Kentucky minimum wage is $7.25 per hour in 2026, equivalent to $15,080 per year for a full-time worker. Kentucky follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hr.
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Standard minimum wage | $7.25/hr |
| Annual salary (40hr week, 52 weeks) | $15,080/yr |
| Federal minimum wage | $7.25/hr |
| Above federal rate? | No — same as federal |
| State income tax | 4.0% |
Kentucky follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hr.
A full-time worker earning the Kentucky minimum wage of $7.25/hr working 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year earns $15,080 gross per year. After federal income tax, Social Security and Medicare deductions, take-home pay is typically $12,366–$13,270 per year depending on individual circumstances.
Kentucky has a state income tax rate of up to 4.0%, which reduces take-home pay for minimum wage workers.
What is the minimum wage in Kentucky?
The minimum wage in Kentucky is $7.25 per hour in 2026. Kentucky follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hr.
What is the annual salary at minimum wage in Kentucky?
Working 40 hours per week, a minimum wage worker in Kentucky earns $15,080 per year before tax.
Is Kentucky minimum wage above the federal rate?
Kentucky follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hr.
What are the salary options above minimum wage in Kentucky?
For higher earning opportunities in Kentucky, see our full Kentucky salary guide covering 50+ professions.
Compare Kentucky's minimum wage with nearby states:
If you're looking to earn more than the Kentucky minimum wage, explore our salary guides for in-demand professions in Kentucky: