Economist Salary in Lexington, Kentucky
The median economist salary in Lexington, KY is $105,964 per year, which is 7% below the national median and 6.9% above the Kentucky state average.
Economist Pay in Lexington: What to Expect (2026)
Lexington offers a median economist salary of $105,964, which is $6,836 above the Kentucky state average of $99,128. Compared to the national median of $113,940, 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 economists in Lexington spans from $57,660 at the 10th percentile to $184,140 at the 90th percentile — a $126,480 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $60,450, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $172,050. With a population of 322,570, Lexington is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Lexington by Experience
In Lexington, an entry-level economist earns around $60,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $172,050 per year. The local cost of living index is 93% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Lexington, KY
| Percentile | Lexington |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $57,660 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,260 |
| Median (50th) | $105,964 |
| 75th Percentile | $144,150 |
| 90th Percentile | $184,140 |
Economist Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Economist in Lexington
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Lexington and the surrounding Kentucky area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Lexington may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Lexington
Browse open economist positions in Lexington, KY: