators → | $37,740 | $18.15 | 50 |
| Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4031Cutting, Punching, and Press Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $45,760 | $22.00 | 7,290 |
| Data Entry KeyersSOC 43-9021Data Entry Keyers → | $36,870 | $17.72 | 2,020 |
| Data ScientistsSOC 15-2051Business Intelligence Analysts →Clinical Data Managers →Data Scientists → | $91,760 | $44.12 | 1,540 |
| Database AdministratorsSOC 15-1242Database Administrators → | $87,390 | $42.02 | 650 |
| Database ArchitectsSOC 15-1243Data Warehousing Specialists →Database Architects → | $125,400 | $60.29 | 350 |
| Dental AssistantsSOC 31-9091Dental Assistants → | $47,730 | $22.95 | 4,530 |
| Dental HygienistsSOC 29-1292Dental Hygienists → | $78,830 | $37.90 | 2,070 |
| Dental Laboratory TechniciansSOC 51-9081Dental Laboratory Technicians → | $46,770 | $22.48 | 420 |
| Diagnostic Medical SonographersSOC 29-2032Diagnostic Medical Sonographers → | $91,230 | $43.86 | 940 |
| Dietetic TechniciansSOC 29-2051Dietetic Technicians → | $28,970 | $13.93 | 430 |
| Drafters, All OtherSOC 17-3019Drafters, All Other → | $57,930 | $27.85 | 50 |
| Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4032Drilling and Boring Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $51,740 | $24.87 | Not published |
| Drywall and Ceiling Tile InstallersSOC 47-2081Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installers → | $48,340 | $23.24 | 490 |
| Earth Drillers, Except Oil and GasSOC 47-5023Earth Drillers, Except Oil and Gas → | $56,160 | $27.00 | 80 |
| Education Administrators, PostsecondarySOC 11-9033Education Administrators, Postsecondary → | $114,310 | $54.96 | 890 |
| Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related RepairersSOC 49-2092Electric Motor, Power Tool, and Related Repairers → | $48,900 | $23.51 | 280 |
| Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and TechniciansSOC 17-3023Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians → | $64,120 | $30.83 | 1,060 |
| Electrical and Electronics DraftersSOC 17-3012Electrical and Electronics Drafters → | $79,050 | $38.01 | 80 |
| Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial EquipmentSOC 49-2094Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment → | $62,980 | $30.28 | 630 |
| Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and RelaySOC 49-2095Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay → | $98,860 | $47.53 | 130 |
| Electrical Power-Line Installers and RepairersSOC 49-9051Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers → | $77,020 | $37.03 | 2,930 |
| ElectriciansSOC 47-2111Electricians → | $59,720 | $28.71 | 11,030 |
| Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and TechniciansSOC 17-3024Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians →Robotics Technicians → | $65,270 | $31.38 | 70 |
| Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor VehiclesSOC 49-2096Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles → | $64,570 | $31.05 | 40 |
| Elevator and Escalator Installers and RepairersSOC 47-4021Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers → | $42,670 | $20.51 | Not published |
| EmbalmersSOC 39-4011Embalmers → | $49,860 | $23.97 | 280 |
| Emergency Medical TechniciansSOC 29-2042Emergency Medical Technicians → | $36,800 | $17.69 | 2,770 |
| Engine and Other Machine AssemblersSOC 51-2031Engine and Other Machine Assemblers → | $41,580 | $19.99 | 1,180 |
| Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All OtherSOC 17-3029Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other →Non-Destructive Testing Specialists →Photonics Technicians → | $65,660 | $31.57 | 380 |
| Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except GamblingSOC 11-9072Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling → | $80,130 | $38.52 | 300 |
| Environmental Engineering Technologists and TechniciansSOC 17-3025Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians → | $61,470 | $29.55 | 200 |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including HealthSOC 19-4042Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health → | $46,840 | $22.52 | 560 |
| Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface MiningSOC 47-5022Excavating and Loading Machine and Dragline Operators, Surface Mining → | $47,780 | $22.97 | 790 |
| Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and BlastersSOC 47-5032Explosives Workers, Ordnance Handling Experts, and Blasters → | $50,360 | $24.21 | 380 |
| Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4021Extruding and Drawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $50,000 | $24.04 | 1,400 |
