Microbiologists in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $62,900 | $87,330 | -28.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #35 of 43 states | ||
| Employment | 80 jobs | 19,760 jobs | 0.4% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $49,670 | $23.88 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,640 | $25.31 |
| Median | $62,900 | $30.24 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,400 | $39.14 |
| 90th Percentile | $113,730 | $54.68 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Microbiologists in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $62,900 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +26.3%, microbiologists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can microbiologists increase their salary in Kentucky?
Microbiologists 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 #35 out of 43 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 Microbiologists in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Ambulatory Health Care Services | $142,790 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $132,790 |
| Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories | $121,390 |
How are Microbiologists paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Microbiologists in Kentucky is $62,900, which is 28.0% below the national median of $87,330.