what is minimum wage in kentucky

The minimum wage in Kentucky as of 2025 is $7.25 per hour, which matches the federal minimum wage rate. This rate has not changed since 2009 and applies statewide. For tipped employees, the base cash wage is $2.13 per hour, but their total hourly earnings including tips must amount to at least $7.25. There have been proposals to increase Kentucky's minimum wage incrementally to $15 per hour, but no changes have been implemented yet. Additionally, some local governments in Kentucky may have their own higher minimum wage laws.