| Facilities ManagersSOC 11-3013Facilities Managers →Security Managers → | $100,720 | $48.42 | 1,070 |
| Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service TechniciansSOC 49-3041Farm Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians → | $48,970 | $23.54 | 800 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction WorkersSOC 47-1011First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers →Solar Energy Installation Managers → | $73,490 | $35.33 | 9,620 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving WorkersSOC 35-1012First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers → | $35,810 | $17.21 | 18,010 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services WorkersSOC 39-1013First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services Workers → | $57,830 | $27.80 | 50 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial WorkersSOC 37-1011First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers → | $45,860 | $22.05 | 2,920 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and RepairersSOC 49-1011First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers → | $76,760 | $36.91 | 10,020 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support WorkersSOC 43-1011First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers → | $63,180 | $30.38 | 19,670 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service WorkersSOC 39-1022First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers → | $41,490 | $19.95 | 840 |
| First-Line Supervisors of Transportation and Material Moving Workers, Except Aircraft Cargo Handling SupervisorsSOC 53-1047First-Line Supervisors of Material-Moving Machine and Vehicle Operators →First-Line Supervisors of Passenger Attendants →First-Line Supervisors of Transportation Workers, All Other → | $60,090 | $28.89 | 10,180 |
| Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard TilesSOC 47-2042Floor Layers, Except Carpet, Wood, and Hard Tiles → | $50,380 | $24.22 | 390 |
| Floor Sanders and FinishersSOC 47-2043Floor Sanders and Finishers → | $54,580 | $26.24 | Not published |
| Food Scientists and TechnologistsSOC 19-1012Food Scientists and Technologists → | $98,710 | $47.46 | 170 |
| Food Service ManagersSOC 11-9051Food Service Managers → | $70,410 | $33.85 | 1,680 |
| Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4022Forging Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $36,110 | $17.36 | Not published |
| Foundry Mold and CoremakersSOC 51-4071Foundry Mold and Coremakers → | $43,610 | $20.97 | Not published |
| Funeral Home ManagersSOC 11-9171Funeral Home Managers → | $47,040 | $22.62 | 400 |
| Furniture FinishersSOC 51-7021Furniture Finishers → | $42,950 | $20.65 | 50 |
| Gambling Cage WorkersSOC 43-3041Gambling Cage Workers → | $34,860 | $16.76 | 110 |
| Gambling ManagersSOC 11-9071Gambling Managers → | $105,340 | $50.64 | 30 |
| Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling InvestigatorsSOC 33-9031Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators → | $36,330 | $17.46 | 90 |
| Gas Plant OperatorsSOC 51-8092Gas Plant Operators → | $63,070 | $30.32 | 200 |
| General and Operations ManagersSOC 11-1021General and Operations Managers → | $79,370 | $38.16 | 52,100 |
| Genetic CounselorsSOC 29-9092Genetic Counselors → | $99,770 | $47.97 | 50 |
| Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic TechniciansSOC 19-4043Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians → | $49,840 | $23.96 | 60 |
| GlaziersSOC 47-2121Glaziers → | $49,110 | $23.61 | 570 |
| Graphic DesignersSOC 27-1024Graphic Designers → | $52,960 | $25.46 | 2,060 |
| Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4033Grinding, Lapping, Polishing, and Buffing Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $49,160 | $23.63 | 850 |
| Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and CosmetologistsSOC 39-5012Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists → | $29,840 | $14.35 | 2,350 |
| Hazardous Materials Removal WorkersSOC 47-4041Hazardous Materials Removal Workers → | $47,640 | $22.91 | 460 |
| Health Education SpecialistsSOC 21-1091Health Education Specialists → | $65,370 | $31.43 | 760 |
| Health Information Technologists and Medical RegistrarsSOC 29-9021Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars → | $49,330 | $23.71 | 1,320 |
| Health Specialties Teachers, PostsecondarySOC 25-1071Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary → | $83,680 | Not published | 1,380 |
