Kentucky Per Diem Rates (FY2026)
Kentucky has 4 GSA non-standard per diem areas for FY2026. Everywhere else uses the standard $178/day rate ($110 lodging + $68 M&IE). The most expensive is Louisville — up to $164/night lodging in September plus $80/day M&IE.
| Area | M&IE / day | Lodging / night | Peak month |
|---|---|---|---|
| BooneBoone | $68 | $116 | flat |
| KentonKenton | $86 | $163 | flat |
| LexingtonFayette | $80 | $118 | flat |
| LouisvilleJefferson | $80 | $120–$164 | Sep |
| All other Kentucky locationsstandard rate | $68 | $110 | flat |
Estimated trip cost
A 4-night business trip to Louisville — Kentucky's most expensive per diem area — in September totals $1,016: $656 lodging (4 nights) + $360 M&IE (5 days, first & last day at 75%). Louisville month-by-month rates →
Book within the Kentucky lodging cap
Otto finds hotels at or under the GSA lodging cap for your Kentucky destination — $110/night at the standard rate, higher in the 4 listed areas — and books them for you.
Kentucky per diem FAQ
- What is the per diem rate in Kentucky?
- Kentucky has 4 GSA non-standard per diem areas with their own rates for FY2026. Everywhere else in Kentucky uses the standard CONUS rate of $178 per day: $110 for lodging plus $68 for meals & incidental expenses (M&IE).
- What is the meal reimbursement (M&IE) rate in Kentucky?
- Meal reimbursement in Kentucky ranges from $68 to $86 per day for FY2026, depending on the area. The first and last day of travel reimburse at 75% of the daily M&IE rate.