Dental Hygienists in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,440 | $94,260 | -17.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #48 of 52 states | ||
| Employment | 2,140 jobs | 219,070 jobs | 1.0% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $60,120 | $28.90 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,020 | $31.74 |
| Median | $77,440 | $37.23 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,020 | $39.91 |
| 90th Percentile | $95,680 | $46.00 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Dental Hygienists in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $77,440 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +37.0%, dental hygienists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can dental hygienists increase their salary in Kentucky?
Dental Hygienists 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 #48 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 Dental Hygienists in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Employment Services | $98,480 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $98,460 |
| Temporary Help Services | $96,810 |
How are Dental Hygienists paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Dental Hygienists in Kentucky is $77,440, which is 17.8% below the national median of $94,260.