countyscore
59
County Score
Disaster Risk 72.9Property Tax 71.2Safety 66.4

County Report Card

About Livingston County, Kentucky

Consistent Performance on National Metrics

Livingston County maintains a composite score of 59.0, which is higher than the national median of 50.0. This ranking indicates a solid foundation for livability and general well-being.

Aligning with the Kentucky Average

At 59.0, Livingston County sits slightly above the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It offers a lifestyle that is typical for the state while excelling in tax policy and environmental resilience.

Low Taxes and Disaster Resilience

The county features a strong Tax Score of 71.2 due to a low effective rate of 0.628%. A Risk Score of 72.9 also shows that residents are well-protected from natural and environmental hazards.

Infrastructure and Health Bottlenecks

The Water Score of 12.6 is a significant concern that impacts the overall composite ranking. Additionally, the Health Score of 46.8 suggests that community wellness programs could see more investment.

Ideal for the Tax-Savvy Homeowner

Livingston County is a great fit for those looking for moderate income levels and a very low tax burden. While water infrastructure needs attention, the low environmental risk makes it a stable choice for property owners.

Score breakdown

Tax71.2Cost62Safety66.4Health46.8Schools56.8Income38Risk72.9Water12.6Weather62.3
🏛71.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠62
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼38
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡66.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡72.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧12.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨60.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱60.3
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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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

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67.4
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Lyon County
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Deep Dives

Livingston County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Livingston County

via TaxByCounty

Livingston County well below national average

Livingston County's effective tax rate of 0.628% ranks in the bottom 5% of US counties for property tax burden. The median annual tax of $731 is just 27% of the national median of $2,690.

Well below Kentucky's statewide average

Livingston County's 0.628% rate is notably lower than Kentucky's state average of 0.719%, making it one of the most tax-friendly counties in the state. The median bill of $731 is substantially below the state median of $1,093.

Among lowest rates in western Kentucky

Livingston County's 0.628% rate beats all nearby comparables, including Lyon County (0.553%), Logan County (0.624%), and the eastern counties. This positions Livingston as an exceptionally affordable property tax destination.

Median home: $116,300, annual tax $731

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $116,300 pays approximately $731 per year in property taxes. That's roughly $61 monthly—or $1,061 annually including mortgage-related tax assessments.

Your assessment deserves a second look

Even in Kentucky's most tax-friendly counties, individual properties can be overvalued on assessor's books. Comparing your assessed value to recent local market sales and appealing if necessary protects your investment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Livingston County

via CostByCounty

Livingston County rents affordable on local wages

Livingston County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% sits comfortably within national affordability norms, and the county's median household income of $59,713 exceeds most rural Kentucky neighbors by 20%+. At $912 monthly, rent remains manageable for the county's relatively stronger earning households.

Above Kentucky average in both rent and income

Livingston County's 18.3% rent-to-income ratio edges slightly above Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, while its $912 median rent is $141 higher than the state average. However, the county's median household income of $59,713 is notably higher than most Kentucky counties, offsetting the rent premium.

Higher rent, but stronger incomes justify it

Livingston County's $912 median rent is the highest in the regional cluster, but its $59,713 median household income is second only to Lyon County among these eight. The combination delivers reasonable affordability despite higher absolute rent levels.

Renters pay more, but earn more too

Monthly rent averages $912 while homeowner costs are $591, with median home values at $116,300—substantially higher than rural Appalachian neighbors. Livingston's median household income of $59,713 is the second-highest in the region, making the higher housing costs proportionally manageable.

Livingston offers stronger income-to-housing balance

Livingston County combines higher housing costs with meaningfully higher incomes, making it appealing to workers with steady employment or professional roles. If your income expectations align with the county's median of $59,713+, Livingston delivers reasonable affordability and higher home values.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Livingston County

via IncomeByCounty

Livingston County approaches national income levels

Livingston County's median household income of $59,713 reaches 80% of the national median of $74,755, representing a significantly smaller gap than most Kentucky counties. This income profile reflects a more robust local economy and diverse employment opportunities.

Exceeds Kentucky state average income

Livingston County's $59,713 median household income runs 7% above Kentucky's state average of $55,909, positioning it in the state's upper-middle income tier. Economic strength and wage competitiveness give Livingston County an advantage over many rural peers.

