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As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Direct Support Professional in Kentucky is $33,327 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.
However, a Direct Support Professional's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Direct Support Professional Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $35,685 | $2,974 | $686 | $17 |
| Average | $33,327 | $2,777 | $641 | $16 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,030 | $2,586 | $597 | $15 |
The Methodist Home of Kentucky, Inc. - Owensboro, KY
Delion Care Services - Richmond, KY
The Methodist Home of Kentucky, Inc. - Nicholasville, KY
Alhassan Services and Homes - Pleasure Ridge Park, KY
A Direct Support Professional's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Direct Support Professional's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Direct Su... Level Direct Support Professional | $33,154 |
| Home Care... Level Direct Support Professional | $29,916 |
| Home Care... Level Direct Support Professional | $35,966 |
| Home Care... Level Direct Support Professional | $40,142 |
| Home Care... Level Direct Support Professional | $40,193 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Direct Support Professionals. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
For Direct Support Professional roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, Healthcare, offers compensation 20% above the average. Conversely, Direct Support Professional positions in Edu., Gov't. & Nonprofit typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Direct Support Professional as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | $39,992 | $19.0 | 20% |
Understanding how a Direct Support Professional's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $35,685 | $2,974 | $686 | $17 |
| Average | $33,327 | $2,777 | $641 | $16 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,030 | $2,586 | $597 | $15 |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Direct Support Professional job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
Employment Solutions Inc
Lexington, KY
Employment Solutions Inc | Lexington, KY
Job Description. Job Description. Direct Support Provider (Day Training Facility). About the Role. Are you passionate about bringing joy, independence, and... more
4 Days Ago
Evergreen Life Services
Madisonville, KY
Evergreen Life Services | Madisonville, KY
Job Description. Job Description. Benefits. 401(k). Flexible schedule. Opportunity for advancement. Training & development. Tuition assistance. Wellness re... more
4 Days Ago
Evergreen Life Services
Bowling Green, KY
Evergreen Life Services | Bowling Green, KY
Job Description. Job Description. Evergreen Life Services is an equal opportunity employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race... more
4 Days Ago
The New Cool
Louisville, KY
The New Cool | Louisville, KY
Job Description. Job Description. Has direct contact with intellectually and behavioral disabled individuals apart of SCL and MPW waiver. Provide oversight... more
4 Days Ago
Attend Home Care
Louisville, KY
Attend Home Care | Louisville, KY
Job Description. Job Description. Direct Support Professional (DSP). Care. Impact. Grow With Us. Join Attend Home Care, a fast-growing home care company wh... more
5 Days Ago
Marpe Contractors
Florence, KY
Marpe Contractors | Florence, KY
Job Description. Job Description. Description. OVERVIEW. Community Living Supports (CLS) shall be provided to facilitate independence and promote integrati... more
5 Days Ago
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