Nuclear Engineer Salary in Owensboro, Kentucky
The median nuclear engineer salary in Owensboro, KY is $98,712 per year, which is 18% below the national median and 5.7% below the Kentucky state average.
Nuclear Engineer Pay in Owensboro: What to Expect (2026)
Owensboro offers a median nuclear engineer salary of $98,712, which is $6,019 below the Kentucky state average of $104,731. Compared to the national median of $120,380, Owensboro pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Owensboro's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 82% of the national average. This means the $98,712 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $120,380 in an average-cost city. This makes Owensboro an attractive option for nuclear engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for nuclear engineers in Owensboro spans from $62,320 at the 10th percentile to $145,960 at the 90th percentile — a $83,640 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $63,960, while senior nuclear engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $141,040. Owensboro is a smaller market (pop. 60,183), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Owensboro by Experience
In Owensboro, an entry-level nuclear engineer earns around $63,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $141,040 per year. The local cost of living index is 82% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Owensboro, KY
| Percentile | Owensboro |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $62,320 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,720 |
| Median (50th) | $98,712 |
| 75th Percentile | $121,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $145,960 |
Nuclear Engineer Salary in Other Kentucky Cities
How to Become a Nuclear Engineer in Owensboro
Education
Most nuclear engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Owensboro and the surrounding Kentucky area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, nuclear engineer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Owensboro may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Nuclear Engineer Jobs in Owensboro
Browse open nuclear engineer positions in Owensboro, KY: