Dental Hygienist Salary in Kentucky
Dental Hygienist pay in Kentucky, explained
Dental hygienists in Kentucky earn a median of $78,830 per year ($37.90 per hour), which is 20% below the national median of $98,100. Entry-level workers earn around $61,280, while the most experienced dental hygienists reach about $98,770. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within Kentucky.
Is $78,830 good pay in Kentucky?
Adjusted for Kentucky's cost of living (which runs 90% of the U.S. average), that $78,830 is worth about $87,434 in national buying power — ranking Kentucky #44 for real pay (vs #47 on the sticker number).
Dental Hygienist pay by experience in Kentucky
Dental Hygienist pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs KY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky (here) | $78,830 | $87,434 | — |
| Virginia | $102,950 | $101,826 | −$24,120 |
| Illinois | $96,670 | $96,711 | −$17,840 |
| Missouri | $92,750 | $102,128 | −$13,920 |
| Indiana | $92,330 | $98,930 | −$13,500 |
| Ohio | $88,990 | $95,921 | −$10,160 |
| Tennessee | $84,640 | $92,130 | −$5,810 |
| West Virginia | $73,840 | $82,506 | +$4,990 |
Dental Hygienist in Kentucky: FAQ
How much do dental hygienists make in Kentucky?
Dental hygienists in Kentucky earn a median of $78,830 per year ($37.90 per hour), compared with $98,100 nationally.
Does Kentucky pay dental hygienists well?
At $78,830, Kentucky pays 20% below the national median for dental hygienists. An estimated 2,070 work in the state.