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Average Production Occupations Salary in Kentucky

In Kentucky, the average annual salary for Production Occupations stands at $49,360, a figure that closely mirrors the national average of $49,710. This slight divergence is often influenced by regional economic factors, industry concentration, and the specific demand within the state's manufacturing and production sectors. Understanding these local dynamics is key to grasping compensation trends.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $49,360 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 19.2% over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $70,490.
  • Outlook: Kentucky boasts a substantial workforce of 190,670 individuals in Production Occupations, indicating a significant presence in the state's economy. With a Location Quotient of 1.69, this sector is considerably more concentrated in Kentucky than the national average, suggesting robust demand and a well-established industry infrastructure that supports a large number of jobs.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$49,360

The average Production Occupations in Kentucky earns-0.7%below the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$23.7

Weekly

$949

Monthly

$4,113

Production Occupations Salary Distribution in Kentucky

Career progression within Production Occupations in Kentucky typically leads to significant salary increases. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, but with accumulated experience, specialized skills, and demonstrated performance, individuals can advance to senior or supervisory roles. The widening gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries reflects these opportunities for substantial career and financial growth.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT.10% (Entry)$31,410$15.1
JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks.25% (Junior)$37,020$17.8
Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting.50% (Median)$46,560$22.4
Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance.75% (Senior)$61,700$29.7
SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman.90% (Expert)$70,490$33.9

Detailed Production Occupations Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$49,360

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$54,967

Adjusted for COL (89.8)

The average annual salary of $49,360 in Kentucky presents a favorable financial outlook when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 89.8. This index, which is below the national average of 100, indicates that everyday expenses such as housing, utilities, and transportation are generally more affordable in Kentucky, allowing the nominal salary to potentially offer a higher purchasing power.

Job Market Context

190,670

Total Jobs

95.637

Per 1K Jobs

1.69

Location Quotient

Major Hub

Kentucky has 1.7x the national concentration of Production Occupations jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.

Kentucky's Location Quotient of 1.69 for Production Occupations signifies a market where this sector is significantly more prevalent than the national average. This high concentration suggests a competitive yet abundant job market, with numerous opportunities available for skilled professionals. Employers may actively seek talent, while workers benefit from a specialized and established industry presence.

Nearby Job Markets

Nearby Cities for Production Occupations

Comparing salaries near Kentucky

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Production Occupations make in Kentucky?

The median annual salary for a Production Occupations in Kentucky is $49,360. This typically ranges from $31,410 for entry-level positions to $70,490 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Kentucky is 0.7% lower than the national median of $49,710.

Is Kentucky a lucrative place for Production Occupations?

Yes, with a favorable cost of living.Kentucky offers a robust job market for Production Occupations with a high concentration of roles. Combined with a cost of living below the national average, the $49,360 salary provides good purchasing power.

Is Kentucky a good place to live for Production Occupations?

With a Cost of Living Index of 89.8 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.

Where are the highest paying cities near Kentucky?

Some top paying nearby cities include Lexington-Fayette, KY ($54,940) and Elizabethtown, KY.

How does Kentucky's Production Occupations salary compare to the national average?

The average annual salary for Production Occupations in Kentucky is $49,360, which is slightly below the national average of $49,710.

What does the Location Quotient of 1.69 mean for Production Occupations in Kentucky?

A Location Quotient of 1.69 indicates that Production Occupations are 69% more concentrated in Kentucky than the national average, suggesting a strong industry presence and demand.

How does the cost of living in Kentucky affect the salary for Production Occupations?

With a Cost of Living Index of 89.8 (below the national average of 100), the $49,360 salary in Kentucky can offer greater purchasing power compared to areas with a higher cost of living.

What is the total workforce size for Production Occupations in Kentucky?

Kentucky employs a significant workforce of 190,670 individuals in Production Occupations, highlighting the sector's importance to the state's economy.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 190,670 employees in the Kentucky area with a job density of 95.637 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.