Dental Hygienist Salary in Kentucky
Based on 2K+ workers in Kentucky
Median Annual Salary (KY)
$78,830
$37.90/hr
vs National Average
$96,870
-18.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$61K – $99K
2K employed in Kentucky
The median Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky is $78,830 per year, or approximately $38 per hour. This figure sits 18.6% below the national average. With 2,070 dental hygienists employed in the state, understanding the earning potential is crucial for those entering or advancing in this healthcare profession.
Several factors can influence a Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher pay. Location within Kentucky, whether in a bustling metropolitan area or a rural community, also impacts earnings, as does the specific type of practice, such as a private dental office, a public health clinic, or a hospital setting.
Salary Distribution — Dental Hygienist in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $61,280 |
| 25th percentile | $67,880 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $78,830 |
| 75th percentile | $91,800 |
| 90th percentile | $98,770 |
Top-Paying Industries for Dental Hygienist (U.S.)
Which industries pay Dental Hygienists the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Dental Hygienists in Kentucky tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Administrative and Support Services | $102,340 | 2K |
| Finance and Insurance | $100,180 | 40 |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $98,180 | 217K |
| Manufacturing | $96,200 | 40 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $94,570 | 120 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Dental Hygienist in Kentucky vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Kentucky) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $78,830 |
| 2026 (projected) | $81,195 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Kentucky Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $78,830 | $96,870 |
| 2026 (projected) | $81,195 | $99,776 |
Dental Hygienist Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $67,880 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $78,830 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $91,800 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $98,770 |
Dental Hygienist Salary in Other States
Related Dental Hygienist Salaries in Kentucky
How other high-demand occupations in Kentucky compare to Dental Hygienist ($78,830 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Dental Hygienist | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in KY | $558,180 | +608.1% | $268.36/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in KY | $347,960 | +341.4% | $167.29/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in KY | $317,110 | +302.3% | $152.46/hr |
| Radiologist in KY | $279,990 | +255.2% | $134.61/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in KY | $248,730 | +215.5% | $119.58/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in KY | $241,530 | +206.4% | $116.12/hr |
| Psychiatrist in KY | $237,770 | +201.6% | $114.31/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in KY | $222,520 | +182.3% | $106.98/hr |
| Podiatrist in KY | $201,260 | +155.3% | $96.76/hr |
| Pediatrician in KY | $175,690 | +122.9% | $84.47/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in KY | $169,390 | +114.9% | $81.44/hr |
| Surgeon in KY | $162,160 | +105.7% | $77.96/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky?
- The median Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky is $78,830 annually, translating to about $38 per hour. This median represents the midpoint of all salaries, with half earning more and half earning less.
What is the salary range for Dental Hygienists in Kentucky?
- In Kentucky, Dental Hygienists typically earn between $61,280 and $98,770 per year. This range indicates the lower and upper bounds of common salary expectations for the profession in the state.
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
- The Dental Hygienist salary in Kentucky is 18.6% lower than the national average. This suggests that, on average, professionals in this role in Kentucky earn less than their counterparts across the United States.
How many Dental Hygienists are employed in Kentucky?
- There are approximately 2,070 Dental Hygienists employed in Kentucky. This number provides context for the job market and the demand for these skilled healthcare professionals within the state.