Slaughterers and Meat Packers in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $41,080 | $39,790 | +3.2% vs US |
| State Rank | #17 of 48 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 740 jobs | 67,500 jobs | 1.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $30,920 | $14.86 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,150 | $17.86 |
| Median | $41,080 | $19.75 |
| 75th Percentile | $47,170 | $22.68 |
| 90th Percentile | $47,170 | $22.68 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Slaughterers and Meat Packers in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $41,080 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +52.3%, slaughterers and meat packers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can slaughterers and meat packers increase their salary in Kentucky?
Slaughterers and Meat Packers 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 #17 out of 48 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 Slaughterers and Meat Packers in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Animal Slaughtering and Processing | $40,170 |
| Food Manufacturing | $40,080 |
| Animal Food Manufacturing | $39,860 |
How are Slaughterers and Meat Packers paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Slaughterers and Meat Packers in Kentucky is $41,080, which is 3.2% above the national median of $39,790.