countyscore
61.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 87.6Water Quality 86Safety 80.1

County Report Card

About Larue County, Kentucky

Strong National Standing

Larue County secures a composite score of 61.6, well above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high quality of life driven by safety and environmental stability.

Beating the Kentucky Average

The county outpaces the Kentucky state average of 58.6, proving itself as a competitive place to live. It offers a more resilient profile than many of its neighbors, particularly regarding natural disaster risks.

Safe and Low Risk

Larue County excels in resilience with a risk score of 87.6 and a safety score of 80.1. Residents also enjoy a favorable tax environment with an effective rate of just 0.630%.

Healthcare Access Needs Growth

The health score of 27.7 remains a primary concern for the area, indicating limited access to medical facilities. While schools and safety are strong, residents may need to travel for specialized health services.

Built for Long-Term Security

This county is ideal for those seeking a safe, stable environment with low taxes and minimal environmental risk. It is a top choice for families looking for a reliable and secure rural lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax70.9Cost48.5Safety80.1Health27.7Schools65.8Income61.1Risk87.6Water86Weather69.7
🏛70.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠48.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼61.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡80.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤27.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓65.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡87.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤69.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱73.6
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

Green County
Kentucky
68.3
Marion County
Kentucky
62.5
Nelson County
Kentucky
54.6
Taylor County
Kentucky
60
Hart County
Kentucky
63.6
Hardin County
Kentucky
48.1
Bullitt County
Kentucky
49.5
Washington County
Kentucky
65.8

Deep Dives

Larue County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Larue County

via TaxByCounty

Larue offers competitive national tax rates

Larue County's effective rate of 0.630% falls notably below the national median of 0.85%, placing homeowners in a favorable position. The median property tax of $1,118 is significantly lower than the national median of $2,690, even as median home values ($177,500) approach national levels.

Below Kentucky's state average

Larue's 0.630% rate is the second-lowest among the eight counties profiled and sits comfortably below Kentucky's state average of 0.719%. The median tax of $1,118 slightly exceeds the state median of $1,093, reflecting Larue's slightly higher home values offset by its favorable rate.

Lowest rate in central Kentucky

Larue's 0.630% effective rate is the lowest in the central Kentucky cluster, well below Jessamine County (0.771%) and significantly lower than Kenton County's 1.004%. This makes Larue an especially attractive option for property owners seeking tax efficiency in the Louisville region.

What $177,500 home costs yearly

A median Larue County homeowner pays roughly $1,118 per year in property taxes on a typical $177,500 home. With a mortgage, that climbs to $1,229; without one, it drops to $946.

Favorable rates don't prevent overassessment

Even in low-tax Larue County, properties sometimes receive inflated assessments that don't reflect actual market value. Filing an appeal is free and could provide additional savings atop the county's already-competitive rate.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Larue County

via CostByCounty

Larue excels in regional affordability

Larue County renters spend just 14.4% of income on rent, the lowest ratio in this analysis and well below Kentucky's 17.0% state average. With a median household income of $67,770 and moderate $816 monthly rents, the county delivers genuine housing affordability for working families.

Top-tier Kentucky affordability

Larue County's 14.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Kentucky's best, outperforming the state average by 2.6 percentage points. The county's balance of reasonable rents and solid local incomes creates one of the state's most favorable housing markets.

Sweet spot for central Kentucky

Larue County's $816 median rent and $67,770 median income position it as a more affordable alternative to nearby Jessamine County while remaining within reasonable commuting distance of Louisville. The median home value of $177,500 reflects a stable, attractive market.

Room to breathe in the budget

Renters allocate just 14.4% of their $67,770 income to $816 monthly rent, leaving ample resources for savings and other expenses. Homeowners spend $918 monthly (16.2% of income) on median homes valued at $177,500, making both housing pathways financially sustainable.

Underrated gem for relocators

Larue County offers the rare combination of low rent-to-income ratios and genuine economic viability, ideal for workers seeking Louisville proximity without urban costs. If affordability is your priority, compare Larue's 14.4% ratio to your current burden—you might discover Kentucky's best-kept housing secret.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Larue County

via IncomeByCounty

Larue approaches national income parity

Larue County's median household income of $67,770 sits 9% below the national median of $74,755, representing solid middle-class earnings. While below the national average, Larue's income positioning is notably stronger than most Kentucky counties.

Above-average earner within Kentucky

Larue's $67,770 median income exceeds the Kentucky state average of $55,909 by 21%, placing the county in the upper half statewide. Per capita income of $30,533 also surpasses the state average by 3%, showing relatively balanced earning distribution.

