countyscore
58.1
County Score
Cost of Living 95.3Safety 87Weather & Climate 74.2

County Report Card

About Harlan County, Kentucky

Competitive National Livability Score

Harlan County earns a composite score of 58.1, comfortably beating the national median of 50.0. This score reflects high marks in specific categories that boost its overall appeal.

Matching the State Profile

With a score of 58.1, Harlan County is nearly identical to the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It offers a life experience that is very much in line with the broader state trends.

Unrivaled Affordability and Safety

The county boasts a nearly perfect Cost Score of 95.3 and a high Safety Score of 87.0. With a median home value of only $73,100, it is one of the least expensive places to live in the U.S.

Struggling Health and Income Metrics

Harlan County faces significant hurdles with an Income Score of 1.7 and a Health Score of 27.2. These figures reflect a median income of just $37,198 and a need for better public health outcomes.

Ideal for Maximum Cost Savings

Harlan County is the premier choice for those seeking the lowest possible housing costs in a very safe environment. It is particularly well-suited for those with remote jobs or retirement income looking to live debt-free.

2040608010038.995.38727.2461.734.339.574.2Tax38.9Cost95.3Safety87Health27.2Schools46Income1.7Risk34.3Water39.5Weather74.258.1/100
This county
National avg
3 above average5 below average

Harlan County DNA

Foverall

How Harlan County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Harlan County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (95.3/100) but notably weak in Income (1.7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
38.9-13.100000000000001
Cost
95.3+47.3
Safety
87+32
Health
27.2-22.8
Schools
46-8
Income
1.7-49.3
Risk
34.3-12.700000000000003
Water
39.5-18.5
Weather
74.2+18.200000000000003
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Many homeowners in Harlan County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$73,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$651/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$73,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$26,040/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $37,198/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

11.5

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
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Nearby counties

Lee County
Virginia
52.2
Leslie County
Kentucky
70.1
Hancock County
Tennessee
59.9
Letcher County
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Perry County
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Bell County
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53
Norton city
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Hawkins County
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47.1

Deep Dives

Harlan County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Harlan County

via TaxByCounty

Harlan County taxes rank high nationally

Harlan County's effective tax rate of 0.988% exceeds the national median of roughly 0.85%, placing it among the highest-tax counties in the U.S. However, the median property tax of just $722 remains far below the national median of $2,690, reflecting the county's very low property values.

Highest-tax county in Kentucky

Harlan County's 0.988% effective rate is the highest in the commonwealth, significantly exceeding Kentucky's state average of 0.719%. Though median taxes of $722 seem low, the rate is punitive relative to property values, making Harlan the most tax-burdened county by percentage.

Steepest rate in its region

Harlan County's 0.988% effective tax rate far surpasses every peer county, driven by the region's lowest median home value of $73,100. This combination creates the sharpest tax burden relative to property wealth among these eight counties.

What your Harlan County home costs

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $73,100 pays approximately $722 annually in property taxes at the steep 0.988% rate. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $881 when including escrow and insurance; without a mortgage, it drops to $616.

Appeals are critical in Harlan

Harlan County's unusually high effective tax rate makes assessment accuracy especially important—even small overvaluations have outsized impact. Contact the Harlan County Property Valuation Administrator immediately if you suspect your assessment is inflated; an appeal could meaningfully reduce your burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harlan County

via CostByCounty

Harlan County faces affordability crisis

Harlan County renters spend 21.0% of income on housing—nearly double the national average and the worst ratio in this entire dataset. With a median household income of just $37,198 against $651 monthly rent, residents face genuine affordability strain.

Kentucky's least affordable county

Harlan County's 21.0% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds Kentucky's 17.0% state average and ranks as the state's least affordable among these eight counties. The convergence of low incomes ($37,198) with even modest rents creates unsustainable housing burdens.

Worst-positioned regionally

Harlan County's 21.0% rent-to-income ratio dwarfs every peer, with even the second-worst (Green County at 17.9%) offering significantly better affordability. Median incomes here trail all comparable counties by thousands of dollars.

Housing costs dominate budgets

Renters allocate $651 monthly while homeowners pay just $439 against a median income of $37,198—the lowest in this dataset. Renters dedicate 21% of earnings to housing, leaving minimal room for healthcare, food, transportation, or emergencies.

Challenging market for newcomers

Harlan County offers the lowest home values ($73,100) and some of the cheapest rents, but severe income limitations create a difficult affordability picture overall. Relocators should carefully assess local job prospects and wages before moving—the apparent bargains mask deeper economic challenges.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harlan County

via IncomeByCounty

Harlan County faces severe income challenges

Harlan County's median household income of $37,198 is 50.3% below the U.S. median of $74,755, representing one of America's most economically distressed counties. The profound shortfall reflects decades of industrial decline and limited economic diversification.

Kentucky's lowest income county

At $37,198, Harlan County's median household income is 33.5% below Kentucky's state average of $55,909, placing it among the state's poorest communities. The gap underscores the county's acute economic marginalization.

Significantly trails all sampled counties

Harlan County's $37,198 median income is the lowest by far among the eight sampled counties, falling $3,889 below the next-lowest Green County ($41,087). The gap reflects structural economic barriers distinct even from rural Kentucky's broader struggles.

Housing crisis compounds income poverty

A rent-to-income ratio of 21.0% is the highest among sampled counties, meaning housing costs consume one-fifth of household earnings—significantly above the 30% affordability threshold for those with very low incomes. A median home value of $73,100 offers low absolute prices but represents nearly two years of median household income.

Seek immediate economic opportunity

Harlan County residents facing severe income constraints should prioritize accessing workforce development, vocational training, and higher education opportunities that can unlock wage growth. Community organizations, nonprofits, and government programs offer support for basic financial stability and long-term economic mobility.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harlan County

via CrimeByCounty

Harlan County ranks high for safety

Harlan County features an impressive safety score of 99.5, showcasing its secure nature. Its total crime rate of 293.3 per 100K is roughly eight times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Top-tier safety in the Commonwealth

Harlan County's safety score of 99.5 is significantly better than the Kentucky average of 98.8. Its crime rate of 293.3 per 100K is also much lower than the state's average of 786.2.

Regional leader in low crime rates

Harlan County's crime rate of 293.3 per 100K is lower than most surrounding areas, including Greenup County (334.7). Nine reporting agencies provide comprehensive coverage to ensure this high level of safety.

Violent crime is remarkably rare

The violent crime rate is extremely low at 26.3 per 100K, compared to 369.8 nationally. Property crime is also very limited, with a recorded rate of 267.0 per 100K.

Sustaining a safe Harlan community

Residents contribute to Harlan County's safety by practicing simple home security and looking out for neighbors. Maintaining these habits ensures that property crime rates stay among the lowest in the state.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Harlan County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Town-Centered Education

Harlan County provides 14 public schools for 4,271 students, managed by two distinct school districts. The infrastructure includes nine elementary schools and two high schools, emphasizing early education and graduation preparation.

Strong Graduation Success in the Mountains

Harlan County's 91.6% graduation rate is significantly higher than the national 87% average. The county spends $6,682 per pupil, maintaining a competitive school score of 53.7 against state benchmarks.

Harlan County and Harlan Independent Districts

Harlan County district serves 3,442 students across 11 schools, while the Independent district serves 829 students. There are no charter schools, keeping the community's academic focus on its two established local districts.

Town Staples and Rural Outposts

Ten of the county's schools are located in town centers, while four serve rural areas with an average size of 356 students. Harlan County High is the largest facility, providing a central hub for nearly 1,000 secondary students.

Invest in a Home Near Respected Schools

Families can find high-quality education and a sense of community in Harlan County's town-based school system. Explore local listings to find a home that puts your children within reach of these high-performing districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harlan County

via RiskByCounty

Harlan County carries elevated disaster risk

Harlan County scores 65.74 on the composite risk scale with a Relatively Low rating, exceeding Kentucky's state average of 44.21 by 48%. This positions the county among Kentucky's higher natural disaster exposure zones.

Upper-middle risk across Kentucky

Harlan County ranks notably above Kentucky's median disaster risk, with its 65.74 score placing it in the state's higher-risk band. Approximately 30% of Kentucky counties face comparable or greater exposure.

Riskier than most nearby counties

Harlan County's 65.74 score substantially exceeds Grant County (16.29) and Grayson County (45.26), though trails Hardin County (75.51). Its wildfire risk of 69.82 is particularly pronounced compared to regional peers.

Flooding and wildfires are critical threats

Flood risk at 79.87 is Harlan County's leading hazard, closely followed by wildfire risk at 69.82—both significantly above the state average. Earthquake risk at 56.17 and hurricane risk at 42.55 add additional concerns.

Flood and wildfire insurance essential

Harlan County residents should prioritize homeowners insurance with wildfire coverage alongside separate flood insurance, given the county's 79.87 flood and 69.82 wildfire scores. These hazards represent the county's most significant property risks.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Harlan County

via WaterByCounty

Grade F for Harlan County Compliance

Harlan County receives a Grade F due to 9 health violations over the past five years. Its violation rate of 33.2 per 100,000 residents is nearly identical to the Kentucky state average of 35.7.

Assessed Streams Meet Current Standards

Two water bodies were assessed during the 2022 reporting cycle, and both showed 0.0% impairment. While these specific waters pass federal standards, many other local streams remain unassessed.

Moderate Monitoring of Local Nutrients

The county tracks water quality through 8 sites, recording 1,587 measurements in five years. Physical properties and nutrients are the most frequently measured groups in the local monitoring effort.

Cumberland River Running One-Third Typical Flow

The Cumberland River near Harlan shows a current discharge of 239 cfs, which is only 33% of its long-term mean. These low-flow conditions can impact the overall health and safety of the county's primary source water.

Address Tap Water and Low Flow Risks

With a Grade F for drinking water and the Cumberland River at just 33% of its typical flow, residents should prioritize water safety. Using certified home filters and staying alert to utility health warnings are essential steps for every household.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harlan County

via WeatherByCounty

Wet and Snowy Appalachian Climate

Harlan County is one of the wettest and snowiest regions in Kentucky, with 54.6 inches of rain and 34.6 inches of snow. This far exceeds the national median for both types of precipitation.

High Rainfall in the Eastern Highlands

Harlan’s 54.6 inches of annual precipitation is significantly higher than the Kentucky average of 50.6 inches. While its 55.9°F average temperature is near the state norm, its elevation creates a unique weather profile.

The Snow Capital of the Region

Harlan's 34.6 inches of snow dwarfs the totals of nearby counties like Green or Grayson. It also experiences far fewer extreme heat days than central Kentucky, with only 13 days hitting 90°F.

Heavy Snow and Temperate Summers

Winters are defined by 34.6 inches of snow, the highest in this group, despite a relatively mild January average of 35.6°F. Summers are pleasant and rarely reach extreme temperatures, averaging 73.6°F from June to August.

Prepare for Serious Winter Weather

Residents must be prepared for significant snow accumulation with heavy-duty shovels and potentially 4WD vehicles. The high annual rainfall and mountainous terrain also require careful attention to local flood advisories.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harlan County

via SoilByCounty

Mountainous Soil Profiles

Harlan County's specific pH and taxonomic data are not currently available in the dataset. Mountain soils in the region often require amendments to move away from natural acidity toward the 6.5 national median.

Composition of the Highlands

Specific sand, silt, and clay percentages are not recorded for this area. The rugged terrain often means soils are thinner and more varied than the deep silts found in western Kentucky.

Boosting Appalachian Fertility

Organic matter and water capacity data are currently unlisted for the county. Amending soil with organic material is the best way to approach the state's average of 3.55% organic matter.

Managing Slope and Drainage

There is no dominant drainage class recorded, though steep topography naturally influences how water moves. Gardeners should use terracing or contour planting to manage water flow on sloped land.

Growing High in Zone 7a

Despite the elevation, Harlan County remains in Zone 7a, allowing for a robust selection of fruits and vegetables. The mountain climate and long season make it a unique and rewarding place to garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harlan County

via LawnByCounty

Lush Lawns in Harlan

Harlan County offers an easier-than-average experience for lawn enthusiasts, with a score of 72.6. This is higher than both the state average of 66.3 and the national average of 50. Its position in zone 7a provides a long and productive growing season.

Cool Nights and Wet Days

The county is remarkably cool with only 13 extreme heat days per year, far below the state average of 30. It is also quite wet, receiving 54.6 inches of annual precipitation. These conditions are perfect for maintaining green turf all summer long with very little heat stress.

Moisture and Soil Care

While local soil metrics are limited, the 54.6 inches of rain makes drainage a top priority for any lawn project. Homeowners should watch for moss and fungal growth in shaded or low-lying areas of the yard. Regular dethatching can help keep the grass healthy in this high-moisture environment.

Superior Drought Resistance

Only 5.8% of the county is currently abnormally dry, and there were only three weeks of drought over the entire past year. This makes Harlan one of the most drought-resilient areas in the state. Nature does most of the watering here, saving you time and money on your utility bills.

Best Grass for Harlan

Cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in Harlan's temperate, rainy climate. Plan your seeding between the April 15th last frost and the October 30th first frost to ensure success. With 3,806 growing degree days, your new grass will have plenty of warmth to take hold.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harlan County's county score?
Harlan County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 58.1 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 Harlan County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Harlan County ranks #71 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 Harlan County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Harlan County is $722, with an effective tax rate of 0.99%. This earns Harlan County a tax score of 38.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harlan County?
The median household income in Harlan County, Kentucky is $37,198 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harlan County earns an income score of 1.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harlan County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Harlan County scores 58.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #71 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Harlan 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 Harlan 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.