Part of emerging northern Kentucky prosperity

Livingston County's $59,713 income significantly exceeds struggling southeastern counties like Lee ($34,182) and Leslie ($40,176), while staying below even stronger northern neighbors Lyon ($64,464) and Logan ($61,535). The county sits in a prosperous regional band reflecting northern Kentucky's economic momentum.

Housing costs remain very manageable

Livingston County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% is healthy, and median home values of $116,300 are well-aligned with the $59,713 median income. Households have substantial flexibility to cover housing plus other essentials with discretionary income remaining.

Livingston County can pursue wealth strategies

Families earning $59,713 should prioritize maximizing employer retirement plans, building college savings accounts, and exploring home equity strategies. Consider working with a financial advisor to develop investment portfolios, evaluate real estate appreciation, and plan for long-term wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Livingston County

via CrimeByCounty

Livingston County is Safer Than Nation

Livingston County's total crime rate of 790.7 per 100K is roughly three times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county a 98.8 safety score.

Typical of Kentucky's Safety Profile

The county's crime rate of 790.7 per 100K is very close to the state average of 786.2. Its safety score of 98.8 is exactly in line with the Kentucky statewide average.

Single Agency Monitors County Activity

A single agency reports Livingston's rate of 790.7 per 100K, which is safer than Logan County but busier than Lyon County. Residents should interpret these single-agency trends with local context.

Property Crimes Predominate Locally

Property crime accounts for 735.0 per 100K, while violent crime is lower at 55.7. Both categories remain significantly below national benchmarks for crime frequency.

Prioritize Home Security Solutions

Because most local reports involve property, reinforcing doors and windows is a smart investment. Consistent home awareness helps keep Livingston County's safety score steady.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Livingston County

via HealthByCounty

Livingston County shows stronger health trajectory

Livingston County residents live to 71.0 years on average, trailing the U.S. average of 78.9 years by about 8 years. Only one in five residents (20.2%) report poor or fair health—among the lowest rates in the county comparison set.

Above Eastern Kentucky average, below state

At 71.0 years, Livingston County's life expectancy runs 1.2 years below Kentucky's state average of 72.2 years but outperforms most Eastern Kentucky peers. The county's 20.2% poor/fair health rate represents one of the region's better health profiles.

Eastern Kentucky's emerging health leader

Livingston County's 71.0-year life expectancy ranks it among the healthiest in its region, with 34 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 68 mental health providers per 100,000. This provider infrastructure supports the county's measurably better health outcomes compared to peers.

Strong coverage rates support health access

Livingston County's 5.7% uninsured rate—well below Kentucky's 7.0% average—means strong insurance penetration across the population. Combined with moderate primary care supply (34 per 100K), most residents have the coverage and access foundation needed for preventive care.

Keep your coverage active and current

Livingston County's above-average insurance coverage directly supports its better health outcomes. Maintain your health coverage at healthcare.gov and continue taking advantage of your county's relatively strong provider network.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Livingston County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Schooling in Livingston County

Livingston County provides four public schools for its 1,073 students, including two elementary, one middle, and one high school. This streamlined system is managed by a single district.

Strong Spending Drives Solid Results

Livingston County's $7,292 per-pupil expenditure is higher than the state average, supporting a 92.0% graduation rate. The county's school score of 55.2 is nearly identical to the state average, showing consistent performance.

The Livingston County School District

All 1,073 students attend schools within the Livingston County district. No charter schools are active in the county, ensuring a stable and traditional public school environment for all families.

Small-Scale Rural Learning

The county’s schools are entirely rural, featuring a low average enrollment of 268 students. South Livingston Elementary is the largest school with 362 students, while North Livingston Elementary offers a very small, personalized setting with just 130 students.

Your Home in Livingston County

If you value small class sizes and a rural atmosphere, Livingston County is an ideal place to look for a home. The district’s strong financial investment in students makes it a great choice for parents.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Livingston County

via RiskByCounty

Livingston County enjoys very low risk

Livingston County's composite risk score of 27.13 is 39% below Kentucky's state average of 44.21, placing it among the state's safest counties. This very low rating reflects minimal exposure to most major natural disaster hazards.

Among Kentucky's safer counties

Livingston County ranks well below the state average with a composite score of 27.13, making it one of Kentucky's lower-risk counties. The county benefits from low wildfire (6.52) and flood (23.35) exposure compared to state norms.

