Kentucky: education overview
Average teacher salary $60,594 (2024-25), #42 of 51. Source
Public vs private schools
| Public | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Schools | 1,542 | 480 |
| Students | 657,263 | 76,110 |
| Share of students | 90% | 10% |
Latest federal counts; public and private figures come from different school years, so the share is approximate.
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
Students, teachers, districts
- Public school districts
- 171
- Public school teachers (full-time equivalent)
- 43,023
- Public school students
- 657,263
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
How teacher pay is structured
Regular districts generally serve K–12, so elementary and high school teachers normally use the same district teacher pay framework rather than separate grade-level district schedules. Kentucky sets a statewide minimum salary schedule by experience and rank, with local schedules above it; collective bargaining is voluntary and occurs in some districts rather than being required statewide.
Separate high school districts: noStatewide salary schedule: yesSource
For prospective educators
You'd be a good fit if you want county-based K–12 districts, a state minimum salary schedule that districts build on, and a lower cost of living.
A general summary, not advice. Pay and conditions vary by district.