countyscore
58.7
County Score
Cost of Living 84.8Safety 82.7Lawn Care 75.5

County Report Card

About Estill County, Kentucky

Above the National Median

Estill County earns a 58.7 composite score, placing it comfortably above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a region that balances exceptional affordability with specific socioeconomic hurdles.

Matching the Kentucky Average

At 58.7, Estill County essentially mirrors the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It maintains a competitive position among its peers by offering significantly lower living costs than urban centers.

Affordability and Personal Safety

Housing is the county's primary advantage, with a cost score of 84.8 reflecting a median rent of just $689. Residents also enjoy a high safety score of 82.7, which outpaces many neighboring districts.

Economic and Health Headwinds

Economic growth remains a hurdle as the income score sits at 6.0 with a median household income of $43,905. Public health also trails behind the national average, scoring 25.0 out of 100.

A Haven for Budget-Conscious Living

This county is an ideal fit for retirees or remote workers who prioritize low living costs and personal safety. The $111,900 median home value offers a very accessible entry point for homeownership.

Score breakdown

Tax64.1Cost84.8Safety82.7Health25Schools36.5Income6Risk58.2Water59.6Weather65.5
🏛64.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠84.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡82.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤25
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓36.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡58.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧59.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75.5
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

Powell County
Kentucky
60.1
Madison County
Kentucky
47.6
Lee County
Kentucky
61.7
Clark County
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47.5
Jackson County
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Montgomery County
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Menifee County
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Owsley County
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Deep Dives

Estill County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Estill County

via TaxByCounty

Estill taxes far below national average

Estill County's effective tax rate of 0.691% is less than half the national median property tax burden, placing it in roughly the bottom 20% nationally. While the typical U.S. homeowner pays $2,690 annually, Estill County residents pay just $773—a savings of nearly $1,900 per year.

Slightly lower than Kentucky average

At 0.691%, Estill County's rate is just below Kentucky's 0.719% state average, ranking it in the middle tier of the state's 120 counties. The county's median property tax of $773 trails the state median of $1,093 by about $320 annually.

Among the lowest in eastern region

Estill County taxes are comparable to nearby Floyd County (0.747%) and Fleming County (0.715%), making it one of the more affordable areas in eastern Kentucky. The county sits well below Fayette County, the state's second-largest metro area, which charges 0.891%.

Median home costs $773 annually

A homeowner with the median property value of $111,900 pays roughly $773 in annual property taxes in Estill County. With a mortgage, escrow payments typically bump that to $1,085 per year.

Check if your assessment is fair

Many Kentucky property owners are assessed above market value and could reduce their tax burden through a formal appeal. If you believe your home is overvalued, contacting your county property tax assessor about a reassessment could pay off.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Estill County

via CostByCounty

Estill rents fit national patterns

Estill County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% sits slightly above the national sweet spot, where housing experts recommend spending no more than 30% of income on rent. While median household income here ($43,905) trails the U.S. average ($74,755) by 41%, local rents at $689/month remain relatively modest compared to national markets.

Above Kentucky average affordability

Estill's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it in the middle tier of affordability across the commonwealth. At $689/month, local rents run 11% below the state median of $771, offering relief despite below-average incomes.

Competing in the regional market

Estill's $689 rent compares favorably to nearby Floyd County ($713) and sits between Fleming County ($677) and Fayette County's urban premium ($1,101). However, Estill faces higher affordability pressure than neighboring Fleming (16.4% ratio) due to lower median incomes, making it a working-class rental market.

Where your income goes

A typical Estill household earning $43,905 annually spends $689 on rent (18.8% of income) or $607 on mortgage payments, with homebuyers looking at properties valued around $111,900. These proportions stay below the danger zone, leaving room for other essentials in a modest budget.

Considering Estill? Here's what to know

If you're seeking Kentucky rental affordability without sacrificing too much income, Estill offers reasonable rents with cost-of-living advantages—though you'll want to compare job opportunities and income potential against nearby options like Fayette County's higher wages. The county's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably within the acceptable range, making it accessible for working families.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Estill County

via IncomeByCounty

Estill trails U.S. income by 41%

Estill County's median household income of $43,905 sits well below the national median of $74,755, a gap of $30,850. This places Estill in the lower tier of U.S. counties for household earnings.

Below average for Kentucky

Estill's median income falls 21% short of Kentucky's state average of $55,909, ranking it among the lower-earning counties statewide. The per capita income of $24,142 also trails the state average of $29,616 by $5,474.

