Interpreter Salary in Kentucky
The median interpreter salary in Kentucky is $49,668 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $57,090.
Interpreter Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for interpreter compensation. Interpreter salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $49,668 per year, interpreters in Kentucky earn $7,422 less than the national median of $57,090.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $49,668 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $57,090 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: interpreters at the 10th percentile earn $27,840, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $87,870 — a $60,030 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 $53,094.
Nationally, interpreter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for interpreters across the country.
Interpreter Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level interpreter earns around $30,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,650 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.
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Earning $49,668? 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 | $27,840 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,540 |
| Median (50th) | $49,668 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,860 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,870 |
Interpreter Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for interpreters 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 Interpreter in Kentucky
Education
Most interpreter positions require a bachelor's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, interpreter 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 Interpreters who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,982 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Interpreter Roles in Kentucky?
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