Healthcare Kentucky (KY) Rank #46 of 50

Veterinarian Salary in Kentucky

The median veterinarian salary in Kentucky is $89,836 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $103,260.

Median Salary
$89,836
vs National
$-13,424
State Rank
#46 of 50
Cost of Living
87%

Veterinarian Salary in Kentucky by Experience

In Kentucky, an entry-level veterinarian earns around $59,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $134,850 per year. The cost of living index in Kentucky is 87% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$59,160
$-8,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$91,350
$-13,650 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$134,850
$-20,150 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Kentucky

Percentile KY Salary
10th Percentile $56,724
25th Percentile $69,948
Median (50th) $89,836
75th Percentile $116,928
90th Percentile $151,554

Major Cities for Veterinarians in Kentucky

The largest employment areas for veterinarians in Kentucky include Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and Owensboro. Salaries in major metro areas may be higher due to increased demand and cost of living.

Louisville, KY
Metro area for veterinarian employment
Lexington, KY
Metro area for veterinarian employment
Bowling Green, KY
Metro area for veterinarian employment
Owensboro, KY
Metro area for veterinarian employment
Covington, KY
Metro area for veterinarian employment

How to Become a Veterinarian in Kentucky

Education

Most veterinarian positions require a doctoral degree. Kentucky has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

DiagnosisSurgeryPharmacologyAnimal HandlingClient CommunicationRadiology

Job Outlook in Kentucky

Nationally, veterinarian employment is projected to grow 19% over the next decade (much faster than average). Kentucky's demand may vary based on local industry trends.