EMT/Paramedic Salary in Kentucky
The median emt/paramedic salary in Kentucky is $33,869 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $38,930.
EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. EMT/Paramedic salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $33,869 per year, emt/paramedics in Kentucky earn $5,061 less than the national median of $38,930.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $33,869 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,930 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $22,620, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $53,940 — a $31,320 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 $36,205.
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emt/paramedics across the country.
EMT/Paramedic Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $24,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $50,460 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.
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Earning $33,869? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Kentucky
| Percentile | KY Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $22,620 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,970 |
| Median (50th) | $33,869 |
| 75th Percentile | $43,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $53,940 |
EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics 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 EMT/Paramedic in Kentucky
Education
Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
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