SalaryData

Chief Executive Officer Salary in Kentucky

Based on 2K+ workers in Kentucky

Data year: 2025 · Last updated: June 2026

Median Annual Salary (KY)

$179,530

$86.313/hr

vs National Average

$212,619

-15.6% vs national median

Salary Range (10th–90th)

$73K $467K

2K employed in Kentucky

Chief Executive Officer salary in Kentucky averages $179,530 annually, according to current employment data. With approximately 2,070 CEOs working throughout the state, Kentucky's executive compensation falls 16% below the national average, reflecting regional economic differences and industry composition compared to higher-cost metropolitan areas nationwide.

Several factors influence Chief Executive Officer salary in Kentucky, including company size, industry sector, and geographic location within the state. Larger corporations and industries like healthcare and manufacturing typically offer higher compensation packages, while smaller businesses may provide more modest salaries. Years of experience, educational background, and prior executive performance also significantly impact earning potential in this competitive field.

Salary Distribution — Chief Executive Officer in Kentucky

Chief Executive Officer (KY) salary percentiles
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th percentile$72,800
25th percentile$119,990
Median (50th percentile)$179,530
75th percentile$298,750
90th percentile$466,660

Historical Salary Trend — Chief Executive Officer in Kentucky vs National

Historical Chief Executive Officer (Kentucky vs National) salary trend
YearMedian Salary (United States)
2022$157,790
2023$171,990
2024$146,630
2025$179,530
Historical salary trend for Chief Executive Officer in Kentucky
YearKentucky MedianNational Median
2022$157,790$168,969
2023$171,990$173,235
2024$146,630$176,421
2025$179,530$212,619

Chief Executive Officer Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky

Chief Executive Officer Salary in Other States

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do CEOs make in Kentucky?

The median CEO salary in Kentucky is $179,530 per year, or approximately $86 per hour. This is 15.6% below the national average for chief executives.

What is the salary range for a CEO in Kentucky?

CEO salaries in Kentucky range from $72,800 on the low end to $466,660 on the high end, representing significant variation based on company size and industry.

How many CEOs are employed in Kentucky?

There are approximately 2,070 chief executive officers employed in Kentucky according to current employment data.

Is the CEO salary in Kentucky lower than the national average?

Yes, Kentucky's median CEO salary of $179,530 is 15.6% lower than the national average for the position, making it below the typical compensation level across the United States.

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