Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Kentucky (2026)
Kentucky · 17.0% below national average · Very High Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville | $35,055 | -16.0% | Very High |
| Lexington | $35,055 | -16.0% | Very High |
Kentucky is home to a moderate job market for Substance Abuse Counselors. The state's key industries — Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $41,732 per year, Kentucky's Substance Abuse Counselor 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 $28,064–$35,474, while experienced Substance Abuse Counselors can command $52,147–$58,202.
Looking ahead, the Substance Abuse Counselor profession in Kentucky is projected to grow at 5.8% 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 Substance Abuse Counselor salary in Kentucky?The average Substance Abuse Counselor salary in Kentucky is $41,732 per year in 2026, which is 17.0% below the national average of $50,280.
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What city in Kentucky pays Substance Abuse Counselors the most?Major metro areas typically pay Substance Abuse Counselors 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 Substance Abuse Counselors?Kentucky has a moderate job market with major industries in Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture. Opportunities exist in for Substance Abuse Counselor employment.
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How does Kentucky Substance Abuse Counselor salary compare to the US average?At $41,732/year, Kentucky Substance Abuse Counselor salaries are 17.0% lower than the national average of $50,280/year.