Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $55,590 | $57,440 | -3.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #33 of 54 states | ||
| Employment | 33,430 jobs | 2,070,480 jobs | 1.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $38,120 | $18.33 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,630 | $22.90 |
| Median | $55,590 | $26.73 |
| 75th Percentile | $65,210 | $31.35 |
| 90th Percentile | $93,030 | $44.73 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $55,590 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +46.3%, heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers increase their salary in Kentucky?
Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers 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 #33 out of 54 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 Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Computer Systems Design and Related Services | $102,570 |
| Motion Picture and Video Industries | $89,630 |
| Motion Picture and Sound Recording Industries | $89,610 |
How are Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers in Kentucky is $55,590, which is 3.2% below the national median of $57,440.