Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $32,760. This figure falls below the national average of $40,600, reflecting regional economic factors and potentially lower demand for specialized landscaping services in nonmetropolitan settings. The specific economic landscape and industry concentration within this region directly influence compensation levels for these essential outdoor roles.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $32,760 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 19.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $42,830.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 610 Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers, the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area presents a modest employment base for this profession. The Location Quotient of 0.58 indicates that this occupation is less concentrated here compared to the national average, suggesting a potentially stable but not rapidly expanding job market. While not a high-demand hub, the consistent presence of these roles points to ongoing needs within the community.
Salary Overview
The average Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-19.3%below the national average.
$15.8
$630
$2,730
Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for this nonmetropolitan area is not provided, it is generally assumed that salaries for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers have seen modest growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This growth is typically driven by inflation, increased demand for property maintenance, and a gradual rise in the cost of living, even in nonmetropolitan regions.
Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Salary Distribution in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
Career progression for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers typically involves moving from entry-level positions to more senior or specialized roles. As workers gain experience, their responsibilities often expand to include team supervision, advanced horticultural knowledge, or specialized equipment operation, leading to higher earning potential. The percentile gaps in salary signify this career trajectory, with senior professionals commanding significantly higher compensation than those just starting out.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $23,020 | $11.1 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $24,570 | $11.8 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $30,450 | $14.6 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $40,950 | $19.7 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $42,830 | $20.6 |
Detailed Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$32,760
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,760
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $32,760 in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the take-home pay is lower than the national average for this role, the purchasing power of that salary is equivalent to the national average, suggesting that everyday expenses are neither significantly cheaper nor more expensive than in a typical U.S. location.
Job Market Context
610
Total Jobs
3.558
Per 1K Jobs
0.58
Location Quotient
South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has 0.58x the national average concentration of Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
The Location Quotient (LQ) of 0.58 for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area indicates that this occupation is less prevalent than the national average. An LQ below 1.0 suggests that the job market for these workers is not as saturated as in other parts of the country, which could imply less competition for available positions but also potentially fewer overall job opportunities compared to more concentrated areas.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Lexington-Fayette, KY Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Salary | $37,650↑ 15% | 28 mi |
| Elizabethtown, KY Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Salary | $35,490↑ 8% | 66 mi |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Salary | $38,570↑ 18% | 72 mi |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers Salary | $38,670↑ 18% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers make in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
The median annual salary for a Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $32,760. This typically ranges from $23,020 for entry-level positions to $42,830 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 19.3% lower than the national median of $40,600.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workerss?
No, it is not considered a lucrative area based on salary.The average annual salary of $32,760 is significantly lower than the national average, and while the cost of living is average, the lower pay indicates less financial advantage for these workers.
Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers?
The Cost of Living Index in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?
Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($37,650) and Elizabethtown, KY.
How does the local workforce size affect job prospects?
A local workforce of 610 suggests a moderate number of professionals in the field, indicating a stable but not booming job market for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers in the region.
What does a Location Quotient of 0.58 mean for job seekers?
An LQ of 0.58 signifies that Landscaping and Groundskeeping is less common in this area compared to the national average, potentially meaning fewer specialized roles but also less competition for general positions.
How does the Cost of Living Index impact the $32,760 salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 100, the $32,760 salary has the same purchasing power as it would nationally, meaning expenses are average, but the salary itself is below the national average for the role.
Are there many landscaping jobs per 1,000 workers in this area?
With 3.558 jobs per 1,000 workers, the concentration of landscaping roles is relatively low, suggesting that these jobs are not a dominant sector within the local economy.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 610 employees in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 3.558 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Landscaping and Groundskeeping Workers • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area