Respiratory Therapists in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,670 | $80,450 | -18.4% vs US |
| State Rank | #47 of 52 states | ||
| Employment | 2,860 jobs | 136,420 jobs | 2.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,060 | $25.03 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,660 | $29.16 |
| Median | $65,670 | $31.57 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,690 | $36.39 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,110 | $39.00 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Respiratory Therapists in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $65,670 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +40.5%, respiratory therapists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can respiratory therapists increase their salary in Kentucky?
Respiratory Therapists 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 #47 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 Respiratory Therapists in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | $122,210 |
| Offices of All Other Health Practitioners | $101,070 |
| Temporary Help Services | $99,880 |
How are Respiratory Therapists paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Respiratory Therapists in Kentucky is $65,670, which is 18.4% below the national median of $80,450.