countyscore
53
County Score
Cost of Living 97.3Schools 77.1Weather & Climate 63.5

County Report Card

About Bell County, Kentucky

Above National Median Performance

Bell County holds a composite score of 53.0, exceeding the national median of 50.0. Despite local economic hurdles, it maintains a competitive overall quality of life.

Below the Kentucky Average

The county’s score of 53.0 is below the state average of 58.6. It faces tougher conditions than many other counties in the Commonwealth.

Incredible Affordability and Schools

Housing is exceptionally affordable, reflected in a Cost Score of 97.3 and median home values of $83,000. Surprisingly, the School Score is a very strong 77.1.

Economic and Safety Hurdles

The Income Score of 0.5 highlights a median household income of $32,403. Safety and health also pose challenges, with scores of 21.2 and 26.9 respectively.

Value for Young Families

Bell County is a unique choice for families who prioritize low-cost housing and strong school performance. It offers some of the most accessible homeownership in the state.

Score breakdown

Tax58.3Cost97.3Safety21.2Health26.9Schools77.1Income0.5Risk32Water59.3Weather63.5
🏛58.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠97.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼0.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡21.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤26.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓77.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡32
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧59.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.2
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

Knox County
Kentucky
56.5
Claiborne County
Tennessee
64.5
Whitley County
Kentucky
64.4
Lee County
Virginia
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Harlan County
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Hancock County
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Leslie County
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Clay County
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Deep Dives

Bell County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Bell County

via TaxByCounty

Bell County has lowest absolute taxes

Bell County's 0.743% effective tax rate falls just below the national median of 0.85%, placing it in the lower-middle range nationally. The median annual property tax of just $617—the lowest among our profiled counties—represents just 23% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting depressed regional home values.

Moderate rate, lowest tax bills

Bell County's 0.743% effective rate slightly exceeds Kentucky's state average of 0.719%, but the median property tax of $617 is 44% below the state median of $1,093. This reflects southeastern mountain home values that remain among Kentucky's lowest.

Affordable taxes in coal region

Bell County's 0.743% rate sits amid other eastern Kentucky mining-region counties facing similar economic realities and depressed property values. Harlan and Pike counties nearby experience comparable or even higher rates with similar low tax bills.

What $83,000 home costs annually

A median Bell County home valued at just $83,000 generates approximately $617 in annual property taxes—the lowest tax burden among our eight counties. Total annual housing costs including mortgage reach roughly $1,048.

Low values don't eliminate appeal options

Despite Bell County's depressed property values, homeowners should still verify assessment accuracy, as overvaluation compounds even on modest-priced homes. Appeals are particularly worthwhile if recent sales suggest lower market values.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Bell County

via CostByCounty

Bell County faces severe affordability crisis

Bell County's 22.9% rent-to-income ratio represents a housing crisis, nearly 50% above the national affordability threshold of 15-17%. With the lowest median household income among these counties at $32,403, Bell residents face the nation's most acute housing stress.

Kentucky's most burdened housing market

Bell's 22.9% rent-to-income ratio is the worst among all these Kentucky counties, exceeding even Barren County (19.1%) by a significant margin. The combination of minimal incomes and modest rents still overwhelms Bell households.

Lowest income, disproportionate burden

Bell's median income of $32,403 is less than two-thirds of nearby Adair County ($50,316) and less than one-third of prosperous Boone County ($94,752). While its $617 median rent ranks among the region's lowest, it consumes a devastating share of Bell's limited earnings.

Bell's housing burden is unsustainable

Renters allocate $617 monthly to rent—22.9% of the $32,403 median income—while homeowners pay $391, reflecting a distressed market with minimal property values ($83,000 median). Nearly one-quarter of Bell renter income evaporates into housing costs, leaving inadequate resources for food, utilities, and healthcare.

Bell requires exceptional circumstances

Only relocate to Bell County if your income substantially exceeds the county median or employment opportunities guarantee wages well above regional norms. This county demands careful financial planning to ensure housing doesn't crowd out other essential needs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Bell County

via IncomeByCounty

Bell County Faces Severe Income Challenges

Bell County's median household income of just $32,403 sits 57% below the U.S. median of $74,755, making it one of the nation's lowest-income counties. This stark gap reflects decades of economic decline following coal industry contraction in southeastern Kentucky.

Kentucky's Lowest-Income County

At $32,403, Bell County ranks far below Kentucky's state average of $55,909—a gap of over $23,500 that underscores severe regional economic distress. Per capita income of $20,463 trails the state average of $29,616 by 31%, indicating widespread poverty.

