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Average Machinists Salary in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area

Machinists in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earn an average annual salary of $54,660. This figure is slightly below the national average of $57,000, reflecting the unique economic landscape of nonmetropolitan regions. Factors such as local industry demand and the cost of doing business in this specific area contribute to this salary differential.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $54,660 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 34.7% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $69,480.
  • Outlook: With a total local workforce of 380 machinists, the South Central Kentucky region demonstrates a stable, albeit niche, employment base for this skilled trade. The Location Quotient of 1.16 indicates a slightly higher concentration of machinists compared to the national average, suggesting a steady demand that aligns with the available workforce, pointing towards a robust job market for skilled individuals in this sector.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$54,660

The average Machinists in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area earns-4.1%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$26.3

Weekly

$1,051

Monthly

$4,555

Machinists Salary Distribution in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area

The career path for machinists typically involves significant salary progression based on experience and specialization. Entry-level positions generally start at the lower end of the pay scale, while senior machinists with extensive experience, specialized certifications, or supervisory responsibilities can command salaries well above the average. The percentile gaps in salary distribution signify clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential within the field.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$36,780$17.7
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$40,995$19.7
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$54,650$26.3
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$68,325$32.8
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$69,480$33.4

Detailed Machinists Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$54,660

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$54,660

Adjusted for COL (100)

The average annual salary of $54,660 in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is the national average. This means that the nominal salary offers purchasing power equivalent to the national average, providing a stable financial foundation for residents without the added pressure of higher living expenses.

Job Market Context

380

Total Jobs

2.239

Per 1K Jobs

1.16

Location Quotient

Above Average

With a location quotient of 1.16, South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Machinists roles compared to the national norm.

The Location Quotient of 1.16 for machinists in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area suggests a market where this profession is slightly more concentrated than the national average. This indicates a healthy, established presence of machinists, implying consistent opportunities for employment and a competitive environment where skilled professionals are valued.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Machinists

Comparing salaries near South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area

Hiring Machinistss?

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Machinists make in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area?

The median annual salary for a Machinists in South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area is $54,660. This typically ranges from $36,780 for entry-level positions to $69,480 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 4.1% lower than the national median of $57,000.

Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a lucrative place for Machinists?

Yes, it offers competitive compensation relative to its cost of living.While the average salary is slightly below the national average, the cost of living is also at the national average, making the purchasing power equivalent. The slightly higher concentration of machinists suggests a stable job market.

Is South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area a good place to live for Machinists?

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 ($57,310) and Elizabethtown, KY.

How does the number of machinists in South Central Kentucky compare to the national average?

South Central Kentucky has 2.239 jobs per 1,000 workers in this field, indicating a slightly higher concentration than the national average, as reflected by its Location Quotient of 1.16.

What is the typical salary range for machinists in this region?

While the average is $54,660, salaries can vary significantly. Entry-level positions might start lower, while experienced or specialized machinists can earn considerably more, reflecting the typical salary progression in the trade.

Does the cost of living affect the real value of a machinist's salary in South Central Kentucky?

No, the cost of living in South Central Kentucky is at the national average (100), meaning the $54,660 salary provides purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making it a financially stable region.

Is the job market for machinists growing in South Central Kentucky?

The Location Quotient of 1.16 suggests a stable and slightly concentrated market for machinists, indicating consistent demand and a healthy job environment for skilled professionals in this trade.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 380 employees in the South Central Kentucky nonmetropolitan area area with a job density of 2.239 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.