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United States · Kentucky · Pay by job

Highest paying jobs in Kentucky after tax

Of the jobs with an exact median in Kentucky, cardiologist pays most: $558,180 a year, and a single filer keeps about $357,508 after federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare and Kentucky tax.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025. Take-home for 2026, single filer, from our Kentucky paycheck calculator.

Which 25 jobs pay best after tax in Kentucky?

The 25 best-paid jobs in Kentucky after tax
RankJobMedian payTake-home
1 Cardiologist $558,180 $357,508
2 Airline Pilot $350,950 $234,931
3 Anesthesiologist $347,960 $233,163
4 Neurologist $338,850 $227,774
5 Other Physician $327,390 $220,996
6 Pathologist $324,390 $219,221
7 Obstetrician and Gynecologist $317,110 $214,915
8 Radiologist $279,990 $192,958
9 Family Medicine Physician $248,730 $173,760
10 Internal Medicine Physician $241,530 $169,285
11 Psychiatrist $237,770 $166,949
12 Nurse Anesthetist $222,520 $157,471
13 Podiatrist $201,260 $142,928
14 Dermatologist $195,830 $139,082
15 Physicist $180,910 $128,704
16 Chief Executive $179,530 $127,809
17 General Pediatrician $175,690 $125,319
18 Emergency Medicine Physician $169,390 $121,233
19 Other Surgeon $162,160 $116,544
20 Judge and Magistrate $150,650 $109,080
21 Other Psychologist $149,990 $108,652
22 Engineering Manager $147,680 $107,154
23 Law Professor $140,820 $102,705
24 IT Manager $140,360 $102,407
25 Environmental Science Professor $139,110 $101,596

What does every job pay in Kentucky?

701 jobs.

Every job with a median in Kentucky: pay, take-home and people
JobMedian payTake-homePeople
Cardiologist $558,180 $357,508 –
Airline Pilot $350,950 $234,931 6,260
Anesthesiologist $347,960 $233,163 1,090
Neurologist $338,850 $227,774 230
Other Physician $327,390 $220,996 3,340
Pathologist $324,390 $219,221 –
Obstetrician and Gynecologist $317,110 $214,915 240
Radiologist $279,990 $192,958 –
Family Medicine Physician $248,730 $173,760 1,170
Internal Medicine Physician $241,530 $169,285 1,060
Psychiatrist $237,770 $166,949 160
Nurse Anesthetist $222,520 $157,471 1,640
Podiatrist $201,260 $142,928 80
Dermatologist $195,830 $139,082 –
Physicist $180,910 $128,704 50
Chief Executive $179,530 $127,809 2,070
General Pediatrician $175,690 $125,319 380
Emergency Medicine Physician $169,390 $121,233 620
Other Surgeon $162,160 $116,544 440
Judge and Magistrate $150,650 $109,080 370
Other Psychologist $149,990 $108,652 300
Engineering Manager $147,680 $107,154 1,800
Law Professor $140,820 $102,705 120
IT Manager $140,360 $102,407 3,130
Environmental Science Professor $139,110 $101,596 70
Sociologist $136,870 $100,144 30
Pharmacist $136,530 $99,923 5,030
General Dentist $134,160 $98,386 790
Financial Manager $130,650 $96,110 6,630
Commercial Pilot $129,990 $95,682 800
Marketing Manager $128,930 $94,995 1,930
Optometrist $128,860 $94,949 430
Sales Manager $128,650 $94,813 6,650
Air Traffic Controller $127,800 $94,262 230
Natural Sciences Manager $126,440 $93,380 400
Aerospace Engineer $126,130 $93,179 290
Database Architect $125,400 $92,706 350
Fundraising Manager $124,770 $92,297 210
Purchasing Manager $124,350 $92,025 920
Airfield Operations Specialist $123,290 $91,337 290
Other Manager $122,930 $91,104 2,390
Nurse Practitioner $122,870 $91,065 4,770
Human Resources Manager $121,460 $90,144 1,960
Physician Assistant $120,760 $89,676 1,360
Ship Engineer $120,550 $89,535 –
Actuary $120,400 $89,435 70
Chemical Engineer $117,170 $87,276 190
Computer Hardware Engineer $116,200 $86,627 500
College Administrator $114,310 $85,364 890
Compensation and Benefits Manager $114,290 $85,350 110
Training and Development Manager $112,750 $84,321 460
Statistician $112,520 $84,167 80
Public Relations Manager $112,320 $84,034 510
Industrial Production Manager $112,250 $83,987 6,430
Engineering Professor $110,810 $83,024 340
Software Developer $109,010 $81,821 7,660
Health and Safety Engineer $107,760 $80,985 300
Environmental Engineer $107,520 $80,825 350
Advertising and Promotions Manager $107,030 $80,497 230
Economics Professor $106,250 $79,976 120
Power Distributor and Dispatcher $105,600 $79,541 140
Gambling Manager $105,340 $79,367 30
Veterinarian $104,100 $78,538 1,190
Computer Network Architect $103,740 $78,298 1,710
Information Security Analyst $103,630 $78,224 1,680
Health Services Manager $103,450 $78,104 8,600
Mining and Geological Engineer $103,300 $78,004 230
Atmospheric and Space Scientist $103,240 $77,964 100
Other Education Administrator $102,610 $77,542 530
Anthropology Professor $102,140 $77,228 60
Ophthalmologist $101,940 $77,094 70
Electronics Engineer $101,860 $77,041 860
Lawyer $101,550 $76,834 5,770
Mechanical Engineer $101,050 $76,500 4,170
Civil Engineer $100,930 $76,419 2,690
Facilities Manager $100,720 $76,279 1,070
Physical Therapist $100,710 $76,272 3,390
Materials Engineer $100,620 $76,212 280
Transportation and Distribution Manager $100,340 $76,025 2,340
K-12 Education Administrator $99,920 $75,744 4,940
Other Engineer $99,830 $75,684 500
Genetic Counselor $99,770 $75,644 50
Clinical Psychologist $99,140 $75,223 710
Powerhouse and Substation Repairer $98,860 $75,036 130
Food Scientist and Technologist $98,710 $74,935 170
Postmaster and Mail Superintendent $98,570 $74,842 240
Electrical Engineer $98,550 $74,828 1,540
Auto Damage Insurance Appraiser $97,950 $74,427 –
Radiation Therapist $97,760 $74,300 170
Architect $97,680 $74,247 630
Occupational Therapist $97,650 $74,227 2,190
Technical Sales Representative $97,640 $74,220 4,170
Chemical Plant and System Operator $97,550 $74,160 40
Construction Manager $97,020 $73,805 2,990
Industrial Engineer $96,820 $73,672 6,070
Earth and Space Sciences Professor $95,830 $73,010 40
Management Analyst $95,630 $72,876 4,550
Nuclear Medicine Technologist $95,470 $72,769 270
Biomedical Engineer $95,360 $72,696 80
Computer Systems Analyst $95,090 $72,515 5,930
Computer Programmer $94,850 $72,355 950
Power Plant Operator $93,400 $71,386 690
Audiologist $92,520 $70,797 90
Data Scientist $91,760 $70,289 1,540
Other Healthcare Technical Worker $91,560 $70,155 190
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer $91,230 $69,935 940
Sales Engineer $90,190 $69,240 380