| Health Technologists and Technicians, All OtherSOC 29-2099Health Technologists and Technicians, All Other →Neurodiagnostic Technologists →Ophthalmic Medical Technologists →Patient Representatives → | $49,410 | $23.76 | 1,940 |
| Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Workers, All OtherSOC 29-9099Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Workers, All Other →Midwives → | $91,560 | $44.02 | 190 |
| Healthcare Support Workers, All OtherSOC 31-9099Endoscopy Technicians →Healthcare Support Workers, All Other →Speech-Language Pathology Assistants → | $46,020 | $22.13 | 770 |
| Hearing Aid SpecialistsSOC 29-2092Hearing Aid Specialists → | $75,200 | $36.15 | 100 |
| Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4191Heat Treating Equipment Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $47,090 | $22.64 | 340 |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and InstallersSOC 49-9021Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers → | $58,620 | $28.18 | 5,100 |
| Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck DriversSOC 53-3032Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers → | $56,340 | $27.09 | 31,760 |
| Highway Maintenance WorkersSOC 47-4051Highway Maintenance Workers → | $40,400 | $19.42 | 3,030 |
| Home Appliance RepairersSOC 49-9031Home Appliance Repairers → | $49,710 | $23.90 | 200 |
| Home Health and Personal Care AidesSOC 31-1120Home Health Aides →Personal Care Aides → | $36,440 | $17.52 | 31,260 |
| Industrial Engineering Technologists and TechniciansSOC 17-3026Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians →Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians → | $61,140 | $29.40 | 1,330 |
| Industrial Machinery MechanicsSOC 49-9041Industrial Machinery Mechanics → | $64,560 | $31.04 | 11,540 |
| Industrial Truck and Tractor OperatorsSOC 53-7051Industrial Truck and Tractor Operators → | $46,630 | $22.42 | 11,270 |
| Information Security AnalystsSOC 15-1212Information Security Analysts → | $103,630 | $49.82 | 1,680 |
| Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and WeighersSOC 51-9061Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers → | $46,280 | $22.25 | 12,880 |
| Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All OtherSOC 49-9099Geothermal Technicians →Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other → | $51,310 | $24.67 | 1,110 |
| Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and WallSOC 47-2131Insulation Workers, Floor, Ceiling, and Wall → | $49,730 | $23.91 | 400 |
| Insulation Workers, MechanicalSOC 47-2132Insulation Workers, Mechanical → | $46,150 | $22.19 | Not published |
| Insurance Appraisers, Auto DamageSOC 13-1032Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage → | $97,950 | $47.09 | Not published |
| Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal WorkersSOC 51-9071Gem and Diamond Workers →Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers → | $47,090 | $22.64 | 320 |
| Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4034Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $47,060 | $22.62 | 250 |
| Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational NursesSOC 29-2061Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses → | $60,460 | $29.07 | 8,570 |
| Light Truck DriversSOC 53-3033Light Truck Drivers → | $43,230 | $20.78 | 15,630 |
| Locksmiths and Safe RepairersSOC 49-9094Locksmiths and Safe Repairers → | $51,120 | $24.58 | 120 |
| Locomotive EngineersSOC 53-4011Locomotive Engineers → | $77,620 | $37.32 | 540 |
| Lodging ManagersSOC 11-9081Lodging Managers → | $59,440 | $28.58 | Not published |
| Logging Equipment OperatorsSOC 45-4022Logging Equipment Operators → | $30,230 | $14.53 | 300 |
| MachinistsSOC 51-4041Machinists → | $58,660 | $28.20 | 6,040 |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging TechnologistsSOC 29-2035Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists → | $82,200 | $39.52 | 650 |
| Maintenance and Repair Workers, GeneralSOC 49-9071Maintenance and Repair Workers, General → | $46,810 | $22.50 | 22,190 |
| Maintenance Workers, MachinerySOC 49-9043Maintenance Workers, Machinery → | $76,710 | $36.88 | 2,920 |
| Managers, All OtherSOC 11-9199Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers →Compliance Managers →Loss Prevention Managers →Managers, All Other →Regulatory Affairs Managers →Wind Energy Development Managers →Wind Energy Operations Managers → | $122,930 | $59.10 | 2,390 |
| Manicurists and PedicuristsSOC 39-5092Manicurists and Pedicurists → | $45,310 | $21.79 | 240 |
| Manufactured Building and Mobile Home InstallersSOC 49-9095Manufactured Building and Mobile Home Installers → | $34,770 | $16.72 | Not published |
