Firefighter Salary in Kentucky
Based on 5K+ workers in Kentucky
Median Annual Salary (KY)
$37,150
$17.86/hr
vs National Average
$57,551
-35.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$28K – $61K
5K employed in Kentucky
The median Firefighter salary in Kentucky is $37,150 per year, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is 35.4% lower than the national average for the profession. Currently, there are an estimated 5,150 firefighters employed across the state.
Several factors influence a Firefighter salary in Kentucky. Experience plays a significant role, with entry-level positions typically earning less than seasoned professionals. Location within the state, the size of the fire department, and specific certifications or specializations can also impact an individual's earning potential, with salaries ranging from $27,870 to $60,720.
Salary Distribution — Firefighter in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $27,870 |
| 25th percentile | $33,390 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $37,150 |
| 75th percentile | $48,120 |
| 90th percentile | $60,720 |
Top-Paying Industries for Firefighter (U.S.)
Which industries pay Firefighters the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Firefighters in Kentucky tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $89,990 | 70 |
| Educational Services | $72,760 | 620 |
| Manufacturing | $71,490 | 590 |
| Transportation and Warehousing | $71,190 | 110 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $60,050 | 323K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Firefighter in Kentucky vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Kentucky) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,150 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,265 |
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 | $37,150 | $57,551 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,265 | $59,278 |
Firefighter Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $33,390 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $37,150 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $48,120 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $60,720 |
Firefighter Salary in Other States
Related Firefighter Salaries in Kentucky
How other high-demand occupations in Kentucky compare to Firefighter ($37,150 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Firefighter | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in KY | $60,490 | +62.8% | $29.08/hr |
| Security Guard in KY | $35,420 | -4.7% | $17.03/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in KY | $36,810 | -0.9% | $17.70/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in KY | $36,440 | -1.9% | $17.52/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in KY | $38,370 | +3.3% | $18.45/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in KY | $38,700 | +4.2% | $18.61/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in KY | $39,200 | +5.5% | $18.85/hr |
| Medical Assistant in KY | $39,270 | +5.7% | $18.88/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in KY | $34,640 | -6.8% | $16.65/hr |
| Tutor in KY | $39,990 | +7.6% | $19.23/hr |
| Receptionist in KY | $32,940 | -11.3% | $15.84/hr |
| Social Worker in KY | $42,570 | +14.6% | $20.47/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Firefighter salary in Kentucky?
- The median Firefighter salary in Kentucky is $37,150 annually, or about $18 per hour. This is considerably lower than the national average, with Kentucky firefighters earning 35.4% less.
What is the salary range for firefighters in Kentucky?
- In Kentucky, the salary range for firefighters generally falls between $27,870 for entry-level positions and $60,720 for more experienced professionals. The median salary sits at $37,150 per year.
How does Kentucky's firefighter pay compare to the national average?
- Firefighter salaries in Kentucky are significantly lower than the national average. On average, Kentucky firefighters earn 35.4% less than their counterparts across the country, with a median of $37,150 annually.
How many firefighters are employed in Kentucky?
- There are approximately 5,150 firefighters employed throughout Kentucky. The earnings for these professionals can vary, with a reported range from $27,870 to $60,720 annually.