How Machine Learning Engineers 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) | $107,500 | $81,600 | $139,700 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $133,600 | $101,500 | $173,700 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $153,600 | $116,700 | $199,700 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $184,300 | $140,000 | $239,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $208,800 | $158,700 | $271,500 |
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 Machine Learning Engineer salary in Kentucky is $153,600 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $116,700 and the 75th at $199,700.
Pay-wise, Kentucky sits -15% below the national Machine Learning Engineer median ($180,700). 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 Machine Learning Engineers (10–14 years of experience) in Kentucky earn around $184,300 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $208,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Kentucky ranks 42nd for Machine Learning Engineer pay. The highest-paying state pays around $298,200 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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