Safest in its region overall

Livingston County (27.13) is the lowest-risk county in its region, even safer than nearby Lyon County (28.88) and significantly safer than Logan County (54.64). The county's low wildfire and flood scores provide distinct advantages over neighboring areas.

Earthquake and tornado need attention

Earthquake risk (82.06) and tornado risk (49.08) are Livingston County's most elevated hazards, though the county's overall risk remains very low. These scores reflect the county's location in a seismic zone and its exposure to severe weather patterns common to the region.

Standard coverage generally sufficient

Livingston County's very low composite risk score means standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection for most residents. Consider adding earthquake coverage given the county's elevated earthquake risk score of 82.06, and review your policy's tornado protection annually.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Livingston County

via WeatherByCounty

Hotter than the national average

Livingston averages 57.1°F, making it warmer than the national median. It experiences a typical humid subtropical climate with 49.3 inches of rain each year.

Higher heat than state norms

The county is nearly a full degree warmer than the Kentucky state average of 56.2°F. While temperature is higher, precipitation is slightly lower than the state's 50.6-inch average.

Hotter and drier than Letcher

With 38 extreme heat days, Livingston is significantly hotter than neighboring Letcher or Lee. Its snowfall of 3.8 inches is much lighter than the 17.1 inches found in Lee County.

Intense heat and limited snow

July is quite hot here, averaging 78.3°F with 38 days reaching into the 90s. Winters remain mild compared to the region, averaging 36.6°F with very limited snowfall.

Maximize cooling and hydration

High-efficiency air conditioning is a must to combat the 38 days of extreme heat. Since snowfall is minimal at 3.8 inches, focus your seasonal prep on summer hydration and heat safety.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Livingston County

via SoilByCounty

Above Average Soil Quality

Livingston County boasts a strong soil score of 60.2, outpacing the Kentucky state average of 56.2. Its pH of 5.88 is slightly higher than the state average, though it remains more acidic than the national 6.5 median.

Productive Silt Landscapes

The soil profile is dominated by 64.1% silt, with a clay content of 21.0% and only 14.9% sand. This silty texture makes the land highly productive and capable of holding essential nutrients for crops.

Excellent Water Retention

With an available water capacity of 0.198 inches, this soil holds more moisture than the state average of 0.186. Organic matter stands at 2.26%, providing a solid foundation for plant health above the 2.0% national benchmark.

Stable Moisture Levels

While formal drainage classes are not listed, the high silt and clay combination suggests the land retains water very well. Proper drainage planning is essential for both agricultural success and stable residential construction.

Long Seasons in Zone 7a

Hardiness Zone 7a opens the door for a long growing season and heat-tolerant crops. Melons, tomatoes, and ornamental shrubs flourish in this fertile, moisture-rich environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Livingston County

via LawnByCounty

Rising Challenges in Livingston County

Livingston County has a lawn difficulty score of 60.3, which is more challenging than the Kentucky average of 66.3. The 7a hardiness zone here faces tougher summer conditions that require more active management than the national median.

Navigating High Heat and Humidity

This county endures 38 extreme heat days per year, significantly exceeding the state average of 30. While the 49.3 inches of rain is nearly ideal, the high cumulative heat of 4,329 growing degree days puts extra pressure on cool-season grasses.

Balancing Silt and Acidity

The soil pH is slightly acidic at 5.88, requiring minor lime adjustments to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal range. With a composition of 21.0% clay and only 14.9% sand, your soil may be prone to compaction, making annual core aeration a necessity.

Current Dry Conditions Alert

Livingston County is currently 100% abnormally dry (D0), and it saw nine weeks of drought over the last year. Immediate water conservation is recommended, such as raising mower blades to three inches to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Planning Around the Frost

The spring frost usually clears by April 3, providing an early start for the growing season. Because of the 38 heat days, consider heat-tolerant Tall Fescue or even a warm-season grass like Zoysia for a more resilient summer lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Livingston County's county score?
Livingston County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 59 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 Livingston County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Livingston County ranks #67 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 Livingston County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Livingston County is $731, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Livingston County a tax score of 71.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Livingston County?
The median household income in Livingston County, Kentucky is $59,713 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Livingston County earns an income score of 38/100 on CountyScore.
Is Livingston County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Livingston County scores 59/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #67 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Livingston 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 Livingston 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.