Other Computer Occupation $89,420 $68,725 1,850
Other Treating Practitioner $88,610 $68,183 120
Database Administrator $87,390 $67,368 650
Network and Systems Administrator $87,020 $67,120 2,800
Geography Professor $86,790 $66,967 50
Other Social Worker $85,160 $65,877 610
Acupuncturist $85,130 $65,857 60
Surgical Assistant $84,600 $65,503 480
Agricultural Sciences Professor $84,100 $65,168 200
Chemist $84,090 $65,162 530
Transportation Inspector $83,970 $65,082 260
Operations Research Analyst $83,850 $65,001 660
Occupational Safety Specialist $83,730 $64,921 2,480
Health Specialties Professor $83,680 $64,888 1,380
Speech-Language Pathologist $83,550 $64,801 2,610
Computer Science Professor $83,470 $64,747 310
Web Developer $82,630 $64,186 270
Chemistry Professor $82,550 $64,132 250
MRI Technologist $82,200 $63,898 650
Chiropractor $81,740 $63,591 470
Project Management Specialist $81,700 $63,564 10,250
Financial and Investment Analyst $81,660 $63,537 2,460
Other Physical Scientist $81,260 $63,270 260
Technical Writer $81,070 $63,143 340
Registered Nurse $81,040 $63,123 50,300
Police Supervisor $80,390 $62,688 1,600
Physics Professor $80,270 $62,608 160
Business Professor $80,140 $62,521 760
Entertainment and Recreation Manager $80,130 $62,515 300
Insurance Underwriter $79,830 $62,314 900
Other Biological Scientist $79,400 $62,027 260
General and Operations Manager $79,370 $62,006 52,100
Credit Analyst $79,290 $61,953 370
Software QA Analyst and Tester $79,100 $61,826 890
Electrical and Electronics Drafter $79,050 $61,793 80
Other Social Scientist $78,850 $61,659 350
Dental Hygienist $78,830 $61,645 2,070
Epidemiologist $78,810 $61,632 120
Political Science Professor $78,670 $61,538 140
Refinery Operator $78,670 $61,538 520
Mechanical Engineering Technician $77,990 $61,084 520
Locomotive Engineer $77,620 $60,837 540
Medical Scientist $77,580 $60,810 670
Geoscientist $77,510 $60,763 170
Power Line Installer $77,020 $60,435 2,930
Web and Digital Interface Designer $77,000 $60,422 590
Social and Community Service Manager $76,960 $60,395 2,280
Budget Analyst $76,860 $60,329 630
Maintenance and Repair Supervisor $76,760 $60,262 10,020
Machinery Maintenance Worker $76,710 $60,228 2,920
Financial Examiner $76,260 $59,927 640
Art Director $76,160 $59,861 320
Commercial and Industrial Designer $76,100 $59,820 420
Signal and Track Switch Repairer $75,870 $59,667 60
Other Life Scientist $75,670 $59,533 100
Furnace and Kiln Operator $75,620 $59,500 240
School Psychologist $75,370 $59,332 590
Accountant and Auditor $75,270 $59,266 11,930
Hearing Aid Specialist $75,200 $59,219 100
Other Therapist $75,060 $59,125 190
Cost Estimator $74,880 $59,005 1,960
Boilermaker $74,810 $58,958 150
Emergency Management Director $74,730 $58,905 150
Biochemist and Biophysicist $74,710 $58,891 40
Ethnic and Cultural Studies Professor $74,690 $58,878 90
Other Business Operations Specialist $74,690 $58,878 5,870
Farmer and Rancher $74,640 $58,844 110
Financial Risk Specialist $74,640 $58,844 500
Psychology Professor $74,520 $58,764 590
Sound Engineering Technician $74,100 $58,483 60
Other Protective Service Supervisor $73,920 $58,363 190
Claims Adjuster and Examiner $73,840 $58,310 3,670
Labor Relations Specialist $73,550 $58,116 640
Construction Supervisor $73,490 $58,076 9,620
Family and Consumer Sciences Professor $73,460 $58,056 80
Non-Retail Sales Supervisor $73,320 $57,962 2,090
Rail-Track Equipment Operator $73,120 $57,828 270
Respiratory Therapist $72,750 $57,581 2,530
Mining Roof Bolter $72,510 $57,421 120
Production Supervisor $72,490 $57,407 13,820
Anthropologist and Archeologist $72,230 $57,233 70
Conservation Scientist $71,980 $57,066 180
Nursing Professor $71,920 $57,026 1,130
Surveyor $71,840 $56,973 670
Detective $71,670 $56,859 720
Cartographer and Photogrammetrist $71,470 $56,725 90
Economist $71,400 $56,679 100
Environmental Scientist $71,040 $56,438 1,000
Biological Science Professor $70,630 $56,164 470
Millwright $70,610 $56,150 1,220
Food Service Manager $70,410 $56,017 1,680
Radiologic Technologist $69,670 $55,522 3,630
Dietitian and Nutritionist $69,520 $55,422 1,040
Other Plant and System Operator $69,430 $55,362 30
Compliance Officer $69,240 $55,235 4,360
Human Resources Specialist $69,010 $55,081 10,900
Mechanical Drafter $68,880 $54,994 510
Landscape Architect $68,460 $54,713 140
Logistician $68,420 $54,686 2,590
Fundraiser $68,270 $54,586 1,030
Other Science Technician $68,230 $54,559 320
Other Legal Support Worker $68,220 $54,553 180
Extraction Worker Helper $68,020 $54,419 230
Aircraft Mechanic $67,920 $54,352 1,680
Other Professor $67,690 $54,198 4,120
Soil and Plant Scientist $67,340 $53,964 140
