Detective and Criminal Investigator Salary in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky · 17.0% below national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville | $62,246 | -16.0% | Medium |
| Lexington | $62,246 | -16.0% | Medium |
Kentucky is home to a moderate job market for Detective and Criminal Investigators. The state's key industries — Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $74,102 per year, Kentucky's Detective and Criminal Investigator salaries are 17.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Kentucky (index: 0.83) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Kentucky can expect to earn $47,044–$61,652, while experienced Detective and Criminal Investigators can command $94,520–$107,117.
Looking ahead, the Detective and Criminal Investigator profession in Kentucky is projected to grow at 2.5% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Manufacturing continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Detective and Criminal Investigator salary in Kentucky?The average Detective and Criminal Investigator salary in Kentucky is $74,102 per year in 2026, which is 17.0% below the national average of $89,280.
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What city in Kentucky pays Detective and Criminal Investigators the most?Major metro areas typically pay Detective and Criminal Investigators the highest wages in Kentucky due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is Kentucky a good state for Detective and Criminal Investigators?Kentucky has a moderate job market with major industries in Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture. Opportunities exist in for Detective and Criminal Investigator employment.
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How does Kentucky Detective and Criminal Investigator salary compare to the US average?At $74,102/year, Kentucky Detective and Criminal Investigator salaries are 17.0% lower than the national average of $89,280/year.