Strong performer in central Kentucky region

Larue's $67,770 income positions it competitively against Jessamine ($74,886) and Laurel ($56,999) counties. The county's location in central Kentucky and proximity to Elizabethtown provide access to diverse employment opportunities.

Housing costs remain reasonable and sustainable

Larue's rent-to-income ratio of 14.4% is the second-lowest among the eight counties, indicating healthy housing affordability. With a median home value of $177,500, homeownership is accessible and sustainable for families at the median income.

Position yourself for steady wealth accumulation

Larue County's above-average income provides a platform for regular investing and long-term wealth building. Consider contributing to retirement accounts, establishing automatic savings transfers, and exploring home equity as a wealth-building tool.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Larue County

via CrimeByCounty

Larue County: Highly Safe by National Standards

Larue County earns a high safety score of 99.3, indicating a very secure environment. The total crime rate of 469.7 per 100K is far below the national average of 2,385.5. Residents benefit from a quiet community with minimal criminal disruption.

Larue County Outpaces State Safety Average

With a safety score of 99.3, Larue County is safer than the Kentucky average of 98.8. Its total crime rate of 469.7 is also significantly lower than the state average of 786.2. It ranks as one of the more peaceful counties in the Commonwealth.

Comparing Larue to Regional Peers

Larue County’s crime rate of 469.7 is lower than Lawrence County’s rate of 579.3. It sits in a regional pocket of high safety, offering much lower crime than more urbanized Kentucky counties. This makes it an attractive area for those prioritizing public safety.

Low Rates of Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime in Larue County occurs at a rate of 93.9 per 100K, while property crime is 375.8. Both categories are well below national averages, specifically property crime which is less than a fifth of the national rate. Residents enjoy a low-risk environment for both their person and property.

Simple Steps for a Safer Home

Even with low crime rates, basic home security like motion-sensor lights can further protect your property. Larue County's high safety is maintained through the collective vigilance of its residents. Keeping your home secure helps preserve this peaceful community standard.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Larue County

via HealthByCounty

Larue County lags the national health picture

Larue's 72.7-year life expectancy runs 1.1 years below the U.S. average, and 27.4% report poor or fair health versus the national 21%. The county faces mounting health challenges despite modest life expectancy figures.

Slightly above Kentucky's average life span

Larue's 72.7-year life expectancy edges Kentucky's 72.2-year average by 0.5 years—a thin margin for a county struggling with other health metrics. Its 27.4% poor/fair health rate exceeds the state average of 25%.

Mixed performance among regional peers

Larue's 72.7-year life expectancy sits between Laurel County (72.5 years) and Jessamine County (75.7 years), but its 27.4% poor/fair health rate ranks among the region's worst. With only 13 primary care providers per 100K, Larue faces the state's most severe provider shortage.

Highest uninsured rate, fewest doctors

Larue's 9.1% uninsured rate is the highest among these eight counties, and only 13 primary care providers per 100K represents Kentucky's most acute provider shortage. This combination creates a perfect storm for healthcare access.

Take action on coverage today

Visit kynect.ky.gov or call 1-855-4-KYNECT immediately to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or other coverage—Larue's uninsured rate shows many neighbors haven't yet enrolled. Ask your county health department about free clinics and emergency care options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Larue County

via SchoolsByCounty

Efficient Education in Larue County

Larue County supports its 2,393 students through a compact system of six public schools. The landscape features two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, alongside two specialized centers. This centralized infrastructure is managed by a single school district for the entire county.

Exceptional Graduation Rates in Larue

Larue County schools achieve a 97.0% graduation rate, placing them among the top performers in the state and well above the 87% national average. The county spends $6,871 per pupil, which is nearly identical to the Kentucky state average. A school score of 56.9 further confirms that the county is outperforming state benchmarks for quality.

A Unified District for Local Students

The LaRue County school district manages 100% of the public schools and students in the area. There are no charter schools currently operating, ensuring that all local resources are directed into the unified public system. This structure creates a cohesive educational path from preschool through high school graduation.

Rural Charm with Focused Learning

With five of its six schools located in rural areas, Larue County offers a peaceful, focused educational setting. The average school size is 399 students, with LaRue County High School being the largest at 744 students. Small facilities like the Preschool on College Street ensure that even the youngest students receive dedicated attention.

Quality Education in a Rural Setting

Larue County’s incredible 97% graduation rate makes it a premier destination for families who prioritize academic outcomes. The community's rural character and strong school performance offer a high quality of life for residents. Consider a home in this high-achieving district to give your children a head start in a supportive environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Larue County

via RiskByCounty

Larue ranks among America's safest

Larue County's composite risk score of 12.44 is exceptionally low, well below the national average, with a "Very Low" rating. Few counties in the nation enjoy comparable protection from natural disasters.