Personal Financial Advisor $67,150 $53,837 2,040
Reinforcing Iron and Rebar Worker $66,830 $53,623 40
Stationary Engineer $66,770 $53,583 90
Tool and Die Maker $66,570 $53,450 1,900
Microbiologist $66,500 $53,403 80
Milling Machine Operator $66,440 $53,357 540
Other Precision Instrument Repairer $66,410 $53,334 80
Social Science Research Assistant $66,390 $53,318 1,190
Mathematical Science Professor $65,820 $52,880 490
Other Financial Specialist $65,690 $52,780 690
Other Engineering Technician $65,660 $52,757 380
Foreign Language Professor $65,630 $52,734 180
Philosophy and Religion Professor $65,580 $52,696 320
Health Education Specialist $65,370 $52,534 760
Electro-Mechanical Technician $65,270 $52,458 70
Social Work Professor $65,260 $52,450 280
Buyer and Purchasing Agent $65,240 $52,435 5,440
Occupational Therapy Assistant $65,230 $52,427 500
Librarian $65,200 $52,404 1,980
Hydrologic Technician $65,170 $52,381 30
English Professor $65,090 $52,319 540
Urban and Regional Planner $65,000 $52,250 180
CNC Programmer $64,980 $52,235 230
Recreation and Fitness Studies Professor $64,890 $52,166 230
Other Social Sciences Professor $64,840 $52,127 340
Food Science Technician $64,770 $52,073 160
Orthotist and Prosthetist $64,730 $52,043 80
Compensation and Benefits Specialist $64,690 $52,012 670
History Professor $64,600 $51,943 280
Vehicle Electronics Installer $64,570 $51,920 40
Industrial Machinery Mechanic $64,560 $51,912 11,540
Art, Drama, and Music Professor $64,440 $51,820 900
School and Career Counselor $64,350 $51,751 5,030
Wholesale Sales Representative $64,280 $51,697 15,550
Plumber $64,160 $51,605 6,360
Electrical Engineering Technician $64,120 $51,574 1,060
Healthcare Social Worker $64,080 $51,543 1,980
Structural Iron and Steel Worker $64,060 $51,528 990
Telecom Line Installer $64,010 $51,489 1,870
Library Science Professor $63,660 $51,220 60
Instructional Coordinator $63,640 $51,205 3,380
Commercial Diver $63,550 $51,136 –
Historian $63,530 $51,120 50
Office Supervisor $63,180 $50,851 19,670
Other Special Education Teacher $63,140 $50,821 290
Transportation Security Screener $63,130 $50,813 510
Gas Plant Operator $63,070 $50,767 200
Professional Athlete $63,020 $50,728 –
Industrial Electronics Repairer $62,980 $50,698 630
Correctional Officer Supervisor $62,780 $50,544 780
Postal Service Clerk $62,610 $50,413 1,220
Executive Assistant $62,410 $50,260 2,700
Communications Professor $62,380 $50,237 470
Film and Video Editor $62,330 $50,198 60
Loan Officer $62,090 $50,014 3,940
Rail Yard Engineer $62,070 $49,998 110
Farming and Forestry Supervisor $62,030 $49,968 320
Crane and Tower Operator $62,000 $49,945 640
Zoologist and Wildlife Biologist $61,950 $49,906 150
High School Teacher $61,560 $49,606 12,780
Market Research Analyst $61,480 $49,545 6,290
Physical Therapist Assistant $61,480 $49,545 2,580
Environmental Engineering Technician $61,470 $49,537 200
Forensic Science Technician $61,470 $49,537 60
Control and Valve Installer $61,450 $49,522 450
Education Professor $61,450 $49,522 620
Training and Development Specialist $61,390 $49,476 6,090
Other Metal and Plastic Worker $61,320 $49,422 200
Sociology Professor $61,260 $49,376 150
Farm and Home Management Educator $61,190 $49,322 420
Industrial Engineering Technician $61,140 $49,284 1,330
High School Vocational Teacher $61,130 $49,276 330
Middle School Teacher $61,120 $49,268 8,040
Occupational Safety Technician $61,120 $49,268 650
Vocational Instructor $61,080 $49,238 1,560
Cardiovascular Technologist $60,980 $49,161 940
Clinical Lab Technologist $60,880 $49,084 4,860
Insurance Sales Agent $60,880 $49,084 6,210
Firefighting Supervisor $60,850 $49,061 1,250
Chemical Technician $60,830 $49,045 700
High School Special Education Teacher $60,730 $48,969 2,680
Security and Fire Alarm Installer $60,700 $48,946 1,080
Athletic Trainer $60,680 $48,930 720
Sheet Metal Worker $60,680 $48,930 2,210
Elementary School Teacher $60,610 $48,876 19,080
Police Officer $60,490 $48,784 7,890
Surgical Technologist $60,490 $48,784 1,440
Licensed Practical Nurse $60,460 $48,761 8,570
Criminal Justice Professor $60,280 $48,623 100
Kindergarten Teacher $60,280 $48,623 2,450
Medical Equipment Repairer $60,230 $48,584 860
Construction Inspector $60,200 $48,561 1,380
Middle School Special Education Teacher $60,200 $48,561 1,530
Public Relations Specialist $60,150 $48,523 2,580
Architectural and Civil Drafter $60,120 $48,500 870
Transportation Supervisor $60,090 $48,477 10,180
Elementary Special Education Teacher $60,060 $48,454 3,710
Agricultural Technician $59,860 $48,300 210
Paralegal and Legal Assistant $59,830 $48,277 3,540
