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Construction & Trades · Kentucky

How to Become a Highway Maintenance Workers in Kentucky

Highway Maintenance Workers in Kentucky earn a median salary of $36,900/year, which is 25% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a highway maintenance workers takes home approximately $1,106/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$37K
Median salary in Kentucky
-25%
vs. national average
4.0%
State income tax
2,350
Employed in Kentucky

What a highway maintenance workers can afford in Kentucky

Gross annual salary$36,900
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.0% state tax)$2,518/mo
Median 2BR rent (Kentucky)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home56.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$36,900/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,106/mo

Becoming a highway maintenance workers in Kentucky

1

Meet education requirements

Highway Maintenance Workers positions in Kentucky typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many highway maintenance workers 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 highway maintenance workerss. 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 2,350 highway maintenance workers. The highest concentrations are in Louisville/Jefferson County and Lexington-Fayette.

Highway Maintenance Workers salary by metro area in Kentucky

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Louisville/Jefferson County$44K$21.29/hr400
Lexington-Fayette$40K$19.39/hr170
Bowling Green$38K$18.11/hr90
Paducah$38K$18.09/hr50
Owensboro$37K$17.71/hr40
Elizabethtown$36K$17.17/hr80

Highway Maintenance Workers salary range in Kentucky

10th percentile (entry)
$30K
25th percentile
$33K
Median (50th)
$37K
75th percentile
$42K
90th percentile (senior)
$48K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a highway maintenance workers make in Kentucky?

The median highway maintenance workers salary in Kentucky is $36,900 per year ($17.74/hr). This is 25% below the national median of $49,070. Salaries range from $29,700 to $48,110.

What are the requirements to become a highway maintenance workers in Kentucky?

Highway Maintenance Workers positions in Kentucky typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Kentucky may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kentucky licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a highway maintenance workers afford to live in Kentucky?

At the median salary of $36,900, a highway maintenance workers in Kentucky would take home approximately $2,518/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 56.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for highway maintenance workers in Kentucky?

The highest paying metro areas for highway maintenance workers in Kentucky are Louisville/Jefferson County ($44,280), Lexington-Fayette ($40,340), Bowling Green ($37,660). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Kentucky have state income tax for highway maintenance workers?

Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $36,900 salary, this means roughly $1,476/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.