Truck Driver Salary in Kentucky
The median truck driver salary in Kentucky is $43,430 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $49,920.
Truck Driver Salary Overview in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky ranks #47 out of 50 states for truck driver compensation. Truck Driver salaries in Kentucky are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $43,430 per year, truck drivers in Kentucky earn $6,490 less than the national median of $49,920.
A key advantage of working in Kentucky is its below-average cost of living (87% of the national index). This means the $43,430 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,920 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Kentucky is significant: truck drivers at the 10th percentile earn $28,884, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $67,860 — a $38,976 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 $46,426.
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for truck drivers across the country.
Truck Driver Salary in Kentucky by Experience
In Kentucky, an entry-level truck driver earns around $30,450, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,640 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Kentucky
| Percentile | KY Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,884 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,974 |
| Median (50th) | $43,430 |
| 75th Percentile | $55,506 |
| 90th Percentile | $67,860 |
Truck Driver Salary by City in Kentucky
The largest employment areas for truck drivers 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 Truck Driver in Kentucky
Education
Most truck driver positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Kentucky
Nationally, truck driver employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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