| Massage TherapistsSOC 31-9011Massage Therapists → | $59,790 | $28.75 | 780 |
| Material Moving Workers, All OtherSOC 53-7199Material Moving Workers, All Other → | $57,550 | $27.67 | 190 |
| Mechanical DraftersSOC 17-3013Mechanical Drafters → | $68,880 | $33.12 | 510 |
| Mechanical Engineering Technologists and TechniciansSOC 17-3027Automotive Engineering Technicians →Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians → | $77,990 | $37.49 | 520 |
| Medical and Health Services ManagersSOC 11-9111Medical and Health Services Managers → | $103,450 | $49.74 | 8,600 |
| Medical AssistantsSOC 31-9092Medical Assistants → | $39,270 | $18.88 | 13,440 |
| Medical Equipment PreparersSOC 31-9093Medical Equipment Preparers → | $46,880 | $22.54 | 1,120 |
| Medical Equipment RepairersSOC 49-9062Medical Equipment Repairers → | $60,230 | $28.96 | 860 |
| Medical Records SpecialistsSOC 29-2072Medical Records Specialists → | $48,410 | $23.28 | 4,210 |
| Medical Secretaries and Administrative AssistantsSOC 43-6013Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants → | $38,750 | $18.63 | 26,430 |
| Medical TranscriptionistsSOC 31-9094Medical Transcriptionists → | $39,000 | $18.75 | 690 |
| Meeting, Convention, and Event PlannersSOC 13-1121Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners → | $49,280 | $23.69 | 1,110 |
| Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All OtherSOC 51-4199Metal Workers and Plastic Workers, All Other → | $61,320 | $29.48 | 200 |
| Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4035Milling and Planing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $66,440 | $31.94 | 540 |
| MillwrightsSOC 49-9044Millwrights → | $70,610 | $33.95 | 1,220 |
| Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except EnginesSOC 49-3042Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanics, Except Engines → | $59,220 | $28.47 | 2,540 |
| Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral ArrangersSOC 39-4031Morticians, Undertakers, and Funeral Arrangers → | $43,320 | $20.83 | 470 |
| Motorboat Mechanics and Service TechniciansSOC 49-3051Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians → | $50,920 | $24.48 | 360 |
| Motorcycle MechanicsSOC 49-3052Motorcycle Mechanics → | $48,220 | $23.18 | 200 |
| Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4081Multiple Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $54,960 | $26.42 | 5,510 |
| Network and Computer Systems AdministratorsSOC 15-1244Network and Computer Systems Administrators → | $87,020 | $41.84 | 2,800 |
| Nuclear Medicine TechnologistsSOC 29-2033Nuclear Medicine Technologists → | $95,470 | $45.90 | 270 |
| Nursing AssistantsSOC 31-1131Nursing Assistants → | $38,370 | $18.45 | 23,410 |
| Nursing Instructors and Teachers, PostsecondarySOC 25-1072Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary → | $71,920 | Not published | 1,130 |
| Occupational Health and Safety SpecialistsSOC 19-5011Occupational Health and Safety Specialists → | $83,730 | $40.25 | 2,480 |
| Occupational Health and Safety TechniciansSOC 19-5012Occupational Health and Safety Technicians → | $61,120 | $29.38 | 650 |
| Occupational Therapy AssistantsSOC 31-2011Occupational Therapy Assistants → | $65,230 | $31.36 | 500 |
| Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment OperatorsSOC 47-2073Operating Engineers and Other Construction Equipment Operators → | $57,780 | $27.78 | 7,050 |
| Ophthalmic Laboratory TechniciansSOC 51-9083Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians → | $36,650 | $17.62 | 610 |
| Ophthalmic Medical TechniciansSOC 29-2057Ophthalmic Medical Technicians → | $38,990 | $18.75 | 1,570 |
| Opticians, DispensingSOC 29-2081Opticians, Dispensing → | $44,290 | $21.29 | 950 |
| Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine MechanicsSOC 49-3053Outdoor Power Equipment and Other Small Engine Mechanics → | $43,110 | $20.72 | 500 |
| Painters, Construction and MaintenanceSOC 47-2141Painters, Construction and Maintenance → | $48,110 | $23.13 | 1,390 |
| ParamedicsSOC 29-2043Paramedics → | $49,890 | $23.99 | 1,800 |
| Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment OperatorsSOC 47-2071Paving, Surfacing, and Tamping Equipment Operators → | $45,660 | $21.95 | 110 |
| Pharmacy TechniciansSOC 29-2052Pharmacy Technicians → | $39,200 | $18.84 | 8,870 |
| PhlebotomistsSOC 31-9097Phlebotomists → | $42,480 | $20.42 | 2,500 |
| Physical Therapist AidesSOC 31-2022Physical Therapist Aides → | $35,490 | $17.06 | 160 |
| Physical Therapist AssistantsSOC 31-2021Physical Therapist Assistants → | $61,480 | $29.56 | 2,580 |
| Physical TherapistsSOC 29-1123Physical Therapists → | $100,710 | $48.42 | 3,390 |
| Physician AssistantsSOC 29-1071Anesthesiologist Assistants →Physician Assistants → | $120,760 | $58.06 | 1,360 |
| Plumbers, Pipefitters, and SteamfittersSOC 47-2152Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters →Solar Thermal Installers and Technicians → | $64,160 | $30.84 | 6,360 |
| Postsecondary Teachers, All OtherSOC 25-1199Postsecondary Teachers, All Other → | $67,690 | Not published | 4,120 |
| Power Plant OperatorsSOC 51-8013Biomass Plant Technicians →Hydroelectric Plant Technicians →Power Plant Operators → | $93,400 | $44.90 | 690 |
| Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All OtherSOC 49-9069Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other → | $66,410 | $31.93 | 80 |
| Project Management SpecialistsSOC 13-1082Project Management Specialists → | $81,700 | $39.28 | 10,250 |
| Psychiatric AidesSOC 31-1133Psychiatric Aides → | $38,610 | $18.56 | 250 |
| Psychiatric TechniciansSOC 29-2053Psychiatric Technicians → | $40,370 | $19.41 | 910 |
| Radiation TherapistsSOC 29-1124Radiation Therapists → | $97,760 | $47.00 | 170 |
| Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and RepairersSOC 49-2021Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers → | $49,840 | $23.96 | 90 |
| Radiologic Technologists and TechniciansSOC 29-2034Radiologic Technologists and Technicians → | $69,670 | $33.50 | 3,630 |
| Rail Car RepairersSOC 49-3043Rail Car Repairers → | $59,430 | $28.57 | 770 |
| Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and HostlersSOC 53-4013Rail Yard Engineers, Dinkey Operators, and Hostlers → | $62,070 | $29.84 | 110 |
| Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment OperatorsSOC 47-4061Rail-Track Laying and Maintenance Equipment Operators → | $73,120 | $35.16 | 270 |
| Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive FirersSOC 53-4022Railroad Brake, Signal, and Switch Operators and Locomotive Firers → | $56,410 | $27.12 | 170 |
| Railroad Conductors and YardmastersSOC 53-4031Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters → | $52,380 | $25.18 | 110 |
| Receptionists and Information ClerksSOC 43-4171Receptionists and Information Clerks → | $32,940 | $15.84 | 9,290 |
| Recreational TherapistsSOC 29-1125Recreational Therapists → | $59,240 | $28.48 | 100 |
| Recreational Vehicle Service TechniciansSOC 49-3092Recreational Vehicle Service Technicians → | $47,800 | $22.98 | 200 |
| Registered NursesSOC 29-1141Acute Care Nurses →Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses →Clinical Nurse Specialists →Critical Care Nurses →Registered Nurses → | $81,040 | $38.96 | 50,300 |
| Respiratory TherapistsSOC 29-1126Respiratory Therapists → | $72,750 | $34.98 | 2,530 |
| Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and PlasticSOC 51-4023Rolling Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic → | $50,400 | $24.23 | 1,120 |
| RoofersSOC 47-2181Roofers → | $46,940 | $22.57 | 1,080 |
| Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and GasSOC 47-5012Rotary Drill Operators, Oil and Gas → | $38,520 | $18.52 | 30 |
| Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, WoodSOC 51-7041Sawing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Wood → | $36,810 | $17.70 | 1,050 |
| Security and Fire Alarm Systems InstallersSOC 49-2098Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers → | $60,700 | $29.18 | 1,080 |
| Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe CleanersSOC 47-4071Septic Tank Servicers and Sewer Pipe Cleaners → | $43,980 | $21.15 | 280 |
| Service Unit Operators, Oil and GasSOC 47-5013Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas → | $28,280 | $13.60 | 210 |
| Sheet Metal WorkersSOC 47-2211Sheet Metal Workers → | $60,680 | $29.17 | 2,210 |
| Ship EngineersSOC 53-5031Ship Engineers → | $120,550 | $57.96 | Not published |
| Shuttle Drivers and ChauffeursSOC 53-3053Shuttle Drivers and Chauffeurs → | $33,580 | $16.14 | 2,630 |
| Signal and Track Switch RepairersSOC 49-9097Signal and Track Switch Repairers → | $75,870 | $36.48 | 60 |
| Skincare SpecialistsSOC 39-5094Skincare Specialists → | $38,580 | $18.55 | 830 |
| Slaughterers and Meat PackersSOC 51-3023Slaughterers and Meat Packers → | $38,330 | $18.43 | 320 |
| Software DevelopersSOC 15-1252Software Developers → | $109,010 | $52.41 | 7,660 |
| Software Quality Assurance Analysts and TestersSOC 15-1253Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers → | $79,100 | $38.03 | 890 |
| Sound Engineering TechniciansSOC 27-4014Sound Engineering Technicians → | $74,100 | $35.62 | 60 |