Dramatically Lower Than All Peer Counties

Bell County's income trails every other county in this comparison by substantial margins, with the nearest peer being Barren County at $49,171—a difference of $16,768. The county faces unique economic challenges rooted in coal industry collapse and limited job diversification.

Housing Affordability Crisis

Bell County residents spend 22.9% of income on rent—the highest ratio in this group and approaching the danger threshold—while median home values of $83,000 remain out of reach for many. The affordability crisis reflects both low incomes and limited access to credit or down payment assistance.

Seek Emergency and Community Support

Bell County residents should prioritize accessing government assistance programs, nonprofit credit counseling, and emergency aid before pursuing investments. Connect with local workforce development agencies about job training and education programs that can increase earning potential and long-term economic mobility.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Bell County

via CrimeByCounty

Bell County Crime vs National Norms

Bell County reports a total crime rate of 2,037.3 per 100,000 people, which remains below the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score is 96.8, indicating it is safer than 68% of U.S. counties.

Regional Challenges in Bell County

The crime rate of 2,037.3 is significantly higher than the Kentucky state average of 786.2. This results in a safety score of 96.8, which is lower than the statewide average of 98.8.

Active Law Enforcement Reporting

Six different agencies report data in Bell County, creating a very detailed picture of public safety. This level of reporting highlights more activity than is seen in several surrounding rural counties.

Breakdown of Property and Violence

Property crime is high at 1,851.7 incidents per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate of 185.6 is more than double the Kentucky state average of 78.1.

Prioritizing Home Security

Given the higher property crime rates, Bell County residents should invest in high-quality locks and security systems. External lighting and visible security cameras are proven ways to reduce local risk.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Bell County

via HealthByCounty

Bell faces a health emergency

Bell County residents live to just 67.3 years—the lowest in this comparison and 10.9 years below the U.S. average of 78.2 years. A striking 28.3% report poor or fair health—the highest rate among these eight counties.

Kentucky's critical health crisis

Bell's 67.3-year life expectancy falls 4.9 years below Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years, representing a major public health emergency. The 28.3% poor/fair health rate is far above the state norm, indicating severe chronic disease prevalence.

Moderate providers, severe outcomes

Bell has 50 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—competitive on paper—yet health outcomes remain the worst in this group. Mental health support is limited at just 60 providers per 100,000, suggesting coverage gaps despite primary care supply.

Uninsured rate near state average

About 7.0% of Bell residents lack health insurance, matching the state average, yet the county's health crisis persists despite comparable insurance rates to better-performing counties. This suggests deeper structural barriers to health beyond insurance access alone.

Coverage is just the start

Bell County residents: visit kynect.ky.gov to confirm you have insurance, then work with your provider on preventive screenings and chronic disease management. Community health initiatives and behavioral health support will be crucial to reversing Bell's health trajectory.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Bell County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Quality Infrastructure in Bell County

Bell County manages a broad network of 18 public schools, serving a total of 4,150 students. This extensive system includes seven elementary schools, five high schools, and five specialized centers, split across three active districts. It is one of the more diverse educational landscapes in the region, offering varied school types and sizes.

Top-Tier Scores and Graduation Success

Bell County shines with a school score of 58.8, well above the state average of 55.3. Its graduation rate of 97.0% is among the highest in the state and significantly beats the national average of 87.0%. These results are supported by a strong per-pupil investment of $7,726, which exceeds the Kentucky state average.

Three Districts Providing Choice and Excellence

The county is served by the Bell County district (2,453 students), Middlesboro Independent (1,120 students), and Pineville Independent (577 students). No charter schools operate in the area, but the three-district model provides significant local oversight. Each district maintains its own unique tradition and strong graduation performance.

A Mix of Town Hubs and Rural Schools

Education in Bell County is split between 10 rural schools and eight town-based campuses, with an average size of 319 students. Bell County High School is the largest with 695 students, while many other schools maintain intimate sizes under 500. This variety allows families to choose between centralized town schools or smaller rural centers.

Relocate to a High-Achieving Community

With a 97% graduation rate and scores that lead the state, Bell County is a premier destination for families focused on education. The presence of three distinct districts means you can find the perfect home near the school that best fits your child. Explore real estate in Bell County to secure a bright academic future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Bell County

via RiskByCounty

Bell County faces considerably above-average risk

Bell County scores 68.00 with a Relatively Low rating, exceeding the national average substantially. The county's wildfire risk of 73.25 and flood risk of 82.03 reflect genuine vulnerability to multiple major hazards.

