Dentist Salary in Kentucky
Dentist pay in Kentucky, explained
Dentists in Kentucky earn a median of $134,160 per year ($64.50 per hour), which is 22% below the national median of $170,950. Entry-level workers earn around $44,820, while the most experienced dentists reach about $344,040. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within Kentucky.
Is $134,160 good pay in Kentucky?
Adjusted for Kentucky's cost of living (which runs 90% of the U.S. average), that $134,160 is worth about $148,804 in national buying power — ranking Kentucky #44 for real pay (vs #44 on the sticker number).
Dentist pay by experience in Kentucky
Dentist pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs KY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky (here) | $134,160 | $148,804 | — |
| Tennessee | $215,290 | $234,342 | −$81,130 |
| Missouri | $204,960 | $225,685 | −$70,800 |
| Virginia | $197,110 | $194,958 | −$62,950 |
| West Virginia | $170,370 | $190,364 | −$36,210 |
| Ohio | $167,410 | $180,449 | −$33,250 |
| Indiana | $166,650 | $178,562 | −$32,490 |
| Illinois | $156,110 | $156,176 | −$21,950 |
Dentist in Kentucky: FAQ
How much do dentists make in Kentucky?
Dentists in Kentucky earn a median of $134,160 per year ($64.50 per hour), compared with $170,950 nationally.
Does Kentucky pay dentists well?
At $134,160, Kentucky pays 22% below the national median for dentists. An estimated 790 work in the state.