| Special Effects Artists and AnimatorsSOC 27-1014Special Effects Artists and Animators → | $50,970 | $24.51 | 40 |
| Structural Iron and Steel WorkersSOC 47-2221Structural Iron and Steel Workers → | $64,060 | $30.80 | 990 |
| Structural Metal Fabricators and FittersSOC 51-2041Structural Metal Fabricators and Fitters → | $55,250 | $26.56 | 450 |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health CounselorsSOC 21-1018Mental Health Counselors → | $54,190 | $26.05 | 7,690 |
| Surgical AssistantsSOC 29-9093Surgical Assistants → | $84,600 | $40.67 | 480 |
| Surgical TechnologistsSOC 29-2055Surgical Technologists → | $60,490 | $29.08 | 1,440 |
| Surveying and Mapping TechniciansSOC 17-3031Surveying and Mapping Technicians → | $46,050 | $22.14 | 920 |
| SurveyorsSOC 17-1022Geodetic Surveyors →Surveyors → | $71,840 | $34.54 | 670 |
| Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line InstallersSOC 49-2022Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers → | $59,700 | $28.70 | 2,210 |
| Telecommunications Line Installers and RepairersSOC 49-9052Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers → | $64,010 | $30.77 | 1,870 |
| Tile and Stone SettersSOC 47-2044Tile and Stone Setters → | $47,380 | $22.78 | 180 |
| Tool and Die MakersSOC 51-4111Tool and Die Makers → | $66,570 | $32.00 | 1,900 |
| Tool Grinders, Filers, and SharpenersSOC 51-4194Tool Grinders, Filers, and Sharpeners → | $44,170 | $21.23 | 50 |
| Tour and Travel GuidesSOC 39-7010Travel Guides → | $36,070 | $17.34 | 1,010 |
| Transportation, Storage, and Distribution ManagersSOC 11-3071Supply Chain Managers →Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers → | $100,340 | $48.24 | 2,340 |
| UpholsterersSOC 51-6093Upholsterers → | $41,690 | $20.04 | 80 |
| Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal CaretakersSOC 31-9096Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers → | $34,140 | $16.41 | 1,840 |
| Veterinary Technologists and TechniciansSOC 29-2056Veterinary Technologists and Technicians → | $39,590 | $19.03 | 1,670 |
| Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System OperatorsSOC 51-8031Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators → | $45,430 | $21.84 | 2,540 |
| Web and Digital Interface DesignersSOC 15-1255Video Game Designers →Web and Digital Interface Designers → | $77,000 | $37.02 | 590 |
| Web DevelopersSOC 15-1254Web Developers → | $82,630 | $39.73 | 270 |
| Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and BrazersSOC 51-4121Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers → | $51,470 | $24.74 | 6,630 |
| Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and TendersSOC 51-4122Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders → | $50,740 | $24.39 | 1,000 |
| Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except SawingSOC 51-7042Woodworking Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Except Sawing → | $38,080 | $18.31 | 1,320 |
| Word Processors and TypistsSOC 43-9022Word Processors and Typists → | Not published | Not published | 160 |
Source: BLS May 2025 OEWS. Employment estimates are rounded and may be suppressed. “+” means the wage is at or above BLS’s reporting threshold ($239,200/year or $115/hour), not an exact estimate. Unavailable values remain unavailable. Occupations with no published state series are omitted. How to interpret wages.
Living costs & local context
Budget context for Kentucky
Median monthly gross rent$9672020–2024 ACS · 2024 dollars · margin of error ±$5
Median household income$63,7262020–2024 ACS · 2024 dollars · margin of error ±$429
Resident population estimate4,534,8242020–2024 ACS
Kentucky price level90.2BEA regional price parity · 2024 · US = 100
Gross rent combines contract rent with the estimated average monthly cost of tenant-paid utilities and fuels. It describes occupied rental housing, not current asking rents, student accommodation or the cost of a room in a shared home. Household income is not an individual worker’s salary.
The state price index compares the overall price of goods and services with the national average. An index of 90.2 is approximately 9.8% below the national price level. It is context for planning, not a multiplier for a personal budget or a cost-adjusted salary.
Sources: 2024 ACS five-year public summary files, tables B25064, B19013 and B01003; BEA 2024 regional price parities. Retrieved September 9, 2026. Census place matches use a unique name within a state; school postal cities and Census boundaries are not interchangeable. Unavailable estimates are omitted.
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