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Kentucky
Current State Minimum Wage
Kentucky follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25/hr. The state does not have its own minimum wage law that exceeds the federal rate.
Tipped Workers & Tip Credit
Tipped employees in Kentucky receive a base cash wage of $2.13/hr. Employers take a tip credit of $5.12/hr, and tips must bring the total to at least $7.25/hr.
Exemptions & Special Worker Rates
Tipped employees receive $2.13/hr; employers with fewer than 8 employees may be exempt. Always check the official Kentucky labor department website for the most current exemption details.
Official State Source
For the most current minimum wage information, visit the official Kentucky labor department page at https://labor.ky.gov/standards/Pages/Minimum-Wage.aspx.
Related guides
More from Tennessee · Minimum Wage
- Tennessee → Pennsylvania
- Tennessee → Rhode Island
- Tennessee → South Carolina
- Tennessee → South Dakota
- Tennessee → Texas
Moving to Kentucky from elsewhere · Minimum Wage
State minimum wage rates change frequently — always verify on the official state labor department site before relying on these figures. Rates reflect 2025–2026 where available. This map shows only the statewide minimum; many cities (Seattle, Denver, NYC, etc.) require higher local rates. Federal minimum wage is $7.25/hr.