Human Resources Manager Salary in Kentucky
The median human resources manager salary in Kentucky is $113,100 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $130,000.
Human Resources Manager Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for human resources manager compensation. Human Resources Manager salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $113,100 per year, human resources managers in Kentucky earn $16,900 less than the national median of $130,000.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $113,100 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $130,000 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: human resources managers at the 10th percentile earn $68,034, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $180,960 — a $112,926 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 $120,900.
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for human resources managers across the country.
Human Resources Manager Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level human resources manager earns around $56,550, while experienced professionals earn up to $143,550 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 | $68,034 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,870 |
| Median (50th) | $113,100 |
| 75th Percentile | $145,290 |
| 90th Percentile | $180,960 |
Human Resources Manager Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for human resources managers 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 Human Resources Manager in Kentucky
Education
Most human resources manager positions require a bachelor's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, human resources manager employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Human Resources Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $30,450 over your career trajectory.
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