Kentucky vs. national registered nurse wages
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median annual wage | $71,438 | $86,070 | -17% |
| Mean annual wage | $79,730 | $96,060 | -17% |
| Take-home (single filer) | $56,229 | — | after all 2026 taxes |
Kentucky median derived from BLS OEWS May 2024 national figure adjusted by state wage pattern.
Take-home breakdown for $71,438 in Kentucky
Annual deductions
- Federal income tax
- −$6,886
- Kentucky state income tax
- −$2,858
- FICA (SS + Medicare)
- −$5,465
- Total taxes
- −$15,209
Your paycheck
- Annual net
- $56,229
- Monthly net
- $4,686
- Bi-weekly net
- $2,163
- Hourly equivalent
- $27.03/hr
Assumes single filer, no pre-tax deductions, standard deduction, 2026 IRS brackets. Use the full calculator for filing-status adjustments, 401(k) contributions, and other pre-tax items.
About this occupation
Provides and coordinates patient care, educates patients and the public about health conditions, and provides emotional support to patients and families.
Outlook (2023-2033)
+6% (2023-2033, faster than average)
Typical Education
Bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) and RN licensure
BLS SOC Code
29-1141
Frequently asked questions
How much do registered nurses make in in Kentucky in 2026?›
The national median annual wage for RNs was $86,070 in May 2024 (BLS OEWS). With 2026 tax rules, take-home pay on a $86,070 salary runs roughly $66,000-$72,000 depending on state — California and Hawaii are outliers on the high end ($130K+ median).
Which states pay registered nurses the most?›
California ($137K median), Hawaii ($128K), Oregon ($110K), Massachusetts ($105K), Washington ($100K), and New York ($100K) lead the country. High wages reflect strong union presence (CA) and high cost-of-living.
Do states without income tax pay nurses less?›
Texas, Florida, Washington, and Tennessee are no-state-income-tax states, but their RN wages ($75K-$80K median) are only slightly below national median. The lower tax burden partly offsets the lower gross pay — and cost-of-living in most of these states is also lower than CA/NY.
Is nursing a good career in 2026?›
Yes. BLS projects 6% employment growth through 2033 (faster than average), with persistent demand from an aging population. RN remains one of the most stable, recession-resistant healthcare careers.
What is the take-home pay on a $71,438 registered nurse salary in Kentucky?›
On a $71,438 registered nurse salary in Kentucky, take-home pay is approximately $56,229/year ($4,686/month, $2,163/bi-weekly). That accounts for $6,886 in federal income tax, 2,858 in Kentucky state income tax, and $5,465 in FICA. The effective tax rate is 21.3%.
Highest-paying states for Registered Nurses
Related occupations in Kentucky
Want to model your own salary?
Open the Registered Nurse + Kentucky combo in the full calculator. Pre-filled with $71,438. Adjust filing status, 401(k), and other deductions.