Emergency Medicine Physician Salary in Kentucky
The median emergency medicine physician salary in Kentucky is $269,700 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $310,000.
Emergency Medicine Physician Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for emergency medicine physician compensation. Emergency Medicine Physician salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $269,700 per year, emergency medicine physicians in Kentucky earn $40,300 less than the national median of $310,000.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $269,700 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $310,000 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: emergency medicine physicians at the 10th percentile earn $156,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $413,250 — a $256,650 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 $288,300.
Nationally, emergency medicine physician employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emergency medicine physicians across the country.
Emergency Medicine Physician Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level emergency medicine physician earns around $160,950, while experienced professionals earn up to $400,200 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 | $156,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $208,800 |
| Median (50th) | $269,700 |
| 75th Percentile | $348,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $413,250 |
Emergency Medicine Physician Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for emergency medicine physicians 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 Emergency Medicine Physician in Kentucky
Education
Most emergency medicine physician positions require a doctoral degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, emergency medicine physician employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Emergency Medicine Physicians who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $130,500 over your career trajectory.
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