10 Fastest Growing Jobs In Kentucky

10 Fastest Growing Jobs In Kentucky (2026 Update)

Kentucky has long been a state of transformation. As we advance into 2026, we continue to witness growth across various sectors, including finance, industry, technology, and the workforce.

Many professions that thrived decades ago are now obsolete, while future roles remain unpredictable. However, we can identify which jobs are poised for growth in the near term based on current trends and data.

After analyzing the latest labor market statistics, we present the fastest growing jobs in Kentucky for 2026.

Here are the top 10 fastest growing jobs in Kentucky, with a comprehensive list of the top 100 provided below:

It’s intriguing to note that roles such as home health aides and physical therapist assistants are now among the most sought-after positions. This reflects significant progress in key sectors, and it suggests that job security may be attainable for those pursuing these careers.

Before diving deeper into the specifics of these jobs, let’s explore the methodology behind this list.

How We Determined the Fastest Growing Jobs in Kentucky

Every few years, the state’s Department of Labor collaborates with the Bureau of Labor Statistics to forecast job growth by occupation. The most recent projections were released in 2024, with data extending to 2034.

To create a comprehensive database, we gathered this data from all states individually. We identified occupations in Kentucky projected to have at least 1,000 workers by 2034, ensuring the relevance of our findings. This analysis covered 329 occupations statewide.

Subsequently, we ranked these occupations according to their projected growth rates, resulting in the identification of home health aides as the fastest growing job in Kentucky.

Why the Fastest Growing Jobs in Kentucky Matter

Understanding job trends is not just fascinating; it serves as a valuable indicator of Kentucky’s economic trajectory. Identifying which careers are likely to be more secure and readily available in the future can guide job seekers in making informed decisions. If you are aiming for longevity in your career, consider exploring this list.

From home health aides to physical therapist assistants, these positions are expected to remain in demand for the foreseeable future.

Detailed List Of The Fastest Growing Jobs In Kentucky

Rank	Job Title	Growth %	Average Wage	Jobs in 2024
1	Home Health Aide	159.5%	$25,710	6,620
2	Physical Therapist Assistant	152.2%	$54,060	2,450
3	Operations Analyst	149.4%	$73,290	2,390
4	Physical Therapy Aide	149.2%	$24,410	1,000
5	Physical Therapist	147.2%	$83,270	4,150
6	Certified Nursing Assistant	146.1%	$25,160	37,180
7	Occupational Therapist	145.7%	$80,110	2,710
8	Tour Guide	144.4%	$23,740	3,120
9	Diagnostic Medical Sonographer	143.5%	$62,740	1,320
10	Nurse Practitioner	143.3%	$94,790	3,510

For more insights on the Kentucky job market, explore the following:

Never miss an opportunity that’s right for you.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.

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