How Firefighters in Kentucky get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Kentucky compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $39,900 | $30,300 | $51,800 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $49,500 | $37,600 | $64,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $57,000 | $43,300 | $74,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $68,400 | $51,900 | $88,900 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $77,500 | $58,800 | $100,700 |
Top occupations by median pay in Kentucky — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Kentucky
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Firefighter salary in Kentucky is $57,000 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $43,300 and the 75th at $74,100.
Pay-wise, Kentucky sits -15% below the national Firefighter median ($67,100). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Firefighters (10–14 years of experience) in Kentucky earn around $68,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $77,500 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Kentucky ranks 42nd for Firefighter pay. The highest-paying state pays around $110,600 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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