Computer Hardware Engineers in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,750 | $155,020 | -42.7% vs US |
| State Rank | #43 of 45 states | ||
| Employment | — | 75,710 jobs | |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,710 | $29.19 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,780 | $36.91 |
| Median | $88,750 | $42.67 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,370 | $48.74 |
| 90th Percentile | $125,260 | $60.22 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Computer Hardware Engineers in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $88,750 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of -0.8%, computer hardware engineers remain an established career option.
How can computer hardware engineers increase their salary in Kentucky?
Computer Hardware Engineers 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 #43 out of 45 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 Computer Hardware Engineers in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services | $212,410 |
| Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services | $212,410 |
| Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services | $212,410 |
How are Computer Hardware Engineers paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Computer Hardware Engineers in Kentucky is $88,750, which is 42.7% below the national median of $155,020.