Kentucky Minimum Wage 2026: $7.25/hr
Last updated: 2026-06-02 — Source: Kentucky Department of Labor
In Kentucky, the minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, effective 2009-07-24. Kentucky sets its own minimum wage, and a tip credit is allowed: the tipped cash wage is $2.13 per hour, with tips expected to bring total pay to at least the full minimum wage. Overtime is paid at 1.5× the regular rate after 40 hours in a workweek. This reflects a state overtime law.
Quick answer
Kentucky's minimum wage is $7.25/hr in 2026 — the same as the federal $7.25 minimum , ranked #38 of 51 US jurisdictions. The tipped cash wage is $2.13/hr.
Minimum Wage
$7.25
per hour
Tipped Wage
$2.13
per hour (cash wage)
Effective Date
2009-07-24
How Kentucky compares
State vs Federal
$0.00
Same as the federal $7.25 minimum
State Rate
$7.25
per hour
National Rank
#38
of 51 jurisdictions
Ranked by 2026 effective minimum wage across all 51 U.S. states and jurisdictions. Federal comparison source: U.S. Department of Labor.
Kentucky Overtime Rules
Kentucky requires overtime at 1.5x for hours over 40 per week. Also requires OT if employee works 7 consecutive days (7th day is overtime). Broader than FLSA.
Additional Information
Kentucky's minimum wage is $7.25, matching the federal rate. Tipped minimum cash wage is $2.13/hr.