countyscore
50.5
County Score
Cost of Living 93.9Lawn Care 76.7Soil Quality 73.4

County Report Card

About Fulton County, Kentucky

Meeting the National Median

Fulton County hits a composite score of 50.5, landing right at the national median of 50.0. This reflects a balance between world-class affordability and significant socioeconomic hurdles.

Lower Than Kentucky Average

Scoring 50.5 puts Fulton County below the Kentucky state average of 58.6. While housing is incredibly cheap, factors like safety and income pull the overall ranking down.

Top-Tier Housing Affordability

Affordability is world-class, with a cost score of 93.9 and a median gross rent of only $542. The local school system also performs well, earning a respectable score of 66.3 out of 100.

Significant Economic Hurdles

The local economy is a major challenge, as the income score of 1.5 is one of the lowest in the state. Safety also lags with a score of 17.8, indicating higher-than-average crime rates for the area.

A Fixed-Income Haven

Fulton County is a unique fit for retirees on a fixed income or those looking for the state's lowest housing costs. It offers an extremely low barrier to entry for homeownership at $78,100.

Score breakdown

Tax60.8Cost93.9Safety17.8Health26.7Schools66.3Income1.5Risk53.3Water33.7Weather63.2
🏛60.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠93.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼1.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡17.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤26.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓66.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡53.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧33.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨73.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱76.7
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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67.9
Mississippi County
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35.4
Obion County
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New Madrid County
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Deep Dives

Fulton County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Fulton County

via TaxByCounty

Fulton taxes far below national average

Fulton County's 0.720% effective tax rate is less than one-third the national property tax burden, placing it in the bottom 25% nationally. The median tax of just $562 is roughly 79% lower than the national median of $2,690.

Essentially at Kentucky average

At 0.720%, Fulton County's rate matches almost exactly Kentucky's 0.719% state average, placing it squarely in the state's middle tier. However, its median tax of $562 runs 49% below the state median of $1,093, reflecting significantly lower property values.

Among the lowest-taxed in the region

Fulton County's 0.720% rate compares favorably to Estill County (0.691%) and Fleming County (0.715%), making it one of Kentucky's most affordable property tax jurisdictions. The county's lowest median property value ($78,100) in this cohort explains its minimal annual tax burden.

Median home costs $562 annually

A homeowner with Fulton County's median property value of $78,100 pays roughly $562 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, the annual payment including escrow typically reaches about $1,053.

Appeals work even with low values

Property owners in Fulton County should still verify their assessments match market conditions, even in a lower-value market. If your assessed value exceeds comparable sales, requesting a reassessment from the county can lower your tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Fulton County

via CostByCounty

Fulton offers extreme affordability

Fulton County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio masks a deeper story: median household income of just $36,834 (51% below the national average) yields rock-bottom rents of $542/month. This western Kentucky county offers some of America's most affordable housing in absolute terms, though lower incomes reflect limited economic opportunity.

Lowest-income Kentucky county surveyed

Fulton County shows the lowest median household income ($36,834) among all surveyed Kentucky counties, yet maintains a 17.7% rent-to-income ratio just above the state average. At $542/month, Fulton rents are the cheapest in the commonwealth—reflecting economic realities of this rural northwestern county.

Extreme rural affordability

Fulton's $542 rent dramatically undercuts regional alternatives: Fleming ($677), Estill ($689), and Floyd ($713) all cost substantially more. However, Fulton's low incomes and 17.7% ratio suggest that cheap rent alone doesn't solve affordability challenges when wages are this constrained.

Survival budgeting in rural west

Fulton households earning just $36,834 spend $542 on rent (17.7% of income) or $560 on mortgage payments for homes averaging $78,100. While housing costs stay relatively low, the extremely limited income leaves minimal margin for healthcare, transportation, childcare, and other necessities.

Fulton demands realistic expectations

Fulton County's ultra-low rents ($542/month) are genuinely affordable, but the county's strained economy (lowest median income in this survey) means you'll need either remote income, significant savings, or a job offer paying above the local median to avoid financial stress. Compare Fulton's housing bargain against limited employment prospects before relocating.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Fulton County

via IncomeByCounty

Fulton faces 51% national income gap

Fulton County's median household income of $36,834 represents the lowest among profiled counties and falls $37,921 short of the U.S. median of $74,755—a 51% gap. Fulton ranks among America's lowest-earning counties.

Lowest earner in Kentucky

Fulton County's median income of $36,834 ranks dead last statewide, falling 34% below Kentucky's state average of $55,909. Its per capita income of $20,202 is the lowest among all profiled counties.

Significant income shortfall vs. all peers

Fulton ($36,834) earns substantially less than all seven comparison counties, including second-lowest Floyd ($41,582). The county faces structural economic challenges requiring targeted workforce and business development.

Affordable housing, stretched budgets

At 17.7%, Fulton's rent-to-income ratio is favorable, and median home values of $78,100 are the lowest profiled. However, low absolute incomes make any housing cost burdensome for working families.

Start small, build financial resilience

Fulton households earning $36,834 benefit most from emergency savings and employer retirement programs, however modest. Accessing free financial literacy resources and local credit unions can help even small savings grow over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Fulton County

via CrimeByCounty

Fulton County Safety vs. National Trends

Fulton County has a total crime rate of 2,191.4 per 100,000, which is just under the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a safety score of 96.5.

Safety Levels in Western Kentucky

At 96.5, the county’s safety score falls below the state average of 98.8. Three reporting agencies work to manage crime across this western tip of the Commonwealth.

Comparing Local Rates to State Averages

Fulton's total crime rate is nearly triple the state average of 786.2. This makes it a high-activity area compared to many other rural counties in Kentucky.

The Prevalence of Property Offenses

Property crime is the main driver here at 2,098.8 per 100,000, while violent crime is relatively low at 92.6. Residents are statistically more likely to experience theft than any violent encounter.

Securing Property in Fulton County

Homeowners should focus on securing property to mitigate the county's relatively high property crime rate. Simple habits like locking vehicles and installing security cameras can make a significant difference.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Fulton County

via HealthByCounty

Fulton faces severe health disadvantage

At 68.3 years, Fulton County's life expectancy falls 7.8 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years, marking one of America's most vulnerable communities. Over 32% report poor or fair health—the highest rate in this cohort—reflecting concentrated poverty and healthcare access crises.

Among Kentucky's most struggling counties

Fulton's 68.3-year life expectancy ranks 3.9 years below Kentucky's 72.2-year state average, positioning it among the state's most fragile health systems. Its 32.2% poor/fair health rate is the worst among these eight counties, signaling acute need for intervention.

Lowest life expectancy in the region

Fulton's 68.3-year life expectancy trails all nearby counties, rivaling even Floyd County's crisis. Its 32.2% poor/fair health rate represents the deepest health crisis in this geographic cohort, reflecting extreme resource scarcity and systemic disadvantage.

Severe shortage of doctors and services

Fulton has only 15 primary care providers and 32 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among the lowest capacity in Kentucky. With 6.8% uninsured and minimal local infrastructure, residents often travel long distances for basic care, delaying treatment and worsening outcomes.

Coverage is essential in Fulton County

Fulton residents cannot afford to go uninsured—contact kynect.ky.gov or call 1-855-4-KYNECT to secure affordable coverage today. Insurance is your gateway to preventive care, chronic disease management, and the health security your family deserves.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Fulton County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Schools on the Western Edge

Fulton County operates just 5 public schools serving a total of 964 students. This small-scale system includes two high schools, one elementary, and one middle school, divided between two separate districts. The low enrollment allows for a highly personalized education with an average of only 241 students per school.

Exceptional Investment and Academic Success

The county invests $7,637 per student, which is significantly higher than the Kentucky state average of $6,894. This investment pays off with a 93.2% graduation rate and a school score of 56.6, which beats the state average of 55.3. These metrics highlight the benefits of a well-funded, small-school environment.

Two Districts for a Small Population

The Fulton County district serves 640 students across three schools, while the Fulton Independent district manages 324 students in one school. There are no charter schools in operation, maintaining 100% traditional public enrollment. Fulton County Elementary is the largest single site with 331 students.

Rural Roots with Close-Knit Classrooms

Four of the five local schools are in rural settings, fostering a deep connection to the surrounding countryside. With an average size of 241 students, these schools feel more like communities than institutions. Fulton County High School is exceptionally small with only 175 students, ensuring no child is lost in the crowd.

Small-Town Charm and Quality Schools

Fulton County is an excellent choice for buyers looking for a home in a district where every teacher knows every student. The high per-pupil spending and competitive scores make the area a hidden gem for educational value. Consider exploring the quiet, rural properties that offer a short commute to these high-performing, intimate campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Fulton County

via RiskByCounty

Fulton ranks slightly above national average

Fulton County's composite risk score of 46.76 sits moderately above the national average, reflecting somewhat elevated exposure to natural disasters. However, the score masks significant regional variation—earthquake risk is notably high while wildfire risk remains minimal.

Slightly elevated within Kentucky context

Fulton's score of 46.76 slightly exceeds Kentucky's state average of 44.21, placing it in the lower-moderate risk tier. The county's profile is more favorable than most of eastern and central Kentucky's high-risk zones.

Moderate risk in western Kentucky region

Fulton's risk profile (46.76) is notably higher than neighboring Gallatin County (17.27) but similar to Franklin County (64.47) in different directions. The county's western Kentucky location provides some geographic protection compared to eastern regions.

Earthquake risk surprisingly elevated here

Fulton County faces exceptional earthquake risk with a score of 91.92—far exceeding its overall county ranking and the state average. Tornado risk (50.35) presents a secondary but notable concern, while flood and wildfire risks remain relatively modest.

Earthquake coverage warrants serious consideration

Given Fulton's unusually high earthquake risk (91.92), residents should strongly consider adding earthquake insurance to their homeowner policies—it's rarely included in standard coverage. Standard homeowner insurance with tornado riders covers most other natural hazard exposures adequately.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Fulton County

via SoilByCounty

Superior pH Balance in Fulton

Fulton County boasts an impressive pH of 6.46, nearly matching the national median of 6.5. This near-neutrality is much higher than the Kentucky state average of 5.80, making it prime real estate for diverse crops.

Rich Mississippi Floodplain Silts

This soil is dominated by silt at 65.6%, with a low sand content of 13.8%. This heavy silt concentration creates a smooth texture that is highly fertile and easy to work for large-scale farming.

Top-Tier Growing Potential

With a soil score of 73.4, Fulton far exceeds the state average of 56.2. Its available water capacity of 0.200 in/in is superior to the state average, providing excellent drought resistance for crops.

Deep Soils and Moisture Retention

The high silt and 20.6% clay content suggest the land retains moisture well for agriculture. Its location on the Mississippi floodplain contributes to the high-quality, deep soils found throughout the county.

Kentucky's Warmest Garden Spot

Fulton County is in the warm Hardiness Zone 7b, the most southern climate in the state. This enables a longer growing season for cotton, corn, and specialty vegetables that would not survive further north.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Fulton County

via LawnByCounty

Fulton County Offers High Growing Potential

Fulton County's lawn difficulty score of 76.7 indicates a very favorable environment for home landscaping. As a 7b hardiness zone, it is one of the warmest regions in the state, allowing for different grass choices than northern Kentucky.

Warmest Climate in the State

While specific precipitation and heat day data are limited for this county, the 7b hardiness zone suggests a significantly longer and warmer growing season. Homeowners should prepare for higher evaporation rates and potentially more frequent summer watering.

Excellent Soil pH for Turf

Fulton County soil features an average pH of 6.46, falling perfectly within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for lawn health. The soil is relatively light with only 20.6% clay and 13.8% sand, providing a solid foundation for deep root development.

Current Dry Conditions Require Action

Fulton County is currently 100% abnormally dry and has faced 20 weeks of drought over the past year. This significant drought pressure makes water conservation essential; consider drought-tolerant grass varieties to reduce your environmental impact.

Explore Warm-Season Grass Options

Because Fulton is in zone 7b, you might consider Bermuda or Zoysia grass alongside traditional tall fescues. Since frost dates are not provided, wait until the ground is consistently warm before attempting to seed these sun-loving varieties.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fulton County's county score?
Fulton County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 50.5 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 Fulton County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Fulton County ranks #99 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 Fulton County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Fulton County is $562, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Fulton County a tax score of 60.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Fulton County?
The median household income in Fulton County, Kentucky is $36,834 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Fulton County earns an income score of 1.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Fulton County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Fulton County scores 50.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #99 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Fulton 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 Fulton 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.