countyscore
59.8
County Score
Cost of Living 98.3Safety 84.9Weather & Climate 76.2

County Report Card

About Breathitt County, Kentucky

Higher Than the National Median

Breathitt County scores a 59.8 overall, exceeding the national median of 50.0. This high composite score is largely driven by its extreme affordability rather than high incomes.

Beating the State Average

With a 59.8 score, Breathitt outperforms the Kentucky average of 58.6. It offers a unique value proposition compared to other Eastern Kentucky counties.

Nation-Leading Affordability and Safety

The county boasts a near-perfect Cost Score of 98.3, with a median rent of just $543 and median home values at $61,800. It also maintains a strong Safety Score of 84.9, indicating a peaceful community.

Significant Income and Health Gaps

The Income Score of 3.5 is among the lowest in the nation, reflecting a median household income of $41,101. Low scores in Water (18.2) and Health (29.2) highlight critical infrastructure and wellness needs.

Ideal for Maximizing Fixed Income

Breathitt County is best suited for retirees or those on a fixed budget who prioritize low housing costs and safety. It offers an incredibly low entry point for homeownership in a safe setting.

2040608010049.598.384.929.2463.535.318.276.2Tax49.5Cost98.3Safety84.9Health29.2Schools46Income3.5Risk35.3Water18.2Weather76.259.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Breathitt County DNA

Foverall

How Breathitt County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Breathitt County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (98.3/100) but notably weak in Income (3.5/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
49.5
Cost
98.3+50.3
Safety
84.9+29.900000000000006
Health
29.2-20.8
Schools
46-8
Income
3.5-47.5
Risk
35.3-11.700000000000003
Water
18.2-39.8
Weather
76.2+20.200000000000003
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Breathitt County?

Many homeowners in Breathitt County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$61,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$543/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$61,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$21,720/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.5x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $41,101/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

44.6

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Breathitt County with Custer County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Custer County
Idaho
Median income: $56,957
59.8
Edgar County
Illinois
Median income: $56,909
59.8
Perry County
Illinois
Median income: $59,286
59.8
Fayette County
Indiana
Median income: $56,659
59.8
Houston County
Minnesota
Median income: $77,087
59.8
White Pine County
Nevada
Median income: $72,294
59.8
Jones County
North Carolina
Median income: $55,659
59.8
Coal County
Oklahoma
Median income: $48,162
59.8

Nearby counties

Magoffin County
Kentucky
64.8
Wolfe County
Kentucky
71
Perry County
Kentucky
60.6
Owsley County
Kentucky
68.8
Lee County
Kentucky
61.7
Knott County
Kentucky
67.8
Morgan County
Kentucky
62.4
Leslie County
Kentucky
70.1

Deep Dives

Breathitt County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Breathitt County

via TaxByCounty

Breathitt's rate competitive, homes most affordable

Breathitt County's effective tax rate of 0.843% remains below most national benchmarks, and its median home value of $61,800 is the lowest in the nation by a wide margin. Breathitt residents pay just $521 annually in property taxes—the lowest among these eight counties and a fraction of the national median.

Breathitt rate slightly above state average

At 0.843%, Breathitt County's effective rate exceeds Kentucky's state average of 0.719%, though the difference is modest. The county's very affordable housing stock keeps absolute tax bills low despite the above-average rate.

Breathitt combines low rates with low values

Breathitt's 0.843% rate ranks fourth among the eight counties, but its median home value of $61,800 is the lowest by far. This combination results in the lowest median property tax payment of just $521 annually in the entire group.

Breathitt's most affordable tax footprint

The median Breathitt County home valued at $61,800 generates an annual property tax of only $521. With mortgage deductions included, the bill rises to $934; without them, it drops to $428.

Even in Breathitt, review your assessment

While Breathitt's absolute tax bills are modest, assessment errors still matter proportionally to homeowners' incomes here. If your property was last assessed several years ago or your home's condition has deteriorated, an appeal could further reduce your annual costs.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Breathitt County

via CostByCounty

Breathitt offers deep rent savings

Breathitt County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.8% beats the national average, with a median rent of just $543 monthly—roughly 28% below the typical American renter's burden. The county's low-income economy creates genuinely affordable rental housing, though household incomes lag significantly behind national norms.

Affordable despite lower incomes

Breathitt County's 15.8% rent-to-income ratio compares favorably to Kentucky's 17.0% state average, even as its median household income of $41,101 runs 27% below the state norm. This rare affordability advantage stems from exceptionally low rents rather than robust incomes.

Dramatically cheaper than most peers

Breathitt County's $543 rent is $200+ cheaper than neighbors Bourbon, Boyd, and Boyle, and its $61,800 median home value is half that of most regional peers. For renters and buyers on extremely tight budgets, Breathitt delivers unmatched cost savings.

