Surgeon Salary in Kentucky
The median surgeon salary in Kentucky is $221,946 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $255,110.
Surgeon Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #46 out of 50 states for surgeon compensation. Surgeon salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $221,946 per year, surgeons in Kentucky earn $33,164 less than the national median of $255,110.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $221,946 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $255,110 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: surgeons at the 10th percentile earn $104,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $365,400 — a $261,000 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 $237,252.
Nationally, surgeon employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for surgeons across the country.
Surgeon Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level surgeon earns around $113,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $348,000 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 | $104,400 |
| 25th Percentile | $152,250 |
| Median (50th) | $221,946 |
| 75th Percentile | $304,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $365,400 |
Surgeon Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for surgeons 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 Surgeon in Kentucky
Education
Most surgeon positions require a doctoral degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, surgeon employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Surgeons who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $126,054 over your career trajectory.
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