countyscore
51.1
County Score
Property Tax 75.4Weather & Climate 71.7Cost of Living 71.6

County Report Card

About Laurel County, Kentucky

Just Above the Median

Laurel County earns a composite score of 51.1, keeping it slightly ahead of the national median of 50.0. Its ranking is primarily supported by low taxes and an affordable housing market.

Trailing the Kentucky Average

With a score of 51.1, the county falls behind the Kentucky state average of 58.6. Despite its affordability, lower scores in education and safety prevent it from reaching the top of the state rankings.

Low Taxes and Affordable Rents

Taxpayers thrive here with a tax score of 75.4 and an effective rate of 0.589%. Housing is also very accessible, with a cost score of 71.6 and a median home value of $143,400.

Education and Safety Gaps

The school score of 20.1 and safety score of 49.9 highlight areas where the county could invest more in public services. Risk management also lags, with a risk score of 28.3 suggesting vulnerability to natural events.

Great for Childless Households

Laurel County is a strong fit for individuals or couples without children who want to maximize their take-home pay. The combination of low taxes and cheap housing makes it a solid choice for financial flexibility.

Score breakdown

Tax75.4Cost71.6Safety49.9Health37.3Schools20.1Income30.4Risk28.3Water69Weather71.7
🏛75.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠71.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼30.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡49.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤37.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓20.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡28.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧69
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤71.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.2
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

Knox County
Kentucky
56.5
Rockcastle County
Kentucky
72.7
Whitley County
Kentucky
64.4
Clay County
Kentucky
56.3
Jackson County
Kentucky
62.7
Pulaski County
Kentucky
57.1
McCreary County
Kentucky
69.1
Owsley County
Kentucky
68.8

Deep Dives

Laurel County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Laurel County

via TaxByCounty

Laurel offers low national tax rates

Laurel County's 0.589% effective rate is among the lowest profiled and stands well below the national median of 0.85%, giving homeowners a clear tax advantage. The median property tax of $845 is just 31% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting both modest home values and a notably low rate.

Well below Kentucky's average rate

Laurel's 0.589% rate is the lowest among the eight counties examined and substantially undercuts Kentucky's state average of 0.719%. The median tax of $845 falls below the state median of $1,093, driven by both lower property values and Laurel's exceptionally favorable effective rate.

Southern Kentucky's tax leader

Laurel's 0.589% rate edges out Johnson County (0.645%) to rank as the lowest in this sample and beats all eastern and central Kentucky comparables. This southeastern Kentucky county delivers the most tax-efficient property ownership among the eight profiled.

What $143,400 home costs yearly

A median Laurel County homeowner pays approximately $845 per year in property taxes on a typical $143,400 home. With a mortgage, that climbs to $1,077; without one, it falls to $566.

Appeals protect your tax advantage

Laurel County's already-low tax burden makes property ownership exceptionally affordable, but assessments can still be challenged if overvalued. Protecting your advantage through periodic assessment reviews ensures you keep the most competitive rate in the region.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Laurel County

via CostByCounty

Laurel close to state and national norms

Laurel County renters spend 16.6% of income on rent, slightly above Kentucky's 17.0% state average but well below the national 30% affordability threshold. With a median household income of $56,999 and $789 median rent, the county offers accessible housing for working households.

Middle-ground affordability in Kentucky

Laurel's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio sits near Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, placing it in the moderate tier of the state's housing affordability landscape. The county represents neither exceptional value nor unusual stress for renters.

Solid eastern Kentucky middle ground

Laurel County's $789 median rent and $56,999 median income position it between more distressed eastern counties and stronger central Kentucky markets. The $143,400 median home value reflects a stable, if modest, local real estate market.

Balanced housing and income

Renters allocate 16.6% of their $56,999 income to $789 monthly rent, leaving a solid margin for other necessities and emergency savings. Homeowners spend $647 monthly (13.6% of income) on median homes worth $143,400, making homeownership particularly attractive for those with financing access.

Reliable option for southeastern relocators

Laurel County delivers straightforward affordability without the economic challenges of more distressed neighbors or the premium pricing of stronger markets. If you're relocating to southeastern Kentucky, Laurel's near-average rent ratio and moderate home values offer a reliable, stable housing foundation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Laurel County

via IncomeByCounty

Laurel earns close to national median income

Laurel County's median household income of $56,999 is just 24% below the national median of $74,755, reflecting stable middle-class earnings. While below the national average, Laurel's income suggests a functional local economy relative to many rural Kentucky counties.

Slightly above Kentucky's average income

Laurel's $56,999 median income exceeds the state average of $55,909 by just 2%, placing it near the middle of Kentucky's income distribution. Per capita income of $27,944 is slightly below the state average, suggesting income concentration in larger households.

