countyscore
67.8
County Score
Safety 90.3Cost of Living 89.1Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Knott County, Kentucky

Outperforming the National Average

Knott County achieves a robust composite score of 67.8, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This high ranking stems from extreme affordability and a very high level of safety.

Top-Tier in the State

With a score of 67.8, Knott County is one of the higher-rated counties in Kentucky, beating the state average of 58.6. It offers a unique combination of security and low expenses that is hard to find elsewhere.

Exceptional Safety and Value

A safety score of 90.3 and a cost score of 89.1 define this county as a secure haven for the budget-conscious. Homes are remarkably affordable, with a median value of just $74,600.

Persistent Economic Headwinds

The income score is among the lowest in the nation at 1.9, with a median household income of $37,736. Health services also face hurdles, as the health score of 25.3 indicates limited local medical resources.

Best for Budget Conscious Retirees

Knott County is a fantastic option for retirees or those with fixed incomes who prioritize personal safety and low property taxes. It offers a peaceful, low-cost life in a community where your dollar goes further.

Score breakdown

Tax61.1Cost89.1Safety90.3Health25.3Schools81.3Income1.9Risk47.9Water86Weather72.5
🏛61.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠89.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼1.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡90.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤25.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓81.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡47.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤72.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱
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

Floyd County
Kentucky
61.3
Letcher County
Kentucky
62.3
Perry County
Kentucky
60.6
Breathitt County
Kentucky
59.8
Magoffin County
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Pike County
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Wise County
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Leslie County
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Deep Dives

Knott County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Knott County

via TaxByCounty

Knott County far below national taxes

Knott's effective rate of 0.719% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.85%, and its median property tax of $536 is less than one-fifth the national median of $2,690. This rural eastern Kentucky county offers exceptional property tax affordability by national standards.

Right at Kentucky's state average

Knott County's 0.719% effective rate matches Kentucky's state average exactly, placing it in the middle of the state's tax landscape. However, the median tax of $536 trails the state median of $1,093, reflecting the county's notably lower property values rather than a lower rate.

Mid-range for eastern Kentucky

Knott's 0.719% rate sits between Lawrence County (0.678%) and Knox County (0.735%), positioning it squarely in the middle of eastern Kentucky's tax tier. Among the eight counties profiled, only Johnson County offers a meaningfully lower rate.

What $74,600 home costs annually

A median Knott County homeowner pays roughly $536 per year in property taxes on a typical $74,600 home. With a mortgage, the figure rises to $1,155; without one, it drops to $356.

Assessment appeals work in rural counties too

Even modest property values in Knott County can be overassessed, and rural homeowners should not overlook appeal opportunities. A successful challenge to an inflated assessment could reduce your already-low annual bill by a meaningful percentage.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Knott County

via CostByCounty

Knott struggles most for affordability

Knott County renters spend 23.3% of income on rent—the highest ratio in this analysis and well above Kentucky's 17.0% state average. With a median household income of just $37,736, half the national median, residents face the steepest housing-cost burden despite $731 monthly rents.

Least affordable in eastern Kentucky

Knott County's 23.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it among the state's most stressed counties. The combination of low incomes and above-average rents creates genuine affordability hardship for renters.

Low wages, high rent pressure

Knott County's $731 median rent is typical for eastern Kentucky, but the $37,736 median household income is among the region's lowest. This mismatch places Knott renters under greater financial stress than similar-rent counties with stronger earning power.

Rental burden dominates household budgets

Knott County renters devote 23.3% of their $37,736 annual income to $731 monthly rent, a significantly higher burden than peers elsewhere. Homeowners fare somewhat better at 17.0% of income ($425/month), but only on median homes worth $74,600—reflecting depressed property values tied to limited local economic opportunity.

Relocate only with strong income

Knott County offers genuine bargains for remote workers and retirees with external income sources, but traditional job seekers should explore stronger labor markets. Compare your current rent burden to 23.3%—if you're below that, moving here without secure employment could worsen your financial position.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Knott County

via IncomeByCounty

Knott struggles far below national baseline

Knott County's median household income of $37,736 falls nearly $37,000 short of the national median of $74,755—a deficit of 50%. This places Knott among America's lowest-income counties and reflects the severe economic distress of eastern Kentucky's coal-dependent communities.

Among Kentucky's most economically challenged counties

Knott's $37,736 median income ranks in Kentucky's bottom tier, 33% below the state average of $55,909. Per capita income of $21,353 trails the state by 28%, indicating very limited individual earning power throughout the county.

Economic hardship alongside Knox and Lawrence

Knott County's income is slightly above Knox ($33,153) but comparable to Lawrence ($45,584) and Johnson ($43,014) counties. This cluster of distressed counties reflects a regional economic crisis tied to coal industry collapse and limited alternative employment.

Housing costs consume unsustainable income share

A rent-to-income ratio of 23.3% means Knott households spend nearly 1/4 of earnings on housing—well above the 30% affordability crisis threshold. With a median home value of only $74,600, even modest housing costs strain household budgets severely.

Focus on financial stability first

Knott County residents facing income constraints should prioritize debt reduction and basic emergency savings before investing. Local nonprofits and credit counseling services can help households create realistic budgets and identify income-boosting opportunities.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Knott County

via CrimeByCounty

Knott County Among the Safest Nationally

Knott County holds an incredible safety score of 99.7, placing it at the top of national rankings. Its total crime rate of 189.0 per 100K is a tiny fraction of the national average of 2,385.5. For those seeking peace of mind, this county offers one of the most secure environments in the U.S.

Leading the Pack in Kentucky Safety

Knott County's safety score of 99.7 comfortably beats the state average of 98.8. With a total crime rate of only 189.0, it is much safer than the Kentucky average of 786.2. These metrics place it among the elite low-crime areas in the state.

Unmatched Safety Compared to Neighbors

The crime rate in Knott County (189.0) is even lower than that of its safe neighbor, Johnson County (247.5). It is also significantly lower than Lawrence County, which sits at 579.3. This region of Kentucky overall presents a very low risk for criminal activity.

Zero Reported Violent Crimes in 2022

Knott County reported a violent crime rate of 0.0 per 100K in 2022, an extraordinary achievement for any community. The entire crime rate of 189.0 is comprised of property crimes. This means residents face virtually no statistical risk of violent incidents compared to the rest of the nation.

Keeping Knott County Secure

While crime is exceptionally low, maintaining vigilant habits helps keep the community safe. Simple measures like locking vehicles and using outdoor lighting effectively deter opportunistic property crime. Your proactive steps ensure Knott County remains a safe haven for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Knott County

via HealthByCounty

Knott County faces a health crisis

At 67.1 years, Knott County's life expectancy is 6.7 years below the U.S. average, and 30.1% report poor or fair health—significantly above the national 21% rate. The county faces one of America's most serious health challenges.

Among Kentucky's worst health outcomes

Knott's 67.1-year life expectancy represents the state's lowest, falling 5.1 years below Kentucky's 72.2-year average. Nearly 30% report poor or fair health, the highest rate in the state and 5 points above the statewide average.

Trapped in a regional health crisis

Knott's 67.1-year life expectancy ranks lowest among neighboring Eastern Kentucky counties, while its 30.1% poor/fair health rate tops regional peers. With only 21 primary care providers per 100K, the county faces critical provider shortages.

Sparse providers, limited insurance options

Knott's 7.2% uninsured rate approximates the state average, but only 21 primary care providers per 100K and 59 mental health providers per 100K mean severe care access gaps. Residents often travel hours for routine medical care.

Help is available—reach out now

Visit kynect.ky.gov or call 1-855-4-KYNECT to explore coverage options; expanded Medicaid may help many residents. Contact your county health department to ask about telehealth and clinic services available locally.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Knott County

via SchoolsByCounty

Personalized Learning in a Rural Setting

Knott County operates a small, focused network of eight public schools serving 2,092 total students. The system includes five elementary schools and two high schools, ensuring that residents have access to localized education. All schools in the county fall under a single district management structure.

Exceptional Graduation Rates and Local Investment

Knott County achieves a remarkable 97.0% graduation rate, far exceeding the national benchmark of 87%. The county invests $8,123 per pupil, which is more than $1,200 higher than the state average. This significant investment pays off, as the county's school score of 59.6 is well above the Kentucky average of 55.3.

Unity in the Knott County School District

The Knott County school district is the sole provider for the area, managing all 2,092 students across its seven primary and secondary locations. There are no charter schools in the county, allowing the district to focus its resources on traditional public education. This unified approach provides a consistent experience for all students in the community.