Near the bottom of eastern peers

Compared to neighboring counties, Estill ($43,905) earns more than Floyd ($41,582) and Fulton ($36,834), but trails Fleming ($49,663) and Gallatin ($62,247). Among its regional cluster, Estill ranks fifth out of eight counties profiled.

Rent affordable, homeownership challenging

At 18.8%, Estill's rent-to-income ratio sits below the cautionary 30% threshold, suggesting renters can manage housing costs. However, with median home values at $111,900 and median income at $43,905, homeownership requires careful financial planning.

Build stability through intentional saving

Estill households earning $43,905 annually have room to prioritize emergency savings and retirement accounts—even small consistent contributions compound over time. Consider seeking out low-cost investment tools and local financial counseling to grow household wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Estill County

via CrimeByCounty

Estill County Ranks High for National Safety

Estill County records a total crime rate of 410.2 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This impressive performance earns the county a high safety score of 99.4 out of 100.

Outperforming the Kentucky Safety Average

With a safety score of 99.4, Estill County outpaces the Kentucky state average of 98.8. Local law enforcement maintains a secure environment that ranks among the safer jurisdictions in the Commonwealth.

A Low-Crime Alternative in the Region

Compared to the state average total crime rate of 786.2, Estill County provides a notably safer alternative for residents. It sits well below the state benchmark, suggesting a quieter environment than many neighboring regions.

Violent Crime Remains Extremely Rare

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 21.2 per 100,000 residents, while property crime accounts for 389.0 incidents. These figures show that while some theft occurs, physical safety remains exceptionally high for the community.

Staying Proactive in a Safe County

Even with a high safety score, maintaining awareness helps keep these numbers low. Consider basic home security measures like outdoor lighting to discourage the property crimes that make up the bulk of local incidents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Estill County

via HealthByCounty

Estill's life expectancy lags the nation

At 69.5 years, Estill County residents live about 6 years shorter than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Nearly 27% report poor or fair health, compared to the national average of 18%, signaling deeper health challenges ahead.

Among Kentucky's lowest life expectancies

Estill's 69.5-year life expectancy ranks well below Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years. The county's 27.4% poor/fair health rate exceeds the state average, placing it among the state's most struggling health communities.

Worse health than neighboring counties

Estill's life expectancy trails nearby Fleming County (72.6 years) and Fayette County (76.7 years) by significant margins. Its poor/fair health rate of 27.4% is also higher than most adjacent counties, reflecting concentrated health disparities.

Limited doctors, higher uninsured rates

Estill has just 21 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—less than one-third of Fayette County's capacity. With 7.8% of residents uninsured and sparse provider networks, routine care and preventive medicine remain out of reach for many.

Explore health coverage options today

If you're among Estill's uninsured, check kynect.ky.gov or call 1-855-4-KYNECT to explore Medicaid and marketplace plans. Even with a modest income, you may qualify for financial help—and coverage could be life-changing.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Estill County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Rural School System

Estill County supports a focused infrastructure of 7 public schools serving 2,202 total students. The network includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and three high schools, all managed by a single local district. This compact system maintains an intimate educational environment with an average of 367 students per school.

Graduation Rates Outpace the National Average

The county reports a strong 92.0% graduation rate, significantly exceeding the national benchmark of 87%. While per-pupil spending of $5,547 sits below the state average of $6,894, the district maintains a school score of 51.4. This indicates steady performance relative to the national median despite tighter financial resources.

One District Leading the Way

The Estill County school district manages all 2,202 students across its six primary facilities. There are currently no charter schools in operation, representing 0% of the local educational landscape. This unified district model ensures consistent curriculum and resource allocation across the entire county.

A Blend of Rural and Town Settings

Education here happens in a mix of four rural and three town-based schools, offering a classic community feel. Estill County High School is the largest campus with 644 students, providing a contrast to the South Irvine Early Learning Center which serves just 166 children. Most students attend schools like West Irvine Elementary, which houses roughly 468 students in a primary setting.

Finding a Home in Estill County

Families looking for a tight-knit community often prioritize Estill County for its high graduation rates and manageable school sizes. As you research local real estate, consider how proximity to top-performing elementary schools can impact long-term home value. The area offers a quiet, rural lifestyle without sacrificing academic results.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Estill County

via RiskByCounty

Estill ranks very low on national risk scale

With a composite risk score of 41.79, Estill County sits well below the national average and poses minimal exposure to major natural disasters. This very low rating means residents face fewer compound hazard threats than most U.S. counties, though localized flood risks warrant attention in vulnerable areas.

