How to Become a Respiratory Therapists in Kentucky
Respiratory Therapists in Kentucky earn a median salary of $65,670/year, which is 18% below the national average. Kentucky has a state income tax of ~4.0%. After taxes and rent, a respiratory therapists takes home approximately $2,918/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a respiratory therapists can afford in Kentucky
Becoming a respiratory therapists in Kentucky
Meet education requirements
Respiratory Therapists positions in Kentucky typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Kentucky. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many respiratory therapists 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.
Obtain Kentucky licensure or certification
Kentucky may require specific licensing or professional certification for respiratory therapistss. 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 2,860 respiratory therapists. The highest concentrations are in Louisville/Jefferson County and Lexington-Fayette.
Respiratory Therapists salary by metro area in Kentucky
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville/Jefferson County | $73K | $35.29/hr | 990 |
| Lexington-Fayette | $68K | $32.66/hr | 440 |
| Paducah | $65K | $31.23/hr | 110 |
| Owensboro | $64K | $30.83/hr | 50 |
| Bowling Green | $62K | $30/hr | 120 |
| Elizabethtown | $62K | $29.63/hr | 60 |
Respiratory Therapists salary range in Kentucky
Respiratory Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make in Kentucky?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in Kentucky is $65,670 per year ($31.57/hr). This is 18% below the national median of $80,450. Salaries range from $52,060 to $81,110.
What are the requirements to become a respiratory therapists in Kentucky?▼
Respiratory Therapists positions in Kentucky typically require Associate'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 respiratory therapists afford to live in Kentucky?▼
At the median salary of $65,670, a respiratory therapists in Kentucky would take home approximately $4,330/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for respiratory therapists in Kentucky?▼
The highest paying metro areas for respiratory therapists in Kentucky are Louisville/Jefferson County ($73,410), Lexington-Fayette ($67,930), Paducah ($64,950). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Kentucky have state income tax for respiratory therapists?▼
Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.0%. On a $65,670 salary, this means roughly $2,627/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.