Brickmason and Blockmason $59,820 $48,269 780
Massage Therapist $59,790 $48,246 780
Electrician $59,720 $48,192 11,030
Civil Engineering Technician $59,710 $48,185 1,860
Telecom Equipment Installer $59,700 $48,177 2,210
Probation Officer $59,610 $48,108 830
Lodging Manager $59,440 $47,977 –
Editor $59,430 $47,970 490
Rail Car Repairer $59,430 $47,970 770
Interior Designer $59,240 $47,824 490
Recreational Therapist $59,240 $47,824 100
Mobile Heavy Equipment Mechanic $59,220 $47,808 2,540
Financial Services Sales Agent $59,110 $47,724 5,340
Child and Family Social Worker $59,100 $47,716 8,470
Metal-Refining Furnace Operator $59,040 $47,670 810
Clergy $58,920 $47,578 410
Postal Service Mail Carrier $58,910 $47,570 4,640
Property Appraiser and Assessor $58,850 $47,524 140
Pipelayer $58,820 $47,501 60
Separating Machine Operator $58,770 $47,462 1,500
Machinist $58,660 $47,378 6,040
HVAC Technician $58,620 $47,347 5,100
Real Estate Sales Agent $58,610 $47,339 1,120
Rehabilitation Counselor $58,540 $47,286 790
Bridge and Lock Tender $58,220 $47,040 100
Other Teacher $58,200 $47,024 2,650
Other Social Service Specialist $58,150 $46,986 280
Paper Goods Machine Operator $58,050 $46,909 2,670
Other Drafter $57,930 $46,817 50
IT Support Specialist $57,850 $46,755 9,460
Mechanical Door Repairer $57,840 $46,748 180
Gambling Services Supervisor $57,830 $46,740 50
Construction Equipment Operator $57,780 $46,702 7,050
Brokerage Clerk $57,690 $46,632 –
Landscaping Supervisor $57,670 $46,617 1,360
Other Material Moving Worker $57,550 $46,525 190
Chemical Equipment Operator $57,530 $46,509 3,590
Postal Mail Sorter $57,430 $46,433 950
Tax Examiner and Revenue Agent $57,240 $46,287 1,290
Forester $56,460 $45,687 120
Railroad Brake and Signal Operator $56,410 $45,649 170
Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver $56,340 $45,595 31,760
Earth Driller $56,160 $45,457 80
Fire Inspector and Investigator $55,970 $45,311 100
Production and Planning Clerk $55,690 $45,095 6,480
Calibration Technician $55,650 $45,065 90
Diesel Mechanic $55,480 $44,934 3,890
Curator $55,460 $44,919 130
Structural Metal Fabricator $55,250 $44,757 450
Multiple Machine Tool Operator $54,960 $44,534 5,510
Floor Sander and Finisher $54,580 $44,242 –
Fish and Game Warden $54,570 $44,235 70
Producer and Director $54,550 $44,219 950
Transit and Intercity Bus Driver $54,550 $44,219 2,570
Preschool Special Education Teacher $54,220 $43,966 –
Mental Health Counselor $54,190 $43,943 7,690
Camera Operator $53,790 $43,635 170
Interpreter and Translator $53,590 $43,482 480
Coil Winder, Taper, and Finisher $53,490 $43,405 100
Set and Exhibit Designer $53,260 $43,228 40
Tank Car, Truck, and Ship Loader $53,160 $43,151 130
Graphic Designer $52,960 $42,997 2,060
Payroll and Timekeeping Clerk $52,890 $42,944 1,670
Title Examiner $52,860 $42,921 270
Property and Real Estate Manager $52,790 $42,867 2,670
Services Sales Representative $52,750 $42,836 11,860
Carpenter $52,680 $42,782 8,540
Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor $52,530 $42,667 1,010
Marriage and Family Therapist $52,420 $42,582 330
Railroad Conductor and Yardmaster $52,380 $42,552 110
Religious Education Director $52,230 $42,436 250
Adhesive Bonding Machine Operator $52,140 $42,367 110
Eligibility Interviewer $52,020 $42,275 1,710
Other Financial Clerk $51,860 $42,152 340
Drilling Machine Operator $51,740 $42,060 –
Advertising Sales Agent $51,580 $41,937 620
Welder $51,470 $41,852 6,630
Other Maintenance and Repair Worker $51,310 $41,729 1,110
Locksmith and Safe Repairer $51,120 $41,583 120
Exercise Physiologist $51,070 $41,545 60
Special Effects Artist and Animator $50,970 $41,468 40
Motorboat Mechanic $50,920 $41,430 360
Welding Machine Operator $50,740 $41,291 1,000
Procurement Clerk $50,610 $41,191 810
Human Resources Assistant $50,400 $41,030 1,240
Rolling Machine Operator $50,400 $41,030 1,120
Floor Layer $50,380 $41,015 390
Blaster and Explosives Worker $50,360 $40,999 380
Court Reporter $50,350 $40,992 80
Rigger $50,270 $40,930 –
Security Supervisor $50,260 $40,922 810
Cement Mason and Concrete Finisher $50,200 $40,876 1,280
Continuous Mining Machine Operator $50,020 $40,738 390
Metal Extruding Machine Operator $50,000 $40,723 1,400
Dispatcher $49,990 $40,715 2,440
Other Sales and Related Worker $49,990 $40,715 210
Other Office Support Worker $49,970 $40,700 470
Museum Technician and Conservator $49,940 $40,676 80
Paramedic $49,890 $40,638 1,800
Embalmer $49,860 $40,615 280
Geological Technician $49,840 $40,600 60
Radio and Cell Tower Installer $49,840 $40,600 90
Credit Authorizer $49,790 $40,561 60
Insulation Worker $49,730 $40,515 400
Home Appliance Repairer $49,710 $40,500 200
