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Repair & Maintenance · Kentucky

How to Become a Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Kentucky

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics in Kentucky earn a median salary of $39,940/year, which is 20% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a automotive service technicians and mechanics takes home approximately $1,299/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$40K
Median salary in Kentucky
-20%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
10,910
Employed in Kentucky

What a automotive service technicians and mechanics can afford in Kentucky

Gross annual salary$39,940
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$2,711/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kentucky)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home52.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$39,940/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,299/mo

Becoming a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Kentucky

1

Meet education requirements

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in Kentucky typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many automotive service technicians and mechanics positions in Kentucky require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Kentucky licensure or certification

Kentucky may require specific licensing or professional certification for automotive service technicians and mechanicss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Kentucky Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Kentucky

Kentucky employs 10,910 automotive service technicians and mechanics. The highest concentrations are in Louisville/Jefferson County and Paducah.

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary by metro area in Kentucky

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Louisville/Jefferson County$47K$22.42/hr3,590
Paducah$44K$20.97/hr290
Bowling Green$43K$20.7/hr470
Owensboro$42K$20.29/hr280
Lexington-Fayette$41K$19.47/hr1,440
Elizabethtown$39K$18.71/hr340

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics salary range in Kentucky

10th percentile (entry)
$28K
25th percentile
$33K
Median (50th)
$40K
75th percentile
$58K
90th percentile (senior)
$69K
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Full automotive service technicians and mechanics salary breakdown in Kentucky
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Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a automotive service technicians and mechanics make in Kentucky?

The median automotive service technicians and mechanics salary in Kentucky is $39,940 per year ($19.2/hr). This is 20% below the national median of $49,670. Salaries range from $28,070 to $68,830.

What are the requirements to become a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Kentucky?

Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics positions in Kentucky typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Kentucky may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kentucky licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a automotive service technicians and mechanics afford to live in Kentucky?

At the median salary of $39,940, a automotive service technicians and mechanics in Kentucky would take home approximately $2,711/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 52.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Kentucky?

The highest paying metro areas for automotive service technicians and mechanics in Kentucky are Louisville/Jefferson County ($46,640), Paducah ($43,610), Bowling Green ($43,050). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kentucky have state income tax for automotive service technicians and mechanics?

Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $39,940 salary, this means roughly $1,598/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.