Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in Kentucky
The median occupational health & safety specialist salary in Kentucky is $68,504 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $78,740.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for occupational health & safety specialist compensation. Occupational Health & Safety Specialist salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $68,504 per year, occupational health & safety specialists in Kentucky earn $10,236 less than the national median of $78,740.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $68,504 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $78,740 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: occupational health & safety specialists at the 10th percentile earn $41,760, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $106,140 — a $64,380 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 $73,228.
Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for occupational health & safety specialists across the country.
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level occupational health & safety specialist earns around $43,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $102,660 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in Kentucky
| Percentile | KY Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $41,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $53,940 |
| Median (50th) | $68,504 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $106,140 |
Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for occupational health & safety specialists 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 Occupational Health & Safety Specialist in Kentucky
Education
Most occupational health & safety specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Occupational Health & Safety Specialists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $34,156 over your career trajectory.
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