Graduate Teaching Assistant $49,680 $40,477 990
Other Health Technician $49,410 $40,269 1,940
Travel Agent $49,370 $40,238 220
Health Information Technologist $49,330 $40,208 1,320
Event Planner $49,280 $40,169 1,110
CNC Machine Operator $49,180 $40,092 1,740
Grinding Machine Operator $49,160 $40,077 850
Weigher, Checker, and Sampler $49,140 $40,062 1,300
Glazier $49,110 $40,039 570
Farm Equipment Mechanic $48,970 $39,931 800
Biological Technician $48,910 $39,885 260
Electric Motor and Power Tool Repairer $48,900 $39,877 280
Archivist $48,810 $39,808 40
Writer and Author $48,780 $39,785 350
Food Roasting Machine Operator $48,540 $39,601 340
Mixing Machine Operator $48,490 $39,562 1,660
Medical Records Specialist $48,410 $39,501 4,210
Audiovisual Equipment Installer $48,380 $39,478 180
Other Information and Record Clerk $48,380 $39,478 1,320
Drywall and Ceiling Tile Installer $48,340 $39,447 490
Bill and Account Collector $48,330 $39,439 1,740
Insurance Claims Clerk $48,330 $39,439 3,030
Audio and Video Technician $48,320 $39,432 600
Community Health Worker $48,230 $39,362 980
Motorcycle Mechanic $48,220 $39,355 200
Cutting Machine Operator $48,180 $39,324 900
Credit Counselor $48,150 $39,301 220
Construction Painter $48,110 $39,270 1,390
Chef and Head Cook $48,070 $39,239 1,790
Fine Artist $48,050 $39,224 60
Printing Press Operator $48,000 $39,186 2,470
Miscellaneous Assembler $47,950 $39,147 47,320
Loan Interviewer and Clerk $47,910 $39,116 3,690
RV Service Technician $47,800 $39,032 200
Surface Mining Machine Operator $47,780 $39,017 790
Dental Assistant $47,730 $38,978 4,530
Private Detective and Investigator $47,650 $38,917 350
Hazardous Materials Removal Worker $47,640 $38,909 460
News Reporter and Journalist $47,530 $38,824 370
Sailor and Marine Oiler $47,460 $38,771 1,470
Tile and Stone Setter $47,380 $38,709 180
Electrical and Electronic Assembler $47,220 $38,586 2,020
Coating and Painting Machine Operator $47,170 $38,548 2,190
Photographer $47,170 $38,548 380
Metal Molding Machine Operator $47,110 $38,502 4,340
Heat Treating Equipment Operator $47,090 $38,486 340
Jeweler $47,090 $38,486 320
Computer and Office Machine Repairer $47,070 $38,471 1,440
Lathe Operator $47,060 $38,463 250
Funeral Home Manager $47,040 $38,448 400
Roofer $46,940 $38,371 1,080
Food Batchmaker $46,900 $38,340 4,570
Medical Equipment Preparer $46,880 $38,325 1,120
Environmental Science Technician $46,840 $38,294 560
General Maintenance Worker $46,810 $38,271 22,190
Other Grounds Maintenance Worker $46,790 $38,256 70
Dental Laboratory Technician $46,770 $38,240 420
Agricultural Inspector $46,640 $38,140 270
Forklift and Industrial Truck Operator $46,630 $38,133 11,270
Pump Operator $46,600 $38,110 40
Other Protective Service Worker $46,580 $38,094 540
Bookkeeper and Accounting Clerk $46,550 $38,071 23,480
Proofreader and Copy Marker $46,380 $37,941 70
Quality Control Inspector $46,280 $37,864 12,880
Cargo and Freight Agent $46,230 $37,825 2,570
Mechanical Insulation Worker $46,150 $37,764 –
Auto Body Repairer $46,080 $37,710 1,680
Surveying and Mapping Technician $46,050 $37,687 920
Other Healthcare Support Worker $46,020 $37,664 770
Tire Builder $46,010 $37,656 270
Auto Glass Installer $45,980 $37,633 180
Housekeeping Supervisor $45,860 $37,541 2,920
Reservation and Ticket Agent $45,840 $37,526 1,860
Prepress Technician and Worker $45,830 $37,518 1,130
Parking Enforcement Worker $45,790 $37,487 30
Cutting and Press Machine Operator $45,760 $37,464 7,290
Desktop Publisher $45,760 $37,464 40
Construction Laborer $45,710 $37,426 13,280
Medical Appliance Technician $45,690 $37,410 –
Public Safety Telecommunicator $45,670 $37,395 1,350
Paving Equipment Operator $45,660 $37,387 110
Statistical Assistant $45,660 $37,387 100
Billing and Posting Clerk $45,590 $37,334 5,200
Packaging Machine Operator $45,450 $37,226 8,640
Water Treatment Plant Operator $45,430 $37,211 2,540
Other Education Worker $45,350 $37,149 2,420
Log Grader and Scaler $45,330 $37,134 80
Manicurist and Pedicurist $45,310 $37,118 240
Fitness Trainer and Instructor $45,280 $37,095 1,990
Adult Education and ESL Instructor $44,990 $36,872 350
Auto Mechanic $44,890 $36,796 11,140
School Bus Driver $44,830 $36,749 6,820
Passenger Attendant $44,810 $36,734 –
Conveyor Operator $44,800 $36,726 780
Preschool and Daycare Administrator $44,530 $36,519 1,000
Utilities Meter Reader $44,450 $36,457 690
Tree Trimmer and Pruner $44,410 $36,427 1,020
Dispensing Optician $44,290 $36,334 950
Administrative Assistant $44,200 $36,265 18,420
Tool Grinder, Filer, and Sharpener $44,170 $36,242 50
Quarry Rock Splitter $44,000 $36,112 310
New Accounts Clerk $43,990 $36,104 240
Septic Tank Servicer $43,980 $36,096 280
Court and Municipal Clerk $43,680 $35,866 2,370
Other Construction Helper $43,680 $35,866 50
Forest and Conservation Technician $43,660 $35,850 240
Foundry Mold and Coremaker $43,610 $35,812 –
Plumber Helper $43,330 $35,597 960
Mortician and Funeral Director $43,320 $35,589 470
Light Truck Driver $43,230 $35,520 15,630
Small Engine Mechanic $43,110 $35,428 500
Refuse and Recycling Collector $43,100 $35,420 1,580
Furniture Finisher $42,950 $35,305 50
Demonstrator and Product Promoter $42,910 $35,274 480
Shipping and Receiving Clerk $42,830 $35,212 16,130
Electrician Helper $42,790 $35,182 690
Hand Laborer and Material Mover $42,770 $35,166 57,930
Elevator Installer and Repairer $42,670 $35,089 –
Mental Health Social Worker $42,570 $35,013 1,360
Crushing and Grinding Machine Operator $42,520 $34,974 200
Phlebotomist $42,480 $34,943 2,500
Avionics Technician $42,440 $34,913 –
Correctional Officer $42,310 $34,813 6,770
Pest Control Worker $42,310 $34,813 1,030
Painting and Coating Worker $42,220 $34,744 200
Machine Feeder and Offbearer $42,200 $34,728 980
Vending Machine Repairer $42,150 $34,690 190
Production Helper $42,130 $34,675 2,900
Agricultural Equipment Operator $42,000 $34,575 190
Recreation Supervisor $41,870 $34,475 990
Food Cooking Machine Operator $41,800 $34,421 300
Upholsterer $41,690 $34,336 80
Molder, Shaper, and Caster $41,590 $34,260 370
Engine and Other Machine Assembler $41,580 $34,252 1,180
Personal Service Supervisor $41,490 $34,183 840
Freezing Equipment Operator $40,840 $33,683 70
Order Clerk $40,620 $33,514 930
Interviewer $40,490 $33,414 1,050
Cabinetmaker and Bench Carpenter $40,440 $33,376 920
Highway Maintenance Worker $40,400 $33,345 3,030
Psychiatric Technician $40,370 $33,322 910
Broadcast Technician $40,240 $33,222 230
Other Counselor $40,230 $33,214 70
Retail Sales Supervisor $40,080 $33,099 18,290
Self-Enrichment Teacher $39,990 $33,030 1,630
Other Agricultural Worker $39,970 $33,015 30
Other Entertainer and Performer $39,957 $33,004 50
Print Binding and Finishing Worker $39,620 $32,746 410
Veterinary Technician $39,590 $32,723 1,670
Pesticide Applicator $39,380 $32,561 290
Legal Secretary $39,300 $32,500 2,810
Medical Assistant $39,270 $32,477 13,440
File Clerk $39,250 $32,461 250
Actor $39,208 $32,429 90
Pharmacy Technician $39,200 $32,423 8,870
Meat, Poultry, and Fish Cutter $39,150 $32,384 1,450
Other Media Worker $39,050 $32,308 40
Medical Transcriptionist $39,000 $32,269 690
Counter and Rental Clerk $38,990 $32,261 2,960
Ophthalmic Medical Technician $38,990 $32,261 1,570
Aircraft Service Attendant $38,850 $32,154 400
Metal Pourer and Caster $38,800 $32,115 60
Medical Secretary $38,750 $32,077 26,430
Customer Service Representative $38,700 $32,039 38,630
Office Machine Operator $38,640 $31,992 200
Other Production Worker $38,630 $31,985 2,780
Psychiatric Aide $38,610 $31,969 250
Skincare Specialist $38,580 $31,946 830
Oil and Gas Rotary Drill Operator $38,520 $31,900 30
Nursing Assistant $38,370 $31,785 23,410
Slaughterer and Meat Packer $38,330 $31,754 320
Woodworking Machine Operator $38,080 $31,562 1,320
Gambling Booth Cashier $38,060 $31,547 30
Farm and Ranch Animal Worker $38,030 $31,524 700
Baggage Porter and Bellhop $37,940 $31,454 260
Sports Book Writer and Runner $37,910 $31,431 60
Mail Clerk $37,890 $31,416 530
General Office Clerk $37,870 $31,401 29,750
Carpet Installer $37,800 $31,347 130
Crematory Operator $37,740 $31,301 50
Switchboard Operator $37,590 $31,186 370
Other Food Processing Worker $37,450 $31,078 690
Social and Human Service Assistant $37,440 $31,070 4,670
Photo Processing Worker $37,430 $31,063 120
Agricultural Grader and Sorter $37,300 $30,963 160
Costume Attendant $37,240 $30,917 40
Teller $37,210 $30,893 5,350
Firefighter $37,150 $30,847 5,150
Driver/Sales Worker $37,030 $30,755 6,140
Maintenance and Repair Helper $37,000 $30,732 900
Data Entry Keyer $36,870 $30,632 2,020
Hand Packer and Packager $36,850 $30,617 5,900
Stocker and Order Filler $36,810 $30,586 47,730
Wood Sawing Machine Operator $36,810 $30,586 1,050
Emergency Medical Technician $36,800 $30,578 2,770
Landscaper and Groundskeeper $36,670 $30,478 8,920
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician $36,650 $30,463 610
Tax Preparer $36,620 $30,440 1,080
Etcher and Engraver $36,540 $30,379 250
Home Health Aide $36,440 $30,302 31,260
Parts Salesperson $36,400 $30,271 4,220
Gambling Surveillance Officer $36,330 $30,217 90
Tire Repairer and Changer $36,300 $30,194 1,270
Forming and Pressing Machine Operator $36,180 $30,102 1,690
Broadcast Announcer and Radio DJ $36,170 $30,094 340
