countyscore
56.1
County Score
Water Quality 86Safety 73Weather & Climate 63.3

County Report Card

About Ballard County, Kentucky

Strong National Standing

Ballard County holds a 56.1 composite score, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This indicates a level of livability that exceeds many of its peers across the country.

Close to Kentucky Midpoint

At 56.1, the county sits just below the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It remains a competitive option in the western part of the state.

Clean Water and Secure Living

The county earns an impressive 86.0 for Water quality and a strong 73.0 for Safety. These foundational strengths provide a reliable environment for local families.

Education and Health Focus

School and Health scores, at 41.5 and 43.0 respectively, show areas where the county could enhance public services. These figures highlight a need for continued investment in community well-being.

Reliable Rural Living

Ballard County suits those who prioritize safety and clean infrastructure in a rural setting. It offers a stable, low-stress lifestyle for long-term residents.

Score breakdown

Tax52.9Cost56.5Safety73Health43Schools41.5Income53.2Risk60.4Water86Weather63.3
🏛52.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠56.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼53.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡73
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤43
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡60.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

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Carlisle County
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62.2
Mississippi County
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Deep Dives

Ballard County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Ballard County

via TaxByCounty

Ballard taxes above national norm

Ballard County's 0.803% effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.85%, placing it squarely in the upper tier of American counties for property tax burden. The median annual tax of $1,067 remains well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting lower home values despite higher rates.

Above Kentucky state average

At 0.803%, Ballard County's effective rate surpasses Kentucky's state average of 0.719%, ranking it among the state's higher-tax counties. Homeowners pay a median of $1,067 compared to the state median of $1,093, remaining close to the statewide benchmark.

Steepest rate in far-western region

Ballard County's 0.803% rate edges out most western Kentucky neighbors, though it trails Anderson County's 0.796%—making it effectively tied for the region's highest burden. Residents in nearby Graves and Hickman counties face similar pressures.

What $132,900 home costs annually

A median Ballard County home valued at $132,900 generates approximately $1,067 in annual property taxes. With mortgage and insurance included, effective annual tax costs reach about $1,243.

Reassessment can ease burden

Ballard County's above-average tax rates make assessment accuracy especially important for homeowners. Requesting a professional reappraisal or filing a timely appeal can reduce tax bills by several hundred dollars.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ballard County

via CostByCounty

Ballard balances income and rent well

Ballard County's median household income of $64,740 sits notably below the national average of $74,755, yet its 15.3% rent-to-income ratio demonstrates solid affordability. Residents here manage housing costs efficiently despite earning less than their national counterparts.

Right at Kentucky's affordability line

Ballard's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio matches Allen County and beats the state average of 17.0%, placing it squarely in Kentucky's more affordable tier. The median rent of $826 slightly exceeds the state average of $771, offset by moderate incomes.

Mid-range rents, below-average homes

Ballard's $826 rent falls between Anderson County's higher-end market ($870) and Adair's modest rents ($775), while homeownership at $784 monthly stays competitive. The median home value of $132,900 positions Ballard as an affordable entry point to ownership in the region.

Ballard's housing splits evenly

Renters spend $826 monthly while homeowners pay $784, with both clusters consuming roughly 15% of the $64,740 median income. This equilibrium gives Ballard households flexibility for savings and other necessities.

Ballard suits pragmatic relocators

If you're moving for work with a moderate income, Ballard's balanced rent and ownership costs make it a smart choice without stretching your budget. Compare it to neighboring Allen and Bath counties to find your ideal rent-to-income fit.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ballard County

via IncomeByCounty

Ballard County Income: 13% Below National

Ballard County's median household income of $64,740 falls about $10,000 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it firmly in the middle-income range nationally. The county's earnings reflect typical conditions for Western Kentucky agricultural and small-manufacturing communities.

Above Kentucky's State Average

Ballard County's $64,740 median household income exceeds Kentucky's state average of $55,909 by roughly $8,800, ranking the county in the upper half statewide. Per capita income of $34,469 also tops the state average of $29,616 by 16%.

Strong Performer Among Western Kentucky Peers

Ballard County's income surpasses Adair ($50,316), Bath ($54,128), and Barren ($49,171) while trailing Anderson County ($71,747) and Boone County ($94,752). The county's performance reflects a relatively stable economic base in Western Kentucky's agricultural region.

Housing Affordability Is Solid

At 15.3% rent-to-income ratio, Ballard County residents maintain excellent housing affordability, well below the 30% threshold. A median home value of $132,900 is highly accessible for households earning the county median, freeing resources for savings and investments.

Build Wealth Through Disciplined Saving

Ballard residents with median household income can comfortably set aside 12–18% for savings and investments after housing and living expenses. Work with a financial advisor to establish homeownership goals, retirement accounts, and education savings while leveraging affordable housing market.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ballard County

via CrimeByCounty

Ballard County Maintains Secure Environment

With a safety score of 99.0, Ballard County is significantly safer than the national average. Its total crime rate of 645.8 per 100,000 residents is less than a third of the U.S. rate of 2,385.5.

Solid Rankings Within Kentucky

Ballard County outperforms the Kentucky average safety score of 98.8 with its own score of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 645.8 also remains lower than the statewide average of 786.2.

Understanding Local Crime Reporting

Data for Ballard County comes from a single reporting agency, which warrants careful interpretation. Despite this, the reported crime rate of 645.8 suggests a safer environment than many surrounding areas.

Property Offenses vs Violent Incidents

Property crime occurs at a rate of 568.3 per 100,000 residents. Violent crime sits at 77.5, which is very close to the Kentucky state average of 78.1.

Safety Precautions for Rural Homes

Because property crime is the most common incident type, securing entry points is essential. Residents should ensure that outbuildings and equipment are locked and well-monitored.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ballard County

via HealthByCounty

Ballard trails the national average

Ballard County residents live to 72.9 years, roughly 5.3 years less than the U.S. average of 78.2 years. About 23.1% report poor or fair health, above the national average of 21%.

Close to Kentucky's state average

Ballard's 72.9-year life expectancy sits just above Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years, placing it in the middle of the state's health distribution. The 23.1% poor/fair health rate is above the state norm.

Provider data gaps limit clarity

Primary care provider data for Ballard is not currently available, but mental health providers are scarce at just 26 per 100,000—well below peers like Adair (275). This suggests residents may face barriers accessing both primary and behavioral healthcare.

Moderate uninsured rate persists

About 6.5% of Ballard residents lack health insurance, slightly below Kentucky's 7.0% average. Limited provider information makes it difficult to assess whether insurance coverage translates to adequate local healthcare access.

Cover the uninsured in Ballard

The 6.5% of uninsured Ballard residents should explore coverage options at kynect.ky.gov today—subsidies and Medicaid can eliminate cost barriers. When you have insurance and a regular care provider, health outcomes improve measurably.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ballard County

via SchoolsByCounty

Personalized Education in Ballard County

Ballard County serves a total of 1,052 students within a compact system of five public schools. The infrastructure includes one elementary, one middle, and two high schools, managed by a single local district. This smaller scale allows for a highly personalized approach to public education in Western Kentucky.

Achieving Results on a Budget

Despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,075, Ballard County maintains a 92.0% graduation rate, which is five points higher than the national average. The county’s school score of 52.6 reflects a solid performance relative to its funding levels. While spending is below the state average, student outcomes remain competitive on the national stage.

The Unified Ballard County District

All 1,052 public school students in the county are enrolled in the Ballard County district. There are no charter schools present, meaning the district is the primary architect of the local academic experience. This creates a cohesive community where every student follows a similar educational trajectory.

A Small-Scale Rural School Setting

The entire school system is rural, with an average school size of just 263 students. Ballard County Elementary is the largest campus with 467 students, while Ballard Memorial High School provides a small-school atmosphere for its 260 students. This environment fosters close relationships between staff and families.

