Correctional Officer Salary in Kentucky
The median correctional officer salary in Kentucky is $43,161 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $49,610.
Correctional Officer Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for correctional officer compensation. Correctional Officer salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $43,161 per year, correctional officers in Kentucky earn $6,449 less than the national median of $49,610.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $43,161 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,610 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: correctional officers at the 10th percentile earn $28,710, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $67,860 — a $39,150 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 $46,137.
Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Despite slower growth nationally, experienced correctional officers with in-demand specializations continue to command strong salaries.
Correctional Officer Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $30,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,640 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 | $28,710 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,930 |
| Median (50th) | $43,161 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,810 |
| 90th Percentile | $67,860 |
Correctional Officer Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for correctional officers 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 Correctional Officer in Kentucky
Education
Most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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