Mid-range performer among regional peers

Laurel's $56,999 income positions it above Johnson ($43,014), Knox ($33,153), and Knott ($37,736) counties but below Jessamine ($74,886) and Kenton ($79,421). This reflects Laurel's status as a regional economic hub in southeastern Kentucky.

Housing affordability remains within healthy range

Laurel's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% means households dedicate reasonable housing budget shares, well below affordability crisis thresholds. With a median home value of $143,400, homeownership remains accessible for families earning at or near the county median.

Build wealth through consistent saving habits

Laurel County residents have modest but meaningful room to invest beyond basic necessities. Starting with automatic transfers to a dedicated savings account and exploring employer retirement benefits creates compound growth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Laurel County

via CrimeByCounty

Laurel County Safety and National Metrics

Laurel County is safer than the average U.S. county, with a safety score of 98.2. Its total crime rate of 1129.1 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. Four agencies work across the county to maintain this level of protection.

Laurel County Compared to Kentucky Averages

The county's safety score of 98.2 is slightly below the Kentucky average of 98.8. Its total crime rate of 1129.1 is also higher than the state average of 786.2. While generally safe, residents see more reported crime than people in other parts of Kentucky.

Laurel County and Neighboring Trends

Laurel County’s crime rate of 1129.1 per 100K is comparable to nearby Knox County’s 1052.7. Both counties experience higher crime rates than the state average but remain much safer than the national landscape. These regional numbers highlight a shared safety profile in this part of the state.

Analyzing Property vs Violent Crime

Violent crime in Laurel is quite low at 62.5 per 100K, which is even better than the state average of 78.1. However, property crime is more frequent at 1066.6 per 100K. Most local law enforcement efforts focus on preventing theft and burglary.

Strengthening Your Home's Defenses

Because property crime accounts for the vast majority of local incidents, home security is a wise investment. Installing cameras and ensuring all entry points are well-lit can deter potential intruders. Taking personal responsibility for home safety keeps Laurel County a better place to live.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Laurel County

via HealthByCounty

Laurel County's health sits near national norms

Laurel's 72.5-year life expectancy falls 1.3 years short of the U.S. average, and 24% report poor or fair health versus the national 21%. The county shows middling health outcomes compared to the nation.

Nearly aligned with Kentucky's average

Laurel's 72.5-year life expectancy tracks close to Kentucky's 72.2-year average, and its 24% poor/fair health rate sits just below the state's 25%. The county represents Kentucky's middle tier of health performance.

Modest health outcomes for the region

Laurel's 72.5-year life expectancy places it between Larue (72.7 years) and Lawrence (70.5 years) but well behind Kenton (76.3 years). With 38 primary care providers per 100K, Laurel has moderate but insufficient access.

Average uninsured rate, limited providers

Laurel's 7.2% uninsured rate aligns with the state average, yet only 38 primary care providers per 100K means gaps in healthcare delivery. Mental health access is similarly constrained at 103 providers per 100K.

Strengthen your family's coverage

If uninsured, kynect.ky.gov or 1-855-4-KYNECT can help you find affordable plans in minutes. Once covered, connect with a primary care provider to build a relationship for ongoing health management.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Laurel County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Major Educational Network in Laurel County

Laurel County manages a significant school infrastructure with 20 public schools serving 9,324 students. The system is built around 12 elementary schools, two middle schools, and six high schools. This extensive layout ensures that students across the county have local access to primary and secondary campuses.

Focusing on Growth and Future Success

Laurel County currently sees an 84.0% graduation rate and a school score of 48.7. The county operates with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,246, which is lower than the state and national averages. Local districts are actively working to bridge these gaps and improve outcomes for their 9,300+ students.

Two Districts Serving Laurel Students

The Laurel County district is the dominant provider, managing 19 schools and 8,801 students, while East Bernstadt Independent operates one school with 523 students. Charter schools do not currently operate here, meaning all students are served by traditional public institutions. This structure provides a mix of a large county system and a focused independent option.

Large Campuses in a Town-Rural Mix

Laurel County features several large campuses, including North Laurel High with 1,300 students and South Laurel High with 1,108. The average school size is 491, with facilities split between 11 town and nine rural locales. This mix offers students the resources of a large school while maintaining a connection to the local community.

Explore Your Options in Laurel County

With a wide variety of schools and districts, Laurel County offers diverse options for families looking to buy a home. Whether you prefer the large-scale opportunities of the Laurel County district or the smaller feel of East Bernstadt Independent, there is a place for you. Discover the local neighborhoods and find a home that fits your educational priorities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Laurel County

via RiskByCounty

Laurel faces above-average U.S. risk

Laurel County's composite risk score of 71.66 exceeds the national average, with a "Relatively Low" rating. This mountain county experiences moderate-to-high natural hazard exposure across multiple categories.