Among Kentucky's safest counties

Estill's score of 41.79 ranks it near the bottom of Kentucky's risk spectrum, sitting well below the state average of 44.21. The county's profile reflects relatively modest exposure across nearly all major hazard categories compared to higher-risk peers.

Safer than nearby eastern Kentucky counties

Estill's risk profile is significantly lower than neighboring Floyd County (94.18), one of Kentucky's highest-risk counties, and moderately better positioned than Fayette County (92.05). Among comparable Appalachian-area neighbors, Estill sits in the safer tier.

Flooding poses the most pressing threat

Estill's flood risk score of 63.90 is its highest hazard exposure, driven by the county's topography and proximity to waterways. Wildfire risk (44.66) represents a secondary concern, particularly during dry seasons in forested areas across the county.

Flood insurance makes the most sense

Although Estill's overall risk is low, residents in flood-prone zones should secure flood insurance—standard homeowner policies don't cover water damage. A modest earthquake insurance rider provides affordable added protection given the county's low seismic risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Estill County

via WeatherByCounty

A Mild Temperate Climate

Estill County's annual average temperature of 54.7°F sits slightly above the national median. This climate type offers a balanced transition between the cooler Midwest and the warmer South.

Cooler than the Kentucky Average

At 54.7°F, Estill is cooler than the Kentucky state average of 56.2°F. It ranks among the more temperate counties in the eastern part of the Commonwealth.

Consistent Precipitation for the Region

The county receives 50.9 inches of rain annually, which is almost identical to the state average of 50.6 inches. This steady moisture supports the lush vegetation found in neighboring Appalachian counties.

Distinct Seasons and Moderate Heat

Summers average a comfortable 73.3°F, though residents still face 18 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winter temperatures typically hover around 35.6°F, providing a crisp but rarely bitter cold season.

Rain Gear and Summer Cooling

Residents should maintain gutters to handle the 50.9 inches of annual rainfall. With 18 days of extreme heat, efficient home cooling systems are a necessity for July's 74.9°F average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Estill County

via SoilByCounty

Diverse Appalachian Soils in Estill

While specific taxonomic and pH data are unavailable for Estill, the county sits within a region known for diverse Appalachian terrain. Its Hardiness Zone 6b suggests a climate capable of supporting varied forestry and local gardening.

Regional Foothill Textures

Data on the specific mix of sand, silt, and clay for Estill is currently limited. Local gardeners typically encounter the rocky or clay-heavy soils common to the Kentucky River foothills.

Managing Fertility in the River Valley

Records for organic matter in Estill are not currently available in this dataset. Local managers should aim for the state average of 3.55% organic matter to ensure high growing potential.

Planning for Mountainous Runoff

While specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the county's varied elevation influences how water moves through the landscape. Builders and farmers should perform site-specific tests to determine drainage capabilities.

Thriving in Zone 6b

Estill County falls in Hardiness Zone 6b, making it a great spot for cool-season vegetables and hearty fruit trees. Residents can lean into the local climate to grow successful home gardens.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Estill County

via LawnByCounty

Estill County Boasts High Lawn Success

Estill County earns a lawn difficulty score of 75.5, making it significantly easier to maintain a yard here than the national median of 50.0. Located in hardiness zone 6b, the local climate is also friendlier than the Kentucky state average of 66.3.

Mild Heat Protects Grass Health

The county receives 50.9 inches of annual precipitation, which perfectly matches the high end of the ideal range for lush turf. With only 18 extreme heat days per year compared to the state average of 30, your lawn escapes the harshest summer scorching.

Prioritize a Professional Soil Test

While specific county-wide soil data is currently unavailable, local experts recommend testing your specific plot for pH and drainage needs. Knowing your unique soil composition helps you avoid over-fertilizing while ensuring your 6b climate supports root growth.

Stable Moisture Lowers Watering Needs

Estill County only faced three weeks of drought over the last year and currently reports zero percent abnormal dryness. You can maintain this resilience by watering deeply and early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.

Seed Tall Fescue for Best Results

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are ideal for zone 6b, with the best seeding window falling between April 20 and October 19. Start your lawn projects in early spring to capitalize on the 3,664 growing degree days available this season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Estill County's county score?
Estill County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 58.7 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 Estill County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Estill County ranks #69 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 Estill County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Estill County is $773, with an effective tax rate of 0.69%. This earns Estill County a tax score of 64.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Estill County?
The median household income in Estill County, Kentucky is $43,905 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Estill County earns an income score of 6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Estill County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Estill County scores 58.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #69 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Estill 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 Estill County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.