Discover Rural Living and Dedicated Schools

Ballard County is ideal for families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with schools that focus on individual student success. The small school sizes ensure that children are known by name, not just by their test scores. Look for homes in the area to join this supportive and high-graduating educational community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ballard County

via RiskByCounty

Ballard's earthquake risk stands out nationally

Ballard County scores 39.63 overall—below the national average—but its earthquake risk of 88.93 is exceptionally high compared to most U.S. counties. This geologic vulnerability shapes the county's risk profile despite low flood and wildfire exposure.

Mid-range Kentucky county with unique earthquake threat

Ballard's composite score of 39.63 sits below Kentucky's 44.21 average, but its 88.93 earthquake risk ranks among the state's highest. The county represents an unusual risk concentration in a single hazard type.

Earthquake risk distinguishes Ballard from peers

While Ballard's overall 39.63 score is competitive with neighbors, its 88.93 earthquake rating dramatically exceeds Allen County (75.03) and most regional peers. This geological vulnerability is Ballard's defining risk characteristic.

Earthquake risk dominates; tornado risk moderate

Earthquake hazard at 88.93 is Ballard's overwhelming concern, ranking among Kentucky's highest exposure. Tornado risk at 31.71 remains moderate, while flood (12.25) and wildfire (6.01) risks are minimal.

Earthquake insurance is essential for Ballard

Ballard County residents face exceptional earthquake risk and should strongly prioritize earthquake insurance to protect their most valuable asset. Supplement coverage by securing heavy furniture and securing water heaters to wall studs.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Ballard County

via SoilByCounty

River-Influenced Soil Roots

Detailed pH and taxonomic data are missing for Ballard County in the current records. This western Kentucky region is heavily influenced by the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, historically producing diverse silt-rich soils.

Navigating Western Silt

The specific percentages of sand, silt, and clay are not currently available for this area. Local soils in this river valley often transition between sandy deposits and heavy silt, providing various agricultural opportunities.

Rich River Potential

Measurement data for organic matter and water capacity is not recorded at this time. Despite the missing numbers, the region is famous for high agricultural productivity supported by centuries of river-borne nutrients.

Understanding Local Drainage

Formal drainage classifications are currently unavailable for this county. Site-specific testing is recommended for any major planting or construction projects near the river's influence.

Long Seasons in Zone 7a

Located in hardiness zone 7a, the county enjoys a mild climate and a generous growing window. Try planting summer favorites like watermelons or sweet corn to celebrate the local climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ballard County

via LawnByCounty

Lawn Care in Ballard County

While Ballard County lacks a specific difficulty score, its location in Hardiness Zone 7a defines its growing potential. Residents here face different challenges than the state average of 66.3, particularly regarding water management and heat resilience.

Adapting to Local Climate Trends

Local climate data is currently limited for this county, but nearby regions typically experience the humid, transition-zone weather common to Western Kentucky. Homeowners should monitor local weather stations to adjust their mowing and watering schedules accordingly.

Testing Soil for Better Results

Specific soil metrics are not available for this area, but transition-zone lawns generally benefit from a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A professional soil test is the best first step to determine what nutrients your specific yard may be missing.

Urgent Water Management Needed

Ballard County has faced significant dryness, with 13 weeks in drought over the last year and 100% of the county currently classified as abnormally dry. Watering early in the morning is essential to prevent evaporation and keep grass alive during this dry spell.

Resilient Grass Varieties

Given the current dry conditions in Zone 7a, heat-tolerant grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia are smart choices. These varieties can go dormant during extreme dry spells and recover once the rainfall returns to normal levels.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ballard County's county score?
Ballard County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 56.1 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Ballard County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Ballard County ranks #85 among all counties in Kentucky on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Ballard County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Ballard County is $1,067, with an effective tax rate of 0.80%. This earns Ballard County a tax score of 52.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ballard County?
The median household income in Ballard County, Kentucky is $64,740 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ballard County earns an income score of 53.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ballard County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Ballard County scores 56.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #85 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Ballard County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Ballard County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.