Average Dentist Salary in Kentucky
Dentists in Kentucky earn an average of $151,526 per year across 1 metro area. This is +11.3% lower than the national average.
Average Salary
$151,526
per year
Hourly Rate
$72.85
per hour
vs National
-11.3%
$170,910 national
Salary Range
$98,372
to $222,455
About Dentist Careers in Kentucky
Dentists diagnose and treat problems with patients' teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They also provide advice and instruction on taking care of teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health. As one of the highest-paid healthcare professions, dentists combine clinical expertise with entrepreneurial skills — most own or co-own their practices. The profession continues to evolve with advances in digital imaging, laser dentistry, and cosmetic procedures that command premium fees.
In Kentucky, dentists earn an average of $151,526 per year as of 2026, with salaries ranging from $98,372 for entry-level roles to $222,455 for the most experienced professionals — +11.3% below the national average. Pay is influenced most by specialty (oral surgeons and orthodontists earn significantly more than general dentists), practice ownership vs. associate or corporate dentistry, and the specific metro area within Kentucky.
Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
Nominal Salary
$151,526
Cost of Living Index
92
100 = national average
Adjusted Salary
$164,702
purchasing power equivalent
After adjusting for Kentucky's cost of living (below average), a Dentist's salary of $151,526 has the purchasing power of $164,702 in an average-cost area.
Dentist Salary by City in Kentucky
| City | Median Salary | Hourly Rate | Entry Level (P10) | Senior (P90) | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville, KY | $151,526 | $72.85/hr | $98,372 | $222,455 | 129 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).
Kentucky vs National Average
Dentist Salary Comparison
Employment in Kentucky
There are approximately 129 Dentists employed across 1 metro area in Kentucky.
Key Industries: Automotive Manufacturing, Healthcare, Logistics
State Income Tax: 4% flat rate
Dentist Salary Range in Kentucky
Entry Level (10th Percentile)
$98,372
Starting salary for new Dentists
Median (50th Percentile)
$151,526
Mid-career Dentist salary
Senior (90th Percentile)
$222,455
Top earners in the field
Related Occupations in Kentucky
Dentist Salary in Neighboring States
Compare Dentist salaries in Kentucky with nearby states to find the best opportunities.
More Kentucky Data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Dentist salary in Kentucky?
The average Dentist salary in Kentucky is $151,526 per year ($72.85/hour) based on 2026 data across 1 metro areas. This is 11.3% below the national average of $170,910.
What is the highest paying city for Dentists in Kentucky?
Louisville, KY is the highest paying city for Dentists in Kentucky, with a median salary of $151,526 per year.
What is the salary range for Dentists in Kentucky?
Dentist salaries in Kentucky range from $98,372 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $222,455 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $151,526 per year.
About This Data
Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. State-level averages are calculated from metro area data within Kentucky. Figures represent 2026 estimates and may not reflect all employers or self-employed workers. Cost of living adjustments use regional indices to provide purchasing power context.