The Essence of Rural Education

Every school in Knott County is classified as rural, offering a quiet and focused environment for learning. With an average school size of 299 students, the county provides an intimate setting where teachers and students can form strong bonds. Knott County Central High is the largest school, yet it still maintains a modest enrollment of 552 students.

Find Peace and Academic Excellence

Families looking for a rural lifestyle without sacrificing academic quality will find Knott County highly appealing. With graduation rates near the top of the state and high per-pupil spending, this is a community that values its youth. Explore local real estate to find a home near these high-performing, close-knit rural schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Knott County

via RiskByCounty

Knott sits near national average risk

Knott County's composite risk score of 52.10 is slightly above the national average, with a "Relatively Low" rating. Natural disaster exposure is moderate but manageable for this Appalachian county.

Below average for Kentucky counties

Knott's score of 52.10 exceeds Kentucky's state average of 44.21, placing it in the higher-risk tier statewide. However, it ranks lower than several neighboring eastern Kentucky counties.

Wildfire risk exceeds regional peers

Knott County's wildfire risk of 74.11 is notably higher than neighboring Letcher and Harlan counties. Its flood risk of 73.12 similarly exceeds most adjacent counties in the region.

Wildfires and flooding top concerns

Wildfire risk at 74.11 and flood risk at 73.12 are Knott County's primary hazards, both linked to forested terrain and seasonal precipitation. Tornado risk at 19.50 remains relatively low by comparison.

Prepare for fire and water damage

Wildfire risk means clearing brush from your property and using fire-resistant materials for vulnerable structures. Flood insurance is also crucial—pair it with comprehensive homeowners coverage for full protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Knott County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Profiles of Knott County

The taxonomic identity of Knott County soils is currently being updated, though they likely mirror the state’s 5.80 pH average. This is more acidic than the national median of 6.5, a common trait in Kentucky’s coal country. These conditions favor acid-loving plants and require careful management for traditional row crops.

Managing Soil Structure and Mix

Specific data on sand, silt, and clay percentages is currently unavailable for this area. However, the physical mix of these particles determines how well the soil supports heavy equipment and plant roots alike. Understanding local texture is vital for maintaining soil stability on the county's famous rolling hills.

Potential for High Organic Growth

Knott County shares Kentucky’s impressive 3.55% state average for organic matter, which beats the national average of 2.0% by a wide margin. The state's 0.186 in/in water capacity benchmark suggests the soil is well-equipped to sustain life between rains. This natural richness provides a strong start for any local reforestation or gardening project.

Hydrology and Runoff Management

Current datasets do not specify a dominant drainage class or hydrologic group for this county tract. In this rugged terrain, managing water flow is essential to prevent soil loss and ensure healthy plant growth. Local residents are encouraged to monitor their land’s natural drainage patterns after heavy storms.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7a

Knott County is located in Hardiness Zone 7a, providing a long and productive growing season for local residents. This zone is ideal for summer favorites like squash, corn, and beans that thrive in the warm Appalachian sun. It is a great environment to build a self-sufficient garden or small-scale farm.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Knott County

via LawnByCounty

Standard Kentucky Growth in Knott County

Knott County resides in Hardiness Zone 7a, providing a reliable environment for diverse landscaping. While specific difficulty scores are unavailable, the region generally follows Kentucky's favorable growth trends compared to the national average.

Regional Weather Patterns Drive Growth

While local precipitation and heat data are limited, regional averages suggest a humid subtropical climate that supports vigorous grass growth. Monitoring local weather stations is the best way to time your mowing and fertilization schedules.

Professional Testing Required

Limited soil data for the county means professional testing is essential before making major landscaping investments. Most regional soils require balancing to reach the ideal pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal turf health.

Superior Resilience to Dry Spells

The county is exceptionally resilient, with only 1 week of drought recorded in the past year. Current conditions show 0.0% dryness, making this a stable environment for maintaining a green lawn with very little supplemental watering.

Hardy Grasses for Zone 7a

Zone 7a is perfect for transition zone grasses like tall fescue that tolerate both winter cold and summer humidity. Start your growing season as the soil warms in April to establish deep roots before any summer heat hits.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Knott County's county score?
Knott County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 67.8 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 Knott County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Knott County ranks #15 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 Knott County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Knott County is $536, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Knott County a tax score of 61.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Knott County?
The median household income in Knott County, Kentucky is $37,736 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Knott County earns an income score of 1.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Knott County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Knott County scores 67.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #15 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Knott 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 Knott 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.