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.

Score breakdown

Tax49.5Cost98.3Safety84.9Health29.2Schools46Income3.5Risk35.3Water18.2Weather76.2
🏛49.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠98.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼3.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡84.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤29.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡35.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧18.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤76.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨58.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱70.5
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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Wolfe County
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Owsley County
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Deep Dives

Breathitt County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 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

Health in Breathitt County

via HealthByCounty

Significant health crisis in place

Breathitt County residents live an average of just 67.5 years—almost 9 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Over 26.8% of adults report poor or fair health, the highest rate in this regional analysis. These figures mark Breathitt County as one of Kentucky's most health-challenged communities.

Among Kentucky's worst outcomes

At 67.5 years, Breathitt County's life expectancy is 4.7 years below Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years, placing it among the state's lowest-ranked counties. Its 26.8% poor/fair health rate is the highest in this analysis, signaling significant health disparities. Urgent intervention is needed to reverse these trends.

Severe health disadvantage

Breathitt County's 67.5-year life expectancy trails all regional peers, including Bourbon (73.8) and even Bracken (71.5). Its 26.8% poor/fair health rate exceeds every other county analyzed, reflecting compounded challenges. The county provides 44 primary care and 239 mental health providers per 100,000—moderate access that cannot offset broader health crises.

Insurance gaps amid crisis

Breathitt County's uninsured rate of 6.7% is below state average, but many residents struggle with affordability and access even when insured. With 44 primary care providers per 100,000, the county faces both coverage and capacity challenges that limit everyday healthcare availability.

Take action on coverage now

Breathitt County faces a health crisis requiring immediate action—if you're among the 6.7% without insurance, enroll in Medicaid or a marketplace plan today. Once covered, connect with local health clinics and community resources to address the underlying health challenges facing your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

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

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.

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.