Chemists in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $79,800 | $84,150 | -5.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #31 of 52 states | ||
| Employment | 610 jobs | 83,250 jobs | 0.7% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $50,140 | $24.10 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,420 | $29.05 |
| Median | $79,800 | $38.36 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,740 | $46.51 |
| 90th Percentile | $124,080 | $59.66 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Chemists in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $79,800 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +33.3%, chemists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can chemists increase their salary in Kentucky?
Chemists in Kentucky can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Kentucky currently ranks #31 out of 52 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Chemists in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $171,740 |
| Oil and Gas Extraction | $171,740 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $134,430 |
How are Chemists paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Chemists in Kentucky is $79,800, which is 5.2% below the national median of $84,150.