SalaryData

Elementary School Teacher Salary in Kentucky

Based on 19K+ workers in Kentucky

Data year: 2025 · Last updated: June 2026

Median Annual Salary (KY)

$60,610

$29.139/hr

vs National Average

$68,176

-11.1% vs national median

Salary Range (10th–90th)

$46K $80K

19K employed in Kentucky

Elementary School Teacher salary in Kentucky averages $60,610 per year, with approximately 19,080 educators currently employed in the state. This median falls about 11% below the national average, reflecting regional differences in compensation across the education sector. Teachers in Kentucky can expect salaries ranging from $45,600 to $79,740 annually, depending on individual circumstances.

Several factors influence Elementary School Teacher salary in Kentucky, including years of experience, educational credentials, district funding levels, and geographic location within the state. Teachers with advanced degrees or specialized certifications typically earn more, as do those in better-funded districts. Cost of living variations between urban and rural areas also affect compensation packages, and seniority plays a significant role in salary progression throughout a teaching career.

Salary Distribution — Elementary School Teacher in Kentucky

Elementary School Teacher (KY) salary percentiles
PercentileAnnual Salary
10th percentile$45,600
25th percentile$48,400
Median (50th percentile)$60,610
75th percentile$64,570
90th percentile$79,740

Historical Salary Trend — Elementary School Teacher in Kentucky vs National

Historical Elementary School Teacher (Kentucky vs National) salary trend
YearMedian Salary (United States)
2022$57,390
2023$59,150
2024$57,980
2025$60,610
Historical salary trend for Elementary School Teacher in Kentucky
YearKentucky MedianNational Median
2022$57,390$61,148
2023$59,150$64,171
2024$57,980$64,107
2025$60,610$68,176

Elementary School Teacher Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky

Elementary School Teacher Salary in Other States

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do elementary school teachers make in Kentucky?

Elementary school teachers in Kentucky earn a median salary of $60,610 per year, or $29 per hour. This is approximately 11.1% below the national average for this position.

What is the salary range for elementary teachers in Kentucky?

Elementary school teachers in Kentucky can expect salaries ranging from $45,600 on the lower end to $79,740 on the higher end, depending on experience and other factors.

Is teaching elementary school in Kentucky paid less than the national average?

Yes, elementary school teachers in Kentucky earn 11.1% less than the national average, with a median of $60,610 compared to higher averages in other states.

How many elementary school teachers work in Kentucky?

There are approximately 19,080 elementary school teachers employed in Kentucky according to current employment data.

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