Kentucky Firefighter Salary (2026) – Pay Scale, Overtime, Benefits & Verification Checklist
Kentucky firefighter compensation can look different across departments due to pay scale structure, scheduling, overtime rules, and benefit deductions. This guide helps you compare opportunities using information you can verify—not vague averages.
Compare all states (Hub)Salary Comparison Tool
Verification checklist: pay scale (rank/step) + schedule details + overtime policy + benefits/deductions. If you can’t verify those four, you can’t compare accurately.
Key Factors That Shape Pay in Kentucky
- Rank & step: step increases and promotions drive most pay growth.
- Schedule: how built-in overtime and holidays are handled matters.
- Overtime policy: assignment rules and callback minimums determine real earnings.
- Benefits & deductions: retirement and healthcare premiums impact net pay.
Overtime and Premium Pay: What to Confirm
- How overtime is assigned (rotation/seniority/assignment)
- Holdover/callback rules and minimum paid time
- Any caps or approval requirements
- Specialty incentives (certifications, apparatus operator, instructor, etc.)
Total Compensation (Not Just Base Pay)
Total compensation includes the benefit package and long-term retirement value. Ask for contribution rates and the benefit summary for your coverage type (single/family) to estimate realistic take-home pay.
How to Compare Two Kentucky Departments
- Match the same rank/step across departments.
- Confirm schedule and overtime calculation method.
- Estimate realistic overtime based on staffing policy.
- Subtract retirement and healthcare deductions.
- Compare purchasing power using housing + commute + recurring costs.
FAQ
Are statewide averages useful in Kentucky?
They can be a starting point, but the most reliable comparison is department-level: pay scale, overtime rules, and deductions.
What should I request from HR?
Request the current pay scale for the rank/step you expect, overtime policy summary, and benefits/deduction details.
