Kentucky Minimum Wage (2026)
Built & reviewed by Nandu Kannan · Overtime rules cited to primary statutes
Kentucky's minimum wage is $7.25 an hour in 2026. Kentucky matches the federal minimum at $7.25.
Kentucky minimum wage vs. the federal minimum
The federal minimum wage is $7.25 an hour. Kentucky's effective minimum is $7.25 , so most workers here are covered by the federal floor.
Minimum-wage pay & overtime
At $7.25 an hour, overtime (1.5×) is $10.88 per hour. 1.5× after 40 hours/week, plus 1.5× on the 7th consecutive day worked in a week. Run your own numbers with the Kentucky overtime calculator or convert it to a yearly figure with the salary to hourly calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage in Kentucky in 2026?
The minimum wage in Kentucky is $7.25 per hour as of 2026. Kentucky matches the federal minimum at $7.25.
How much is Kentucky's minimum wage per year?
At $7.25 an hour, full-time (40 hours a week, 52 weeks) is about $15,080 a year before taxes, or $290 a week.
Is Kentucky's minimum wage higher than the federal minimum?
No. Kentucky effectively follows the federal minimum of $7.25. Kentucky matches the federal minimum at $7.25.
What is overtime pay on Kentucky's minimum wage?
Overtime is 1.5× your regular rate, so a minimum-wage worker at $7.25 earns $10.88 per overtime hour. 1.5× after 40 hours/week, plus 1.5× on the 7th consecutive day worked in a week.
Rate as of January 2026, from the U.S. Department of Labor. Cities and counties may set higher local minimums, and rates change — confirm with your state labor office. General information, not legal or payroll advice.
Related
What's a minimum-wage paycheck after taxes in Kentucky?
Minimum wage by state · Kentucky overtime · Overtime by state · Salary to Hourly