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Transportation · Kentucky

How to Become a Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels in Kentucky

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels in Kentucky earn a median salary of $81,820/year, which is 4% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels takes home approximately $3,811/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$82K
Median salary in Kentucky
-4%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
1,490
Employed in Kentucky

What a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels can afford in Kentucky

Gross annual salary$81,820
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$5,223/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kentucky)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$81,820/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,811/mo

Becoming a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Kentucky

1

Meet education requirements

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels positions in Kentucky typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels 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 captains, mates, and pilots of water vesselss. 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 1,490 captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels. The highest concentrations are in Paducah and Louisville/Jefferson County.

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels salary by metro area in Kentucky

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Paducah$89K$42.6/hr1,080
Louisville/Jefferson County$82K$39.19/hr630

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels salary range in Kentucky

10th percentile (entry)
$49K
25th percentile
$61K
Median (50th)
$82K
75th percentile
$134K
90th percentile (senior)
$163K
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Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels make in Kentucky?

The median captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels salary in Kentucky is $81,820 per year ($39.34/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $85,540. Salaries range from $49,410 to $162,600.

What are the requirements to become a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Kentucky?

Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels positions in Kentucky typically require No formal educational credential. Kentucky may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kentucky licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels afford to live in Kentucky?

At the median salary of $81,820, a captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Kentucky would take home approximately $5,223/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Kentucky?

The highest paying metro areas for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels in Kentucky are Paducah ($88,600), Louisville/Jefferson County ($81,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kentucky have state income tax for captains, mates, and pilots of water vessels?

Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $81,820 salary, this means roughly $3,273/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.