countyscore
60.5
County Score
Safety 76Lawn Care 75Soil Quality 66.4

County Report Card

About Harrison County, Kentucky

Harrison County Exceeds National Standards

Harrison County earns a composite score of 60.5, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This strong performance indicates a quality of life that outpaces the typical American county.

A Top Performer in Kentucky

With a score of 60.5, Harrison County outperforms the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It maintains a competitive edge over many neighbors by balancing affordability with public safety.

Safety and Low Taxes Drive Appeal

The county excels in safety with a high score of 76.0 and maintains a low tax burden reflected in its 65.6 tax score. Homeowners benefit from an effective tax rate of just 0.679%, leaving more money in local pockets.

Improving Water Infrastructure and Health Outcomes

Harrison County faces its steepest challenges in water quality, where it scores a 39.4. Health metrics also lag behind at 46.5, suggesting a need for better access to wellness resources.

Ideal for Secure and Affordable Living

This county is a perfect match for families prioritizing safety and low overhead. With median rents at $755 and high safety ratings, it offers a secure, budget-friendly lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax65.6Cost64.1Safety76Health46.5Schools50.6Income49Risk66.2Water39.4Weather59.2
🏛65.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠64.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼49
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡76
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡66.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧39.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75
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

Robertson County
Kentucky
67.1
Pendleton County
Kentucky
59.5
Scott County
Kentucky
49.4
Bourbon County
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51.3
Nicholas County
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Grant County
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Bracken County
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Owen County
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Deep Dives

Harrison County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Harrison County

via TaxByCounty

Harrison's tax rate beats national average

At 0.679%, Harrison County's effective property tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.88%, placing it in the lower third of all U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay $1,282 in median annual property tax—less than half the national median of $2,690—despite living in a state with an average rate of 0.719%.

Among Kentucky's lowest taxed counties

Harrison ranks near the bottom of Kentucky's 120 counties for property tax burden, with an effective rate just below the state average of 0.719%. This positions Harrison as a relatively affordable county for homeowners seeking to minimize annual tax obligations.

Lower than most surrounding counties

Harrison's 0.679% rate beats neighboring Henry County (0.821%) and Henderson County (0.878%), though it runs slightly higher than Jackson County's 0.638%. Among comparable mid-sized counties in the region, Harrison offers moderate tax relief for homeowners.

Median home, typical annual tab

A median-valued home in Harrison County at $188,900 generates approximately $1,282 in annual property taxes. For homeowners with mortgages, the total tax obligation including escrow reaches $1,492 per year; those paying outright owe $883.

Check if you're overassessed

Many Kentucky homeowners are unaware they may be overassessed on their property values. If your home's assessed value seems high compared to recent sales nearby, you can file a formal appeal with the county assessor's office—potentially lowering your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harrison County

via CostByCounty

Harrison County beats national affordability

Renters in Harrison County spend just 14.3% of their income on housing, well below the national threshold of affordability and notably better than Kentucky's 17.0% state average. At $755 per month, median rent here runs nearly $20 below the state median, while household income sits at $63,205—just 15% below the national median of $74,755.

Among Kentucky's most affordable counties

Harrison County ranks as one of Kentucky's most housing-friendly markets, with a rent-to-income ratio that outperforms 80% of the state. This affordability advantage reflects both moderate rental costs and relatively stable incomes compared to rural Kentucky counties.

Affordable compared to regional peers

Harrison County's $755 rent is competitive across the region—lower than Henderson County ($794) and Henry County ($871), though slightly above Hart County ($692). For homebuyers, the median home value of $188,900 offers solid middle ground between more expensive Jefferson County and more affordable rural alternatives.

Rent, mortgages, and income balance

Monthly housing costs break down to $755 for renters and $807 for homeowners, both manageable on a median income of $63,205. This means the average household devotes roughly 14% of monthly earnings to housing—leaving room for other essentials.

Consider Harrison for balanced living

If you're weighing Kentucky counties, Harrison offers the rare combination of below-state-average housing costs and above-average incomes. Compare your situation: earn $63,205 or more and you'll find housing here genuinely affordable.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harrison County

via IncomeByCounty

Harrison beats national income average

Harrison County's median household income of $63,205 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by about 15% less, placing it below the U.S. average but solidly middle-class. The county's per capita income of $31,696 is about 7% higher than the national median per capita, suggesting stronger individual earning power.

Top earners in Kentucky

At $63,205, Harrison County households earn 13% more than Kentucky's state average of $55,909. This positions Harrison in the upper tier of Kentucky counties by median household income.

Harrison leads surrounding counties

Harrison County's $63,205 median income exceeds nearby Henderson ($58,239) and Hopkins ($57,610) counties. The county ranks among the strongest earners in its region, second only to Jefferson County's $67,849.

Housing remains affordable here

With a 14.3% rent-to-income ratio, Harrison County households spend well below the recommended 30% threshold on housing. A median home value of $188,900 aligns with the income profile, making homeownership accessible for median-earning families.

Build on strong local earnings

Harrison County's above-average income creates opportunity for wealth building through retirement savings and investment. Consider maximizing employer 401(k) matches and opening a Roth IRA—your household income level qualifies you for full contributions.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harrison County

via CrimeByCounty

Harrison County Outshines National Safety Standards

Harrison County maintains a high safety score of 99.1, significantly outperforming the national average. Its total crime rate of 574.4 per 100K is about one-fourth of the national benchmark of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer in the Commonwealth

With a total crime rate sitting well below the Kentucky average of 786.2, Harrison ranks among the safer regions in the state. Its safety score beats the state average of 98.8 by a healthy margin.

Consistently Safe Among Regional Peers

Harrison performs better than neighboring counties like Henry, which has a similar safety score but slightly higher crime rates. It maintains a peaceful environment relative to more urban Kentucky centers.

Property Crime Dominates Local Reports

The vast majority of local crime is property-related, occurring at a rate of 547.8 per 100K. Violent crime is remarkably rare here, with just 26.6 incidents per 100K residents compared to the national average of 369.8.

Proactive Habits Maintain High Safety

Even in safe areas like Harrison, simple security measures like smart locks and motion lighting go a long way. Stay proactive about your property safety to keep these impressive numbers steady.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Harrison County

via HealthByCounty

Harrison's Life Expectancy Lags Nation

Residents of Harrison County live to an average of 72.3 years, nearly 6 years less than the U.S. average of 78.1 years. One in five people report poor or fair health, reflecting underlying chronic conditions that shorten lives across the region.

Slightly Above Kentucky's Health Baseline

Harrison County's 72.3-year life expectancy edges out Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years, placing it in the middle tier of the state's 120 counties. The county's 21% poor/fair health rate sits below the state burden, suggesting better-than-average health management here.

Healthier Than Rural Peers

Harrison residents outlive those in Jackson County (71.1 years) and Hickman County (71.5 years), but fall slightly short of Henderson County's 73.3 years. Primary care access here—53 providers per 100,000—mirrors Henderson's availability and beats rural neighbors like Jackson County's 23 per 100,000.

Strong Insurance Coverage, Good Access

Only 6.2% of Harrison County residents lack health insurance, better than Kentucky's 7% average and among the state's best rates. With 53 primary care providers and 57 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, the county offers solid day-to-day healthcare infrastructure.

Explore Your Health Insurance Options

Even in Harrison County's relatively strong market, nearly 1 in 16 residents remain uninsured. Visit kynect.ky.gov or call 1-855-4KY-ENROLL to review plans—you may qualify for subsidies that make coverage affordable.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Harrison County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Consolidated Educational Network in Harrison County

Harrison County maintains a streamlined infrastructure of 8 public schools, including four elementary campuses, one middle school, and three high schools. A single unified district manages the entire local network, serving a total student body of 2,896. This centralized approach ensures consistent resources across the county’s primary and secondary facilities.

High Graduation Rates Outpace National Benchmarks

The county boasts an impressive 96.0% graduation rate, significantly exceeding both the Kentucky average of 93.8% and the national mark of 87.0%. While the per-pupil expenditure of $5,733 sits below the state average of $6,894, the district maintains a competitive school score of 53.9. Local educators deliver these results despite an investment level roughly half the national average of $13,000 per student.

The Harrison County School District Advantage

The Harrison County district serves as the sole educational provider, overseeing all 2,896 enrolled students. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county, concentrating all public funding and administrative focus on traditional district schools. This creates a cohesive academic environment for families moving to the area.

A Blend of Town and Rural Learning

Education here occurs in a mix of five town-based and three rural settings, with an average school size of 414 students. Harrison County High School is the largest campus with 865 students, while Southside Elementary School offers a smaller environment with 347 students. This balance provides families with a choice between bustling high school atmospheres and more intimate primary school settings.

Find a Home Near Harrison County Schools

High graduation rates and a strong community focus make Harrison County a top choice for families prioritizing education. Use our local data to explore homes near high-performing campuses like Eastside Elementary. Investing in a home here means joining a district that consistently outperforms state benchmarks.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harrison County

via RiskByCounty

Harrison County's low risk profile

Harrison County scores 33.78 on the composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and sitting well below Kentucky's state average of 44.21. This places the county among the safer regions for natural disaster risk in the commonwealth.

Top-tier safety ranking in Kentucky

Harrison County ranks favorably among Kentucky's 120 counties for overall natural disaster risk. Its Very Low rating reflects relatively moderate exposure across most hazard types compared to riskier counties statewide.

Safer than regional peers

Harrison County's 33.78 score outperforms neighboring Hart County (41.13) and significantly beats Henderson County (73.16). The county's advantageous position reflects lower-than-average exposure to earthquakes, floods, and severe weather.

Watch for tornadoes and earthquakes

Tornado risk reaches 63.33 in Harrison County, the highest hazard among the five tracked—meaningful but not extreme. Earthquake risk follows at 56.14, reflecting the county's location near mid-continent seismic zones.

Cover your basics with appropriate insurance

Despite a low overall risk profile, Harrison County residents should maintain homeowners insurance that covers tornado damage and consider earthquake coverage if living near fault lines. Standard policies often exclude both perils, leaving gaps in protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harrison County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Temperatures and High Annual Rain

Harrison County's 54.8°F annual average temperature is typical for the U.S. interior. However, its 47.7 inches of annual precipitation is well above the national median, ensuring a lush landscape.

Slightly Drier and Cooler Than Average

Harrison is cooler than the state average of 56.2°F and drier than the state average of 50.6 inches. It sits in a transitional zone where it misses some of the heavier southern rains.

Cold Winters Compared to the South

With a January average of 32.0°F, Harrison is colder in mid-winter than Green County. It also faces 29 extreme heat days, placing it in the middle of the pack for temperature extremes in Kentucky.

Chilly Januaries and Warm Julys

The county experiences a July average of 76.0°F with nearly a month's worth of days over 90°F. January is the coldest month, averaging exactly 32.0°F, which creates frequent freeze-thaw cycles during the winter.

Year-Round Climate Control is Key

A reliable HVAC system is necessary to navigate both the freezing 32°F January nights and the 29 days of summer heat. Residents should also prepare for a mix of winter precipitation given the freezing average temperature in January.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harrison County

via SoilByCounty

A High-Scoring Soil Foundation

Harrison County earns a soil score of 66.4, significantly outperforming the Kentucky state average of 56.2. Its average pH of 6.22 is more alkaline than the state average of 5.80 and sits very close to the national neutral ideal of 6.5.

Silt-Driven Soil Texture

The soil contains 58.6% silt and 24.5% clay, resulting in a fine-textured mix that holds nutrients well. With only 16.9% sand, this composition offers excellent workability but requires monitoring to prevent surface crusting.

Superior Water Retention Power

At 2.60%, the organic matter content exceeds the national average of 2.0%, though it remains below the state average. The available water capacity of 0.194 in/in is higher than the state mean, giving crops an edge during dry spells.

Moisture-Rich Growing Conditions

While specific drainage and hydrologic data are limited for this area, the heavy silt concentration suggests high water retention. Growers should plan for soils that stay cool and moist longer into the spring planting season.

Thriving in Zone 6b

The local hardiness zone 6b is perfect for growing robust root vegetables and hardy fruit trees like apples. With high water capacity and balanced pH, Harrison County offers one of the best gardening environments in the Bluegrass State.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harrison County

via LawnByCounty

Harrison County's High Lawn Success Score

Harrison County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 75.0, making it significantly easier to maintain a yard here than the national median of 50.0. This score also outperforms the Kentucky state average of 66.3. Homeowners in this Hardiness Zone 6b region enjoy some of the most favorable growing conditions in the Commonwealth.

Optimal Rainfall and Growing Days

With 47.7 inches of annual precipitation, the county sits perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for healthy turf. The area experiences 29 extreme heat days per year, which is just below the state average of 30 days. These factors, combined with 3,758 growing degree days, create a steady but manageable mowing schedule.

Balanced Soil for Healthy Roots

The local soil pH of 6.22 falls right within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for nutrient uptake in grass. A clay content of 24.5% helps retain moisture during dry spells, while the 16.9% sand component provides necessary aeration. Most lawns will thrive here with standard fertilization and minimal pH adjustments.

Brief Dry Spells and Resilience

Harrison County faced only 4 weeks of drought over the past year, keeping it more resilient than many of its western neighbors. Currently, 0.0% of the area is under abnormally dry conditions. To maintain this health, residents should water deeply twice a week during the peak of summer.

Best Grasses for Zone 6b

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are the top choices for this climate and soil profile. Aim to finish your spring seeding after the last frost on April 18 or plan for fall renovation before the first frost on October 23. These cool-season grasses will appreciate the county's relatively mild July temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harrison County's county score?
Harrison County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 60.5 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 Harrison County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Harrison County ranks #54 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 Harrison County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Harrison County is $1,282, with an effective tax rate of 0.68%. This earns Harrison County a tax score of 65.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harrison County?
The median household income in Harrison County, Kentucky is $63,205 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harrison County earns an income score of 49/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harrison County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Harrison County scores 60.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #54 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Harrison 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 Harrison 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.