Cosmetologist Salary in Lexington, Kentucky
The median cosmetologist salary in Lexington, KY is $32,624 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 6.9% above the Kentucky state average.
Cosmetologist Pay in Lexington: What to Expect (2026)
Lexington offers a median cosmetologist salary of $32,624, which is $2,104 above the Kentucky state average of $30,520. Compared to the national median of $35,080, Lexington pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Lexington's cost of living is 93% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for cosmetologists in Lexington spans from $20,460 at the 10th percentile to $53,940 at the 90th percentile — a $33,480 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $22,320, while senior cosmetologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $51,150. With a population of 322,570, Lexington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Cosmetologist Salary in Lexington by Experience
In Lexington, an entry-level cosmetologist earns around $22,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $51,150 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lexington, KY
| Percentile | Lexington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $20,460 |
| 25th Percentile | $25,110 |
| Median (50th) | $32,624 |
| 75th Percentile | $42,780 |
| 90th Percentile | $53,940 |
Cosmetologist Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Lexington
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Lexington and the surrounding Kentucky area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, cosmetologist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Lexington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Cosmetologist Jobs in Lexington
Browse open cosmetologist positions in Lexington, KY: