How to Become a Registered Nurses in Kentucky
Registered Nurses in Kentucky earn a median salary of $79,910/year, which is 15% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $3,705/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in Kentucky
Becoming a registered nurses in Kentucky
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses positions in Kentucky typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in Kentucky. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Kentucky licensure or certification
Kentucky may require specific licensing or professional certification for registered nursess. Requirements vary by state — contact the Kentucky Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Kentucky
Kentucky employs 48,170 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Lexington-Fayette and Louisville/Jefferson County.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in Kentucky
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexington-Fayette | $83K | $39.8/hr | 8,110 |
| Louisville/Jefferson County | $81K | $39.04/hr | 17,300 |
| Owensboro | $80K | $38.23/hr | 1,660 |
| Elizabethtown | $79K | $38.05/hr | 860 |
| Paducah | $77K | $37.21/hr | 1,630 |
| Bowling Green | $77K | $36.84/hr | 1,640 |
Registered Nurses salary range in Kentucky
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in Kentucky?▼
The median registered nurses salary in Kentucky is $79,910 per year ($38.42/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $63,180 to $104,430.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in Kentucky?▼
Registered Nurses positions in Kentucky typically require Bachelor's degree. Kentucky may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Kentucky licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a registered nurses afford to live in Kentucky?▼
At the median salary of $79,910, a registered nurses in Kentucky would take home approximately $5,117/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in Kentucky?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in Kentucky are Lexington-Fayette ($82,780), Louisville/Jefferson County ($81,200), Owensboro ($79,510). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Kentucky have state income tax for registered nurses?▼
Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $79,910 salary, this means roughly $3,196/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.