LPN salary in Kentucky
The median LPN in Kentucky earned $60,460 a year in 2025, $3,940 (6%) below the $64,400 national median. That ranks 42nd of 51 states.
- Median yearly pay
- $60,460
- Average yearly pay
- $60,460
- Employed in Kentucky
- 8,570
How Kentucky compares
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, state estimates. Pay is before tax and does not adjust for cost of living, which is higher in some states than others.
Nursing pay in Kentucky
| Role | Median yearly pay | Employed |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurse | $81,040 | 50,300 |
| LPN or LVN | $60,460 | 8,570 |
| Nurse practitioner | $122,870 | 4,770 |
A nurse practitioner in Kentucky earns a median $41,830 more than a registered nurse ($122,870 against $81,040). A registered nurse earns a median $20,580 more than an LPN or LVN here ($81,040 against $60,460).
Next steps
Common questions
How much does an LPN or LVN make in Kentucky?
The median is $60,460 a year, according to BLS data for May 2025. Half of licensed practical and vocational nurses in Kentucky earn more and half earn less.
Is Kentucky a high-paying state for licensed practical and vocational nurses?
Kentucky ranks 42nd of 51 states on median pay for this job. The national median is $64,400, so Kentucky pays 6% below it. The highest median is $83,150 in Washington.
How many licensed practical and vocational nurses work in Kentucky?
BLS counted 8,570 licensed practical and vocational nurses employed in Kentucky in May 2025.
Why is the average different from the median?
The median is the middle wage: half of workers earn less. The average adds every wage and divides, so a few very high earners pull it up. In Kentucky the average is $60,460.
What do you need to work as an LPN or LVN in Kentucky?
Kentucky requires a practical nursing certificate or diploma and a passing NCLEX-PN score, and a state license.