Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Kentucky
Based on 23K+ workers in Kentucky
Median Annual Salary (KY)
$38,370
$18.45/hr
vs National Average
$41,812
-8.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$30K – $46K
23K employed in Kentucky
The median Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Kentucky is $38,370 annually, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is 8.2% lower than the national average, with a typical salary range falling between $30,390 and $46,450 per year for over 23,000 employed CNAs in the state.
Several factors influence a Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Kentucky. These can include years of experience, the specific healthcare facility where one is employed, and the geographic location within Kentucky. Specialized certifications or additional responsibilities may also lead to higher earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $30,390 |
| 25th percentile | $36,150 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $38,370 |
| 75th percentile | $44,120 |
| 90th percentile | $46,450 |
Top-Paying Industries for Nursing Assistant (CNA) (U.S.)
Which industries pay Nursing Assistant (CNA)s the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Nursing Assistant (CNA)s in Kentucky tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $60,710 | 40 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $47,810 | 49K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $47,050 | 47K |
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $46,920 | 430 |
| Wholesale Trade | $46,540 | — |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Kentucky vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Kentucky) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,370 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,521 |
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 | $38,370 | $41,812 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,521 | $43,066 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,150 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $38,370 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $44,120 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $46,450 |
Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salary in Other States
Related Nursing Assistant (CNA) Salaries in Kentucky
How other high-demand occupations in Kentucky compare to Nursing Assistant (CNA) ($38,370 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in KY | $558,180 | +1354.7% | $268.36/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in KY | $347,960 | +806.9% | $167.29/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in KY | $317,110 | +726.5% | $152.46/hr |
| Radiologist in KY | $279,990 | +629.7% | $134.61/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in KY | $248,730 | +548.2% | $119.58/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in KY | $241,530 | +529.5% | $116.12/hr |
| Psychiatrist in KY | $237,770 | +519.7% | $114.31/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in KY | $222,520 | +479.9% | $106.98/hr |
| Podiatrist in KY | $201,260 | +424.5% | $96.76/hr |
| Pediatrician in KY | $175,690 | +357.9% | $84.47/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in KY | $169,390 | +341.5% | $81.44/hr |
| Surgeon in KY | $162,160 | +322.6% | $77.96/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly pay for a CNA in Kentucky?
- The average hourly pay for a CNA in Kentucky is around $18 per hour. This is derived from the median annual salary of $38,370, offering a good benchmark for hourly earnings.
How much can a CNA in Kentucky expect to earn annually?
- A CNA in Kentucky can expect to earn an annual salary that typically falls between $30,390 and $46,450. The median annual salary is $38,370, providing a central point within this earning range.
Is the CNA salary in Kentucky lower than the national average?
- Yes, the Nursing Assistant (CNA) salary in Kentucky is generally lower than the national average. It is approximately 8.2% below the national median salary.
What is the total number of employed CNAs in Kentucky?
- There are approximately 23,410 employed Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in Kentucky. This number indicates a substantial workforce within the state's healthcare sector.