Archivist Salary in Kentucky
The median archivist salary in Kentucky is $51,017 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $58,640.
Archivist Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for archivist compensation. Archivist salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $51,017 per year, archivists in Kentucky earn $7,623 less than the national median of $58,640.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $51,017 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $58,640 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: archivists at the 10th percentile earn $31,320, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $81,780 — a $50,460 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Kentucky for this role is Lexington, where the median reaches $54,535.
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for archivists across the country.
Archivist Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level archivist earns around $33,060, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,560 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Kentucky
| Percentile | KY Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,020 |
| Median (50th) | $51,017 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $81,780 |
Archivist Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for archivists in Kentucky include Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and Owensboro. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Archivist in Kentucky
Education
Most archivist positions require a master's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, archivist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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