45.1
County Score
Lawn Care 75.9Schools 68.9Weather & Climate 52

County Report Card

About Boyd County, Kentucky

Boyd County Trails the National Median

Boyd County earns a composite score of 45.1, placing it below the national median of 50.0. This indicates the county faces more livability challenges than the average American jurisdiction.

Well Below the Kentucky Average

The county's overall score of 45.1 is significantly lower than the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It ranks in the lower tier of the state's 120 counties for overall composite health.

Exceptional Schools and Affordable Living

Boyd County's standout feature is its School Score of 68.9, which ranks high for educational quality. Homeowners also benefit from a modest median home value of $126,300, leading to a Cost Score of 50.1.

Hazard Risk and Safety Are Concerns

A Risk Score of 25.1 highlights significant vulnerability to environmental hazards, while the Safety Score of 31.0 is lower than most state neighbors. Improving community security and disaster resilience remain key priorities.

A Choice for Families Prioritizing Education

This county is a strong fit for families who value quality public schools and affordable homeownership. However, residents must weigh these benefits against environmental risks and local safety metrics.

Score breakdown

Tax39.9Cost50.1Safety31Health43.2Schools68.9Income41.1Risk25.1Water47.8Weather52
🏛39.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠50.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼41.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡31
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
43.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓68.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
25.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧47.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤52
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱75.9
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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Deep Dives

Boyd County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Boyd County

via TaxByCounty

Boyd's rate ranks high, but homes cost less

Boyd County has the highest effective tax rate of the eight counties at 0.976%, nearly 36% above the national median, yet its median home value of $126,300 is far below the U.S. median of $281,900. This means Boyd residents pay $1,233 annually—less than half the national median tax despite their higher rate.

Boyd ranks among Kentucky's highest rates

At 0.976%, Boyd County's effective tax rate exceeds the state average of 0.719% by a substantial margin, placing it among the most tax-heavy counties in Kentucky. This elevated rate partly reflects the county's industrial and commercial tax base.

Boyd taxes steeper than most regional peers

Boyd's 0.976% rate is the highest in this eight-county group, outpacing Bracken County (0.939%) and Boyle County (0.853%). Despite lower home values, Boyd residents carry a heavier proportional tax burden than surrounding counties.

What a typical Boyd home costs to own

The median Boyd County home valued at $126,300 carries an annual property tax of $1,233. With mortgage deductions factored in, that tax bill rises to $1,384; without them, it drops to $935.

High rate makes assessments worth reviewing

Given Boyd's above-average tax rate, homeowners should carefully review their assessments to ensure properties aren't overvalued. An appeal could be especially rewarding in Boyd, where even modest assessment corrections yield meaningful annual savings.

Cost of Living in Boyd County

via CostByCounty

Boyd rents stay below national average

Boyd County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% falls below the national standard, meaning renters here shoulder less housing burden than the typical U.S. household. At $839 per month, the median rent remains notably lower than what renters pay in most American counties.

Slightly above state average affordability

Boyd County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% edges above Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it near the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. While not among the cheapest, Boyd offers reasonable rental costs relative to household incomes statewide.

Higher rent, lower home values

Boyd County's $839 monthly rent ranks highest among its regional peers—about $90 more than Bourbon and $94 more than Bracken. However, its median home value of $126,300 is significantly lower than most neighbors, making Boyd attractive for cost-conscious homebuyers.

Balance between rent and ownership

Boyd County's median household income of $60,659 supports both renters and homeowners reasonably well—rent consumes 16.6% of income while ownership costs claim 16.9%. This near-parity suggests renters and homeowners face comparable affordability pressures in Boyd.

Boyd works for budget-conscious buyers

If you're hunting for an affordable home purchase, Boyd County's median home value of $126,300 is among Kentucky's lowest. Renters should note that Boyd's rents run slightly higher than some peers, so compare carefully before relocating.

Income & Jobs in Boyd County

via IncomeByCounty

Boyd County trails national income levels

Boyd County's median household income of $60,659 falls 19% short of the national median of $74,755. This gap underscores economic pressures facing eastern Kentucky communities.

Strong performer among Kentucky counties

Boyd County's $60,659 median household income ranks above Kentucky's state average of $55,909, placing it in the upper tier statewide. Per capita income of $31,192 also exceeds the state benchmark of $29,616.

Outearning nearby Appalachian peers

Boyd County residents earn significantly more than Breathitt County ($41,101) and Breckinridge County ($53,673), though less than Boyle County ($61,635). This county punches above its weight regionally.

Rental costs slightly stretch incomes

At 16.6%, Boyd County's rent-to-income ratio approaches the upper edge of affordability guidelines, though it remains acceptable. The median home value of $126,300 is notably lower than state peers, improving overall housing accessibility.

Invest beyond the paycheck

Boyd County's above-average state income provides a foundation for wealth-building strategies. Explore employer 401(k) matches, health savings accounts, and low-cost index funds to stretch your earnings into long-term security.

Safety in Boyd County

via CrimeByCounty

Boyd County remains safer than national average

Boyd County features a safety score of 97.4, indicating a secure environment despite higher local activity. Its total crime rate of 1,631.3 per 100,000 residents sits comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5.

Trailing the state's safety average

With a safety score of 97.4, Boyd County ranks below the Kentucky state average of 98.8. Its total crime rate of 1,631.3 is more than double the state average of 786.2 per 100,000 people.

Higher crime rates than regional peers

Boyd County sees more crime than many of its Kentucky counterparts, including Bullitt County which reports 1,007.5 incidents per 100,000. It faces roughly five times the crime volume of ultra-quiet Bracken County.

Violent crime remains relatively low

Violent crime in Boyd County stands at 149.2 per 100,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime is the main driver of local statistics, totaling 1,482.1 incidents per 100,000.

Proactive security helps reduce property theft

Since property offenses represent the bulk of local crime, residents should prioritize securing entry points and using smart surveillance. These steps are effective at deterring the opportunistic crimes that impact Boyd County's overall safety rank.

Health in Boyd County

via HealthByCounty

Health outcomes below national average

Boyd County residents live an average of 71.6 years, trailing the U.S. average of 76.4 years by nearly 5 years. Just over 21.9% of adults report poor or fair health, slightly below the national rate of approximately 18%. The gap signals room for targeted health improvement efforts.

Struggling within Kentucky

At 71.6 years, Boyd County's life expectancy falls below Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years. The county ranks in the lower half of Kentucky's 120 counties for longevity, indicating persistent health challenges. Its 21.9% poor/fair health rate mirrors state-level struggles.

Outstanding mental health provider access

Boyd County has 780 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—an exceptional figure that far exceeds nearby counties and the state average. It provides 100 primary care providers per 100,000, outpacing Bourbon County (64) and most regional peers. This strong provider infrastructure is a significant asset for mental health support.

Low uninsured rate, strong access

Boyd County's uninsured rate of 6.0% is the lowest in this regional comparison and below Kentucky's 7.0% average, meaning strong health insurance coverage. The county's abundance of mental health providers (780 per 100,000) and solid primary care presence (100 per 100,000) ensure residents can access care when needed.

Keep coverage strong

With 6.0% of Boyd County residents uninsured, the county is doing better than Kentucky overall—but those without coverage should verify their eligibility for Medicaid or marketplace plans annually. Local health clinics and navigators can help ensure families don't fall through coverage gaps.

Schools in Boyd County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Network of 25 Schools

Boyd County operates a comprehensive system of 25 schools serving nearly 7,000 students. The infrastructure is divided into three districts and includes 10 elementary schools and 8 high schools.

Strong Results and High Investment

The county boasts a 92.3% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 87% national benchmark. Boyd County invests $8,151 per pupil, which is well above the state average of $6,894, resulting in a school score of 57.2.

Ashland Independent and Boyd County Districts

Ashland Independent is the largest district by enrollment with 3,261 students, followed closely by Boyd County with 3,102 students. No charter schools are currently operating within the county's boundaries.

Diverse Urban and Suburban Settings

Boyd County offers a mix of 11 city and 9 suburban schools, with an average enrollment of 318 students. Boyd County High School is the largest campus in the county, serving 911 students.

Find a Home Near Quality Schools

Prospective buyers can find a variety of neighborhoods near Boyd County's well-funded schools. Consider how school performance and per-pupil spending can impact your local property values.

Disaster Risk in Boyd County

via RiskByCounty

Boyd County faces above-average disaster risk

Boyd County's composite risk score of 74.94 rates as Relatively Low nationally but sits 50% higher than the national average of roughly 50. This elevated score reflects real exposure to multiple hazards that demand careful preparation and appropriate insurance coverage.

Boyd ranks high among Kentucky's riskiest

At 74.94, Boyd County's composite risk score significantly exceeds Kentucky's state average of 44.21—placing it in the riskier half of the state's county rankings. Residents here face notably greater natural disaster exposure than most Kentuckians.

Flood and wildfire risks exceed regional norms

Boyd County's flood risk of 82.19 and wildfire risk of 68.45 are among the highest in northeastern Kentucky, driven by its Appalachian terrain and proximity to the Big Sandy River. These hazards significantly outpace the risks faced in more stable neighboring areas.