Lowest costs, lowest incomes trade-off

Breathitt County's median household income of $41,101 is the lowest in this group, but housing costs mirror that reality—$543 rent and $450 home ownership payments stay proportionally affordable. The challenge here isn't affordability ratios but rather the absolute income levels available in this economically distressed county.

Breathitt for rock-bottom housing costs

If housing affordability is your sole metric, Breathitt County offers Kentucky's cheapest rents and home values—but weigh this against limited job opportunities and lower income levels. Consider Breathitt as a remote-work haven or retirement destination where your dollars stretch furthest.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Breathitt County

via IncomeByCounty

Breathitt County faces significant income gap

Breathitt County's median household income of $41,101 is 45% below the national median of $74,755, the largest gap in this group. This reflects acute economic challenges in eastern Kentucky's coal-dependent regions.

Bottom tier statewide income ranking

Breathitt County's $41,101 median household income ranks well below Kentucky's state average of $55,909, placing it among the state's lowest-income counties. Per capita income of $23,544 trails the state average by 20%.

Significantly lower than peer counties

Breathitt County earns substantially less than all nearby counties—Boyle ($61,635), Boyd ($60,659), and even Breckinridge ($53,673). Income challenges here are more severe than in neighboring communities.

Low housing costs offset low wages

At 15.8%, Breathitt County's rent-to-income ratio remains manageable despite modest overall earnings. Median home values of $61,800—the lowest in this group—mean housing affordability isn't the primary challenge; wage growth is.

Invest in skills and opportunities

Breathitt County residents should prioritize career development and education as pathways to higher earnings. Even modest contributions to savings accounts and micro-investment platforms can compound into financial security over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Breathitt County

via CrimeByCounty

Breathitt County exhibits high public safety

Breathitt County reports a total crime rate of only 353.5 per 100,000 residents, far below the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county an elite safety score of 99.4.

A leader in Kentucky safety

The county's safety score of 99.4 is higher than the Kentucky state average of 98.8. With a total crime rate of 353.5, Breathitt is twice as safe as the average Kentucky county.

Low crime rates compared to neighbors

Breathitt County is significantly safer than Bullitt County, which has a crime rate of 1,007.5. It maintains a safety profile similar to Butler County, which sits at 372.0 per 100,000.

Remarkably low violent crime rates

Breathitt County records a violent crime rate of just 29.5, which is less than 10% of the national average. Property crime is also low at 324.0, representing the vast majority of all local reports.

Preserving peace in Breathitt County

Residents benefit from an exceptionally safe environment where violent crime is nearly non-existent. Standard home maintenance and visibility help deter the minor property crimes that occasionally occur.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Breathitt County

via SchoolsByCounty

Educational Landscape in Breathitt County

Breathitt County supports 2,049 students across eight schools and two districts. The infrastructure is unique for having four high schools and two alternative education programs for its size.

Solid Graduation Rates and Local Scores

Breathitt County reports a 91.7% graduation rate, outpacing the national average. With a per-pupil expenditure of $6,670, the county maintains a school score of 53.7, reflecting steady performance across its rural and town campuses.

Breathitt County and Jackson Independent

The Breathitt County district manages 1,700 students across six schools, while Jackson Independent serves 349 students in a single school. Charter schools represent 0% of the educational offerings here.

A Balanced Mix of Town and Country

The county features an even split between town and rural school settings, with an average enrollment of 293 students. Breathitt County High is the largest school in the area, serving 763 students.

Make Breathitt County Your Family Home

With a mix of town convenience and rural charm, Breathitt County offers diverse environments for students. Explore local housing near top-rated schools to enjoy the benefits of a focused educational community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Breathitt County

via RiskByCounty

Breathitt County faces elevated national risks

Breathitt County's composite risk score of 64.66 and Relatively Low rating sit 30% above the national average of roughly 50. This elevated score reflects significant exposure to multiple natural hazards, particularly in flood and wildfire-prone Appalachian terrain.

Breathitt ranks above Kentucky's average

With a score of 64.66, Breathitt County substantially exceeds Kentucky's state average of 44.21, placing it in the higher-risk tier of commonwealth counties. Only the state's most hazardous counties face comparable natural disaster exposure.

Highest hazard in southeastern Kentucky

Breathitt County's flood risk (82.35) and wildfire risk (69.91) are among the most severe in the eastern Appalachian region, driven by rugged terrain and dense forests. These twin threats substantially exceed the risks faced in neighboring lower-elevation counties.

Flooding and wildfires dominate Breathitt's profile

Flood risk (82.35) and wildfire risk (69.91) are Breathitt County's critical concerns, with both reaching dangerous levels due to Appalachian topography and forest cover. Earthquake risk (41.63) ranks third and merits attention in seismic planning.

Flood and wildfire coverage are non-negotiable

Breathitt County residents must secure flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program—standard homeowners policies do not cover flooding. Add wildfire-resistant home improvements and comprehensive coverage to protect against the county's dual greatest threats.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Breathitt County

via WaterByCounty

Critical Drinking Water Violations Noted

Breathitt County holds a Grade F with 15 health violations recorded over the last five years. The violation rate of 151.9 per 100,000 residents is more than four times the Kentucky average.