Among Kentucky's highest-risk counties

Laurel's score of 71.66 substantially exceeds Kentucky's 44.21 state average, ranking it near the top statewide. Its mountainous terrain and forest coverage drive vulnerability across multiple hazards.

Wildfire and tornado risk dominate region

Laurel County's wildfire risk of 89.50 is the highest among neighboring Rockcastle and Knox counties. Its tornado risk of 83.52 also ranks among the region's greatest threats.

Wildfires, tornadoes, and earthquakes

Wildfire risk at 89.50 and tornado risk at 83.52 are Laurel's critical hazards, followed by earthquake risk at 77.26. Flood risk at 64.95 adds a fourth significant threat across the county.

Comprehensive disaster insurance critical

Wildfire preparedness is essential—create defensible space and upgrade to fire-resistant roofing and siding materials. Combine this with robust flood and earthquake coverage, plus a documented homeowners policy with sufficient wind protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Laurel County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer than the national median

Laurel County's 56.9°F average temperature is warmer than the national median of 53.8°F. The humid subtropical climate here brings a substantial 51.9 inches of rain annually.

Warmer and wetter than state norms

The county is 0.7 degrees warmer than the Kentucky state average of 56.2°F. It also exceeds the state precipitation average by over an inch, totaling 51.9 inches per year.

Matching heat with higher rainfall

Laurel's 21 extreme heat days match neighbor Lawrence County but far exceed Letcher's 15. Its 51.9 inches of rain is notably higher than Lawrence's 46.6 inches.

Hot July days and snowy winters

July averages peak at 76.3°F while winters drop to 38.4°F on average. Residents experience about 5.7 inches of snow and 21 days above 90°F annually.

Prepare for heat and heavy rain

Efficient cooling is essential for those 21 extreme heat days. Invest in rain-ready gear and maintain proper drainage to handle the heavy 51.9 inches of annual precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Laurel County

via SoilByCounty

Soil Identity of the Plateau

While specific taxonomic data for Laurel County is currently unlisted, the regional pH often trends toward the Kentucky average of 5.80. This is considerably more acidic than the national median of 6.5, which shapes the local plant communities. These chemical traits are fundamental to the identity of the Cumberland Plateau's soil.

Textural Balance and Drainage

Composition data for sand, silt, and clay is currently unavailable for this county record. These proportions are what determine how well the soil holds its shape and allows for water infiltration. Monitoring the physical feel of the soil can help Laurel County residents better understand their land's needs.

Strong Regional Fertility Data

Laurel County shares in Kentucky's robust 3.55% average organic matter content, which stands well above the national average of 2.0%. The state’s 0.186 in/in water capacity average indicates that local soils are well-suited for resilient plant growth. This creates a fertile environment for both small gardens and large agricultural operations.

Managing Water on the Land

Specific hydrologic groups and drainage classes for this area are not currently found in the central dataset. Effective water management is especially important in the plateau region to ensure that heavy rains don't cause erosion or waterlogging. Checking local drainage patterns is a smart first step for any new land use.

Gardening Success in Zone 7a

As part of Hardiness Zone 7a, Laurel County offers a long growing season that is ideal for a variety of crops. From hardy perennials to summer vegetables, the local climate supports a diverse and productive garden. It is an excellent place for residents to begin exploring the possibilities of their own backyard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Laurel County

via LawnByCounty

Competitive Lawn Scores in Laurel County

Laurel County scores a 68.2 for lawn difficulty, which is slightly better than the Kentucky state average of 66.3. The Hardiness Zone 7a classification allows for a wide variety of grass types and landscaping options for homeowners.

Abundant Rainfall for Lush Turf

Lawns here receive 51.9 inches of rain annually, which is slightly over the ideal 50-inch threshold. With 21 extreme heat days and 4,064 growing degree days, the environment is primed for rapid grass expansion throughout the summer.

Test for Optimal pH Balance

Precise soil data is not available for Laurel County at this time. To ensure success, test your soil to see if it hits the ideal 6.0-7.0 pH range before applying any seasonal fertilizers or lime.

Consistent Hydration with Low Risk

The county had 4 weeks of drought in the past year, but currently, 0.0% of the area is under dry stress. Consistent rainfall generally reduces the need for heavy irrigation compared to the national average of 50.0.

Maximize Your 7a Growing Season

April 15th marks the typical end of spring frosts, making it the perfect time to start your lawn care routine. Tall fescue is highly recommended for this climate to bridge the gap between summer heat and winter cold.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Laurel County's county score?
Laurel County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 51.1 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 Laurel County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Laurel County ranks #97 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 Laurel County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Laurel County is $845, with an effective tax rate of 0.59%. This earns Laurel County a tax score of 75.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Laurel County?
The median household income in Laurel County, Kentucky is $56,999 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Laurel County earns an income score of 30.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Laurel County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Laurel County scores 51.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #97 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Laurel 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 Laurel 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.