Among Kentucky's highest-risk counties

Bell County ranks 68.00 against the state average of 44.21, placing it in the riskier tier of Kentucky counties. Only Boone County (74.46) and Barren County (67.91) rank meaningfully higher.

Bell's risk substantially exceeds nearby areas

Bell County (68.00) carries risk comparable to Barren County (67.91) but far exceeds the safety of adjacent counties like Anderson (26.34). The county sits in Kentucky's highest-risk region.

Flood and wildfire pose dual threats

Flood risk dominates at 82.03—among Kentucky's highest—while wildfire risk of 73.25 is exceptional for the state. Together these hazards far outweigh tornado (41.63) and other threats Bell residents face.

Flood and wildfire coverage is essential

Bell County homeowners must prioritize flood insurance (excluded from standard policies) and verify wildfire/brush fire coverage in their homeowners policy. Consider elevating critical infrastructure and clearing vegetation defensively around your home.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Bell County

via WeatherByCounty

High Rainfall in the Appalachians

Located in the mountain foothills, Bell County receives a generous 52.0 inches of annual precipitation. Its 10.1 inches of annual snowfall reflects a more mountainous climate than much of the U.S. interior.

A Wetter Corner of Kentucky

Bell County is wetter than the average Kentucky county, recording 52.0 inches of precipitation compared to the 50.6-inch state mean. Its 10.1 inches of snowfall is also a defining characteristic of this eastern region.

Mountain Snow vs. Interior Plains

Bell receives 10.1 inches of snow, which is significantly higher than the 5.7 inches seen in central Barren County. This reflects the cooling influence of higher elevations compared to the state's central plains.

Snowy Winters and Lush Summers

Winters are defined by 10.1 inches of snowfall and frequent mountain mists. While summer temperature data is unavailable, the 52.0 inches of total precipitation ensures a green landscape throughout the year.

Winter Tires and Waterproof Gear

Snow tires and salt are winter essentials given the 10.1-inch annual snowfall and rugged terrain. The high annual precipitation of 52.0 inches also makes durable waterproof footwear a must for outdoor enthusiasts.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Bell County

via SoilByCounty

Mountainous Soil Character

Detailed taxonomic and pH data for Bell County are not currently available. The rugged Appalachian terrain creates a unique soil identity shaped more by elevation and forest cover than typical farmland.

Sloped and Shifting Textures

Specific sand, silt, and clay percentages are not recorded in the latest survey for this area. Mountain soils in this region often include more rocky material and well-draining textures on the hillsides.

Appalachian Fertility Potential

Measurements for organic matter and water capacity are currently unlisted. While the data is limited, the thick forest floors in this region suggest a high potential for natural organic matter development.

Topography and Drainage

Official drainage class and hydrologic group data are unavailable for this county. Gardeners must pay close attention to the steep local topography to manage runoff and prevent soil erosion.

Mountain Gardening in 7a

Bell County is situated in hardiness zone 7a, perfect for mountain-hardy fruit trees and summer vegetables. Start a garden today and discover the unique rewards of growing in the Kentucky hills.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Bell County

via LawnByCounty

Lawn Care in Bell County

Bell County has a lawn difficulty score of 62.2, which is slightly below the Kentucky average of 66.3 but remains easier than the national median of 50.0. Local growers in Zone 7a must balance consistent rain with occasional dry spells.

Abundant Annual Rainfall

With 52.0 inches of annual precipitation, Bell County receives slightly more rain than the state average and the ideal range for lawns. This abundance supports thick growth but can lead to drainage issues in low-lying areas during the spring.

Foundational Soil Management

Specific soil data for Bell County is currently unavailable, but most Kentucky lawns thrive when the pH is adjusted to between 6.0 and 7.0. Testing your soil is the best way to determine if you need to add sulfur or lime to reach those ideal levels.

Monitoring Dry Conditions

Bell County experienced 8 weeks of drought over the past year, and 14.4% of the county is currently abnormally dry. Maintaining a slightly longer grass height during these periods can help protect the soil from drying out too quickly.

Zone 7a Grass Recommendations

Tall fescue is highly recommended for this region due to its deep root system and ability to handle the 52.0 inches of annual rain. Seeding in the early autumn ensures your lawn can establish itself before the winter months begin.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bell County's county score?
Bell County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 53 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 Bell County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Bell County ranks #92 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 Bell County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Bell County is $617, with an effective tax rate of 0.74%. This earns Bell County a tax score of 58.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Bell County?
The median household income in Bell County, Kentucky is $32,403 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Bell County earns an income score of 0.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Bell County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Bell County scores 53/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #92 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Bell 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 Bell 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.