Data Engineer Salary in Kentucky
The median data engineer salary in Kentucky is $103,750 per year, which is 17% below the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #44 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. Data Engineer salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $103,750 per year, data engineers in Kentucky earn $21,250 less than the national median of $125,000.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $103,750 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $119,253 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $64,740, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $157,700 — a $92,960 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 $111,250.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Kentucky and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level data engineer earns around $66,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $149,400 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Kentucky
| Percentile | KY Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $64,740 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,000 |
| Median (50th) | $103,750 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,140 |
| 90th Percentile | $157,700 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for data engineers 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 Data Engineer in Kentucky
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $45,650 over your career trajectory.
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