Flooding dominates Boyd's natural disaster profile

Flood risk (82.19) and wildfire risk (68.45) are Boyd County's critical threats, with flooding the far more dangerous due to the region's river systems and steep topography. Tornado risk (51.34) adds another layer of concern for communities in this high-hazard county.

Flood insurance is essential for Boyd residents

Boyd County's 82.19 flood risk makes flood insurance—available through the National Flood Insurance Program—not optional but vital, especially for properties near streams and rivers. Bundle flood coverage with comprehensive homeowners insurance and consider wildfire-resistant upgrades if you live in vulnerable areas.

Weather & Climate in Boyd County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler and Moderate Precipitation

Boyd County is cooler than the national median with an annual average temperature of 53.8°F. Its 46.7 inches of precipitation provides plenty of moisture without the extreme totals of the deep South.

Cooler Than the State Average

Boyd is significantly cooler than the Kentucky average of 56.2°F, representing the state's cooler northeastern flank. It also sees less precipitation than the state average, recording 46.7 inches.

Chilly Winters but Hot Summer Days

Boyd is cooler than Boyle County, with a winter average of 33.7°F compared to Boyle's 35.5°F. However, it sees more extreme heat, logging 35 days above 90°F compared to Boyle's 26.

A Wide Temperature Range Yearly

Summers bring 35 days of 90°F weather, though the seasonal average remains a comfortable 73.4°F. Winters are chilly, averaging 33.7°F, making it one of the cooler regions in the state.

Prepare for Seasonal Temperature Swings

A versatile wardrobe is necessary here to handle 35 extreme heat days and chilly 31.2°F Januarys. The 46.7 inches of rain is manageable, but reliable sump pumps are still recommended for local homes.

Soil Quality in Boyd County

via SoilByCounty

Boyd County's Regional Soil Profile

While specific taxonomic data is missing, local soils are part of a broader landscape often more acidic than the 6.5 national median. Understanding your specific pH is the first step in successful land management.

Evaluating Soil Texture and Workability

Local records do not currently specify the sand, silt, and clay percentages for this county. These ratios are essential for determining if your soil is easy to till or prone to heavy compaction.

Organic Matter and Growing Power

Data for organic matter and water capacity is currently limited in this area. Most Kentucky soils strive to meet or exceed the state average of 3.55% organic matter to support healthy plant growth.

Navigating Local Drainage Challenges

There is currently no dominant drainage class or hydrologic group listed for this county. Observing how water pools after a heavy rain can provide immediate clues about your land's natural hydrology.

Growing Green in Zone 7a

Boyd County is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, offering a slightly longer growing season. This environment is perfect for starting a backyard orchard or a diverse vegetable patch.

Lawn Care in Boyd County

via LawnByCounty

A High Score for Boyd County Lawns

Boyd County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 75.9, significantly higher than the Kentucky state average of 66.3. Situated in Hardiness Zone 7a, the county offers one of the most hospitable environments for turf in the region. Maintaining a green yard here is much simpler than the national median of 50.0.

Warm Summers and Ideal Rainfall

Annual precipitation of 46.7 inches falls right within the ideal range of 30-50 inches for healthy grass. The county faces 35 extreme heat days per year, which is slightly higher than the state average of 30 days. High Growing Degree Days of 3564 indicate a long, active season for mowing and maintenance.

Preparing the Boyd County Foundation

Local soil data is limited, but the region's climate suggests a need for well-drained soil to handle the 46.7 inches of annual rain. Most lawns benefit from aerating in the fall to alleviate compaction and improve oxygen flow to the roots. Aiming for an ideal pH of 6.0-7.0 will help your grass utilize nutrients during the peak growing season.

Strong Defenses Against Dry Weather

With only 4 weeks spent in drought over the last year, Boyd County lawns remain remarkably hydrated. Currently, 0.0% of the county is classified as abnormally dry, which is excellent news for water bills. Keep your blades high during the 35 extreme heat days to shade the soil and retain moisture.

Plan Around the Frost Dates

With the last spring frost typically around April 22nd and the first fall frost on October 23rd, you have a clear window for lawn care. Zone 7a is perfect for Transition Zone grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass or Tall Fescue. Late summer or early fall is the prime time to aerate and overseed for a thick, healthy lawn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Boyd County's county score?
Boyd County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 45.1 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 Boyd County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Boyd County ranks #114 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 Boyd County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Boyd County is $1,233, with an effective tax rate of 0.98%. This earns Boyd County a tax score of 39.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Boyd County?
The median household income in Boyd County, Kentucky is $60,659 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Boyd County earns an income score of 41.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Boyd County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Boyd County scores 45.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #114 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Boyd 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 Boyd County with other counties side by side.