Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Salary in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky · 17.0% below national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville | $43,491 | -16.0% | Medium |
| Lexington | $43,491 | -16.0% | Medium |
Kentucky is home to a moderate job market for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss. The state's key industries — Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $51,775 per year, Kentucky's Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers 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 $34,750–$43,342, while experienced Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss can command $62,675–$69,518.
Looking ahead, the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers profession in Kentucky is projected to grow at 4.0% 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 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in Kentucky?The average Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary in Kentucky is $51,775 per year in 2026, which is 17.0% below the national average of $62,380.
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What city in Kentucky pays Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss the most?Major metro areas typically pay Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss 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 Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workerss?Kentucky has a moderate job market with major industries in Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture. Opportunities exist in for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers employment.
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How does Kentucky Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salary compare to the US average?At $51,775/year, Kentucky Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers salaries are 17.0% lower than the national average of $62,380/year.