Soil and Plant Scientists in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,700 | $71,410 | -10.8% vs US |
| State Rank | #35 of 47 states | ||
| Employment | 180 jobs | 16,600 jobs | 1.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,730 | $17.66 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,060 | $25.03 |
| Median | $63,700 | $30.63 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,060 | $41.85 |
| 90th Percentile | $113,030 | $54.34 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Soil and Plant Scientists in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $63,700 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +40.1%, soil and plant scientists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can soil and plant scientists increase their salary in Kentucky?
Soil and Plant Scientists 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 47 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 Soil and Plant Scientists in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Chemical Manufacturing (3251, 3252, 3253, and 3259 only) | $105,230 |
| Chemical Manufacturing | $104,800 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $102,980 |
How are Soil and Plant Scientists paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Soil and Plant Scientists in Kentucky is $63,700, which is 10.8% below the national median of $71,410.