Broadly Assessed Waters Show Zero Impairment

Eight different water bodies were assessed during the 2022 cycle, and all were found to be 0% impaired. This suggests that the source water itself meets standards despite issues at the tap.

Robust Monitoring Footprint Across Seven Sites

The county features nearly 5,000 recent measurements across seven active monitoring sites. Frequent testing focuses on inorganic metals and physical properties to track water quality trends.

Reduced Flow on North Fork Kentucky River

At Jackson, the North Fork Kentucky River is running at 297 cfs, which is 21% of its typical volume. Low flow levels can concentrate existing contaminants, adding pressure to the water system.

Immediate Steps for Water Safety

Given the Grade F compliance rating, residents should strongly consider using high-quality water filters or independent testing. The low river flow further emphasizes the need for caution with drinking water.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Breathitt County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced Appalachian Climate Patterns

Breathitt County averages 55.9°F annually, aligning closely with the national median for the mid-latitudes. The region benefits from a humid subtropical climate that provides distinct seasonal transitions.

Typical Kentucky Temperature Profile

At 55.9°F, Breathitt County sits just 0.3 degrees below the state average of 56.2°F. It represents the typical climate experience found across much of eastern Kentucky.

A Snowy Mountain Outlier

While many Kentucky counties see little accumulation, Breathitt records 23.4 inches of annual snowfall. Its precipitation of 50.4 inches is almost identical to the state average of 50.6 inches.

Mild Summers and Snowy Winters

Breathitt enjoys remarkably mild summers with only 11 days reaching 90°F, far fewer than western Kentucky. Winter temperatures average 37.1°F, often accompanied by significant snowfall.

Winter Readiness is Essential

Given the 23.4 inches of snow, residents should invest in quality winter tires and reliable home heating. Summer cooling costs are generally lower here than in the hotter western parts of the state.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Breathitt County

via SoilByCounty

Breathitt County's High-Scoring Soil

With a soil score of 58.5, this county outperforms the Kentucky state average of 56.2. Its average pH of 5.54 is more acidic than the national median of 6.5, which may require lime for certain crops.

A Complex Texture Profile

The soil consists of 26.5% sand, 31.9% silt, and 13.3% clay. This balanced mix provides a stable structure for roots while maintaining enough silt for decent workability.

Exceptional Organic Wealth

Organic matter is an extraordinary 21.38%, dwarfing the state average of 3.55% and the national average of 2.0%. While the water capacity of 0.154 in/in is below the state average, the high organic content offers massive nutrient potential.

Understanding Local Water Flow

While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high organic matter suggests strong moisture retention capabilities. Gardeners should still watch for saturated roots given the soil's unique composition.

Abundant Growth in Zone 7a

Breathitt County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. With such rich organic matter and a favorable climate, this is an excellent environment for high-yield vegetable gardens and fruit trees.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Breathitt County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Growth in Breathitt County

Breathitt County earns a 70.5 lawn difficulty score, making it easier to maintain than the state average of 66.3. Situated in Hardiness Zone 7a, the county offers a stable climate compared to the national median score of 50.0. Most homeowners find the local weather patterns support consistent, healthy turf.

Abundant Rain and Cool Summers

The county receives 50.4 inches of rain annually, matching the state average exactly. Breathitt is notably cooler than its neighbors, with only 11 extreme heat days compared to the Kentucky average of 30. This low heat stress means your grass spends more time growing and less time in summer dormancy.

Correcting Acidic Soil Conditions

The local soil has a pH of 5.54, which is more acidic than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most grasses. With a clay content of 13.3% and sand at 26.5%, the soil texture is relatively balanced but will require lime to raise the pH. Amending the soil now will unlock nutrients that are currently trapped by the high acidity.

Unmatched Drought Resilience

Breathitt County recorded only 1 week in drought over the last year, reflecting very high moisture stability. There are currently no abnormally dry conditions reported for the area. Because the county faces so few extreme heat days, the soil retains its 50.4 inches of rainfall much more effectively than other regions.

Start Strong in Zone 7a

Tall Fescue is a great choice for this area, especially given the soil's current acidity levels. Your growing window starts after April 19th and lasts until the first frost around November 1st. Correcting your soil pH this fall will set the stage for a dramatic improvement in lawn density by next spring.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Breathitt County's county score?
Breathitt County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 59.8 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 Breathitt County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Breathitt County ranks #60 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 Breathitt County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Breathitt County is $521, with an effective tax rate of 0.84%. This earns Breathitt County a tax score of 49.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Breathitt County?
The median household income in Breathitt County, Kentucky is $41,101 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Breathitt County earns an income score of 3.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Breathitt County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Breathitt County scores 59.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #60 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Breathitt 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 Breathitt County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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