Physician Assistant Salary in Kentucky
The median physician assistant salary in Kentucky is $109,629 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $126,010.
Physician Assistant Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for physician assistant compensation. Physician Assistant salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $109,629 per year, physician assistants in Kentucky earn $16,381 less than the national median of $126,010.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $109,629 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $126,010 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: physician assistants at the 10th percentile earn $73,080, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $151,380 — a $78,300 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 $117,189.
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in Kentucky and beyond.
Physician Assistant Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $76,560, while experienced professionals earn up to $140,940 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 | $73,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $92,220 |
| Median (50th) | $109,629 |
| 75th Percentile | $131,370 |
| 90th Percentile | $151,380 |
Physician Assistant Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for physician assistants 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 Physician Assistant in Kentucky
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physician Assistants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,311 over your career trajectory.
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