Probation Officer Salary in Kentucky
The median probation officer salary in Kentucky is $52,418 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $60,250.
Probation Officer Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for probation officer compensation. Probation Officer salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $52,418 per year, probation officers in Kentucky earn $7,832 less than the national median of $60,250.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $52,418 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $60,251 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: probation officers at the 10th percentile earn $33,060, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $80,040 — a $46,980 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 $56,033.
Nationally, probation officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for probation officers across the country.
Probation Officer Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level probation officer earns around $34,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,560 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $52,418? 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 | $33,060 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,760 |
| Median (50th) | $52,418 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,120 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,040 |
Probation Officer Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for probation officers 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 Probation Officer in Kentucky
Education
Most probation officer positions require a bachelor's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, probation officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 96,500 other Probation Officers.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Probation Officer Roles in Kentucky?
Get matched with recruiters hiring probation officers in Kentucky at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: