Healthcare Kentucky (KY) Rank #46 of 50

Genetic Counselor Salary in Kentucky

The median genetic counselor salary in Kentucky is $78,291 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $89,990.

Median Salary
$78,291
vs National
$-11,699
State Rank
#46 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Genetic Counselor Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)

Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for genetic counselor compensation. Genetic Counselor salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $78,291 per year, genetic counselors in Kentucky earn $11,699 less than the national median of $89,990.

A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $78,291 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $89,990 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: genetic counselors at the 10th percentile earn $52,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $113,100 — a $60,900 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 $83,691.

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Kentucky and beyond.

Genetic Counselor Salary in Kentucky by Experience

In Kentucky, an entry-level genetic counselor earns around $53,940, while experienced professionals earn up to $108,750 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$53,940
$-8,060 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$79,170
$-11,830 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$108,750
$-16,250 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Kentucky

Percentile KY Salary
10th Percentile $52,200
25th Percentile $64,380
Median (50th) $78,291
75th Percentile $93,960
90th Percentile $113,100

Genetic Counselor Salary by City in Kentucky

The largest employment areas for genetic counselors 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 Genetic Counselor in Kentucky

Education

Most genetic counselor positions require a master's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

GeneticsPatient CounselingPedigree AnalysisGenetic TestingCommunicationEthics

Job Outlook in Kentucky

Nationally, genetic counselor employment is projected to grow 26% over the next decade (much faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Genetic Counselor Salary in Kentucky

How much does a Genetic Counselor make in Kentucky? ▼
The median genetic counselor salary in Kentucky is $78,291 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $89,990. Salaries range from $52,200 (10th percentile) to $113,100 (90th percentile).
How much does a Genetic Counselor make per hour in Kentucky? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $78,291, a genetic counselor in Kentucky earns approximately $38 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Kentucky a good state for genetic counselors? ▼
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for genetic counselor pay. The cost of living index is 87% of the national average. Entry-level genetic counselors earn $53,940, while senior professionals earn $108,750.
How does Kentucky compare to other states for genetic counselor salary? ▼
The highest paying state for genetic counselors is Hawaii at $160,182. Kentucky's median of $78,291 ranks #46 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Alabama ($78,291) and Kansas ($78,291).
What is the entry-level genetic counselor salary in Kentucky? ▼
An entry-level genetic counselor in Kentucky earns approximately $53,940 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $79,170. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $108,750.
What city in Kentucky pays genetic counselors the most? ▼
Lexington is the highest paying city in Kentucky for genetic counselors, with a median salary of $83,691. Other cities include Louisville and Bowling Green.