Kentucky's lowest-risk county

Larue's score of 12.44 is the lowest among all Kentucky counties, dramatically below the state average of 44.21. This rural central Kentucky county offers some of the most stable natural disaster conditions statewide.

Safest county in region by far

Larue's 12.44 score outperforms all neighboring counties, including Marion, Hardin, and Nelson counties. It stands as an outlier of safety in central Kentucky.

Tornado risk remains manageable

Tornado risk at 36.26 is Larue's primary hazard, though still low compared to state averages. Earthquake risk (50.80) and flood risk (22.87) are well-controlled secondary concerns.

Standard coverage suffices for peace of mind

Larue County's exceptional safety profile means standard homeowners insurance provides solid baseline protection. Maintain a family storm plan for tornado season and review your policy annually for adequate coverage limits.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Larue County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and temperate Bluegrass climate

Larue County’s annual average temperature of 56.7°F is warmer than the national median. It features a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasonal shifts and moderate summer extremes.

Warmer than the Kentucky average

The county's 56.7°F annual average is higher than the state average of 56.2°F. While precipitation data is unavailable, its temperature profile suggests a slightly warmer environment than the state norm.

Warmer than southern neighbor Hart

Larue County is nearly two degrees warmer on average than Hart County to its south. Despite this, it actually sees fewer extreme heat days, recording 22 days over 90°F compared to Hart's 26.

Predictable heat and cool winters

July averages 76.2°F, but the county only faces 22 days of extreme heat per year. Winters are standard for the region, with a January average of 34.8°F and a winter seasonal average of 37.4°F.

Consistent climate for outdoor planning

The relatively low number of extreme heat days (22) makes Larue County pleasant for outdoor activities. Residents should still prepare for the 34.8°F January average by insulating pipes and checking home heating systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Larue County

via SoilByCounty

Historical Soil of Central Kentucky

Larue County’s soil taxonomy is currently being documented, but the region’s pH usually matches the state average of 5.80. This is lower than the national median of 6.5, indicating a slightly acidic environment common across the state. These levels are a defining characteristic of the land that has supported generations of local farmers.

Silt and Clay for Stability

Specific percentages for sand and silt are unavailable, but the county's soil texture is a major factor in nutrient retention. The right balance prevents fertilizers from leaching away while ensuring roots have access to necessary air. Local growers should focus on maintaining this physical balance through sustainable practices.

High Organic Matter Benchmarks

The organic matter in this region typically tracks with Kentucky’s 3.55% average, which is much higher than the 2.0% national norm. A state-wide water capacity average of 0.186 in/in also suggests that local soils are excellent at holding onto moisture. These factors contribute to the high agricultural productivity seen in Larue County.

Drainage for Diverse Landscapes

Official drainage and hydrologic group data for this specific county record are not currently available. Because Larue County has diverse terrain, individual site tests are the best way to determine how water will move through your soil. Proper drainage is essential for maintaining both crop health and structural integrity.

Planting Potential in Zone 7a

Located in Hardiness Zone 7a, Larue County provides a long, warm growing season perfect for Kentucky favorites like tobacco and corn. Gardeners can also enjoy success with heat-tolerant flowers and late-summer vegetables. This climate provides a great opportunity to get outside and start your own garden project.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Larue County

via LawnByCounty

Larue County Lawns Thrive Easily

Larue County boasts a 73.6 lawn difficulty score, indicating it is significantly easier to grow a lawn here than in most of the U.S. This Zone 7a region benefits from a climate that supports robust turf development year-round.

Strong Growing Season with Moderate Heat

The county experiences 22 extreme heat days and a high 4,085 growing degree days, which fuels fast growth. This long growing season means your lawn stays green longer, though it may require more frequent maintenance.

Investing in Your Soil Health

Local soil specifics like pH and texture are not currently recorded in the dataset. Adding compost or topsoil can help establish a healthy foundation for the deep root systems needed to survive the 22 annual heat days.

Managing Seasonal Dry Spells

Residents experienced 6 weeks of drought over the past year, though conditions are currently clear across the county. Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn helps retain moisture during these more frequent dry periods.

Planting Around Frost Dates

Successful lawns here usually feature heat-tolerant cool-season blends. Aim to finish major seeding projects between the last spring frost on April 16th and the first fall frost on October 25th.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Larue County's county score?
Larue County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 61.6 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 Larue County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Larue County ranks #49 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 Larue County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Larue County is $1,118, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Larue County a tax score of 70.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Larue County?
The median household income in Larue County, Kentucky is $67,770 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Larue County earns an income score of 61.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Larue County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Larue County scores 61.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #49 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Larue 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 Larue 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.