Forging Machine Operator $36,110 $30,048 –
Tour and Travel Guide $36,070 $30,017 1,010
Courier and Messenger $35,880 $29,871 750
Cleaning Equipment Operator $35,850 $29,848 310
Merchandise Displayer and Window Trimmer $35,820 $29,825 2,460
Food Service Supervisor $35,810 $29,818 18,010
Library Technician $35,700 $29,733 670
Coach and Scout $35,570 $29,633 2,800
Carpenter Helper $35,520 $29,595 –
Physical Therapist Aide $35,490 $29,572 160
Butcher and Meat Cutter $35,430 $29,526 1,670
Miscellaneous Construction Worker $35,420 $29,518 90
Security Guard $35,420 $29,518 13,580
Animal Control Worker $35,360 $29,472 190
Orderly $35,260 $29,395 710
Other Personal Care Worker $35,140 $29,303 180
Floral Designer $34,940 $29,149 430
Gambling Cage Worker $34,860 $29,088 110
Mobile Home Installer $34,770 $29,018 –
Plating Machine Operator $34,680 $28,949 630
Restaurant Cook $34,640 $28,918 13,510
Pharmacy Aide $34,610 $28,895 600
Cleaners of Vehicle and Equipment $34,470 $28,788 5,580
Crossing Guard and Flagger $34,450 $28,772 420
Telemarketer $34,450 $28,772 910
Tutor $34,240 $28,611 780
Veterinary Assistant $34,140 $28,534 1,840
Other Religious Worker $34,090 $28,496 –
Animal Trainer $34,030 $28,450 470
Baker $33,890 $28,342 1,630
Taxi Driver $33,850 $28,311 150
Library Assistant $33,690 $28,188 1,050
Shuttle Driver and Chauffeur $33,580 $28,104 2,630
Fiber Extruding Machine Operator $33,330 $27,912 120
Crop and Nursery Farmworker $33,050 $27,697 510
Receptionist and Information Clerk $32,940 $27,612 9,290
Ambulance Driver and Attendant $32,850 $27,543 130
Tailor and Dressmaker $32,530 $27,297 230
Recreation Worker $32,400 $27,197 3,290
Janitor $32,320 $27,136 25,750
Nonrestaurant Food Server $32,200 $27,043 3,660
Short Order Cook $31,840 $26,767 650
Parking Attendant $31,630 $26,605 1,480
Institution and Cafeteria Cook $31,550 $26,544 11,540
Automotive Service Attendant $31,410 $26,436 1,220
Concierge $31,390 $26,421 420
Garment Presser $31,200 $26,275 530
Textile Cutting Machine Operator $31,040 $26,152 50
Maid and Housekeeper $30,880 $26,029 12,040
Bailiff $30,760 $25,937 760
Animal Caretaker $30,720 $25,906 6,140
Residential Advisor $30,260 $25,552 1,580
Logging Equipment Operator $30,230 $25,529 300
Teaching Assistant $30,160 $25,476 16,330
Hotel Desk Clerk $29,970 $25,330 3,890
Hairstylist and Cosmetologist $29,840 $25,230 2,350
Preschool Teacher $29,780 $25,184 8,520
Substitute Teacher $29,730 $25,145 320
Waiter and Waitress $29,660 $25,091 27,150
Retail Salesperson $29,650 $25,084 51,250
Sewing Machine Operator $29,460 $24,938 2,750
Laundry and Dry-Cleaning Worker $29,220 $24,753 2,350
Funeral Attendant $29,160 $24,707 560
Dishwasher $29,060 $24,630 4,890
Dietetic Technician $28,970 $24,561 430
Childcare Worker $28,920 $24,523 5,820
Bartender $28,780 $24,415 6,870
Cashier $28,590 $24,269 44,550
Lifeguard and Ski Patrol $28,520 $24,215 1,820
Oil and Gas Service Unit Operator $28,280 $24,026 210
School Bus Monitor $28,220 $23,979 370
Amusement and Recreation Attendant $27,210 $23,183 3,190
Fast Food and Counter Worker $27,130 $23,120 41,860
Restaurant Host and Hostess $27,100 $23,096 5,120
Food Preparation Worker $26,850 $22,899 15,390
Busser and Dining Room Attendant $26,330 $22,489 3,350
Usher and Ticket Taker $25,930 $22,173 1,110
Other Motor Vehicle Operator $23,870 $20,549 450
Fast Food Cook $23,500 $20,257 21,750

Best take-home first. Jobs with no Kentucky median from BLS are left out; each job’s own page has the national figures.

Which other states can I check?

All jobs and groups: pay by job. Your own paycheck: the Kentucky paycheck calculator.

Questions about pay in Kentucky

What is the highest-paying job in Kentucky?

Cardiologist, with a median of $558,180 in Kentucky (BLS, May 2025). A single filer keeps about $357,508 after federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare and Kentucky tax.

What is the most common job in Kentucky?

Hand Laborer and Material Mover: about 57,930 people in Kentucky, with a median of $42,770.

How much do you take home on the median Kentucky salary?

The median pay for all jobs in Kentucky is $46,920 (BLS, May 2025). A single filer keeps about $38,356 a year after federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare and Kentucky tax.

Which job pays more in Kentucky than in the rest of the US?

Among jobs with at least 1,000 people in Kentucky, airline pilot pays furthest above its US median: $350,950 here, 51% more than the national $232,140.

Where do these figures come from?

Pay is the BLS estimate for May 2025, for all employers in Kentucky. Take-home is our 2026 estimate for one job, single, standard deduction, nothing taken before tax.