Project Manager Salary in Kentucky
The median project manager salary in Kentucky is $82,972 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $95,370.
Project Manager Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for project manager compensation. Project Manager salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $82,972 per year, project managers in Kentucky earn $12,398 less than the national median of $95,370.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $82,972 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $95,370 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: project managers at the 10th percentile earn $48,894, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $138,417 — a $89,523 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 $88,694.
Nationally, project manager employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for project managers across the country.
Project Manager Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level project manager earns around $50,460, while experienced professionals earn up to $126,150 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 | $48,894 |
| 25th Percentile | $63,510 |
| Median (50th) | $82,972 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,620 |
| 90th Percentile | $138,417 |
Project Manager Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for project managers 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 Project Manager in Kentucky
Education
Most project manager positions require a bachelor's degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, project manager employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Project Managers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $43,178 over your career trajectory.
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