countyscore
69.1
County Score
Cost of Living 96.9Safety 92.3Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About McCreary County, Kentucky

McCreary County is a National Leader

McCreary County achieves a remarkable composite score of 69.0, placing it in the top tier of counties nationally. This score suggests a significantly higher quality of life than the 50.0 national median.

Far Exceeding the Kentucky Average

With a 69.0 score, McCreary County easily surpasses the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It is one of the most livable counties in the Commonwealth when measuring safety and affordability.

Exceptional Value and Safety

The county is incredibly affordable with a cost score of 96.9 and a median home value of just $77,000. It also excels in safety with a score of 92.3 and water quality at 86.0.

Health and Income Limitations

The income score is very low at 1.8, with a median household income of $37,355. Health outcomes also lag behind other metrics, with a dimension score of 22.8.

The Ultimate Choice for Affordability

McCreary County is the perfect destination for people looking to maximize their housing dollar while enjoying peace and safety. It is an ideal spot for retirees or those with remote income sources.

2040608010059.496.992.322.874.61.874.78667.8Tax59.4Cost96.9Safety92.3Health22.8Schools74.6Income1.8Risk74.7Water86Weather67.869.1/100
This county
National avg
6 above average2 below average

McCreary County DNA

C-overall

How McCreary County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

McCreary County scores above average across most dimensions. It's a well-balanced county with particular strength in Cost of Living (96.9/100).

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
59.4
Cost
96.9+48.900000000000006
Safety
92.3+37.3
Health
22.8-27.2
Schools
74.6+20.599999999999994
Income
1.8-49.2
Risk
74.7+27.700000000000003
Water
86+28
Weather
67.8+11.799999999999997
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$77,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$588/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$77,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$23,520/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $37,355/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

5.9

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Counties with similar scores

San Juan County
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Median income: $73,889
69.1
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Iowa
Median income: $83,617
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Marshall County
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Median income: $71,701
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Wahkiakum County
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Median income: $57,091
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Harlan County
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Median income: $70,536
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Pembina County
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Median income: $66,884
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Van Buren County
Tennessee
Median income: $60,281
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Mineral County
Colorado
Median income: $52,455
69.2

Nearby counties

Whitley County
Kentucky
64.4
Wayne County
Kentucky
63
Pulaski County
Kentucky
57.1
Scott County
Tennessee
57.8
Laurel County
Kentucky
51.1
Campbell County
Tennessee
50.9
Knox County
Kentucky
56.5
Russell County
Kentucky
65.5

Deep Dives

McCreary County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in McCreary County

via TaxByCounty

McCreary's rate far below national median

McCreary County's 0.734% effective tax rate is less than one-quarter the national median property tax bill of $2,690 on a $281,900 home. With the lowest median home value in this analysis at $77,000, McCreary homeowners face minimal tax burdens by any national measure.

McCreary matches state average rate

At 0.734%, McCreary's effective rate slightly exceeds Kentucky's 0.719% state average, placing it near the statewide median. The $565 median tax bill represents the lowest in this county group—49% below Kentucky's $1,093 state median, driven by exceptionally low property values.

McCreary low-tax but similar to peers

McCreary's 0.734% rate matches McCracken County exactly and sits between lower-tax Mason County (0.634%) and higher-tax Marion County (0.708%). The county's extremely low median home value of $77,000 keeps absolute tax bills modest despite moderate tax rates.

Median McCreary home costs $565 yearly

A typical $77,000 home in McCreary County generates approximately $565 in annual property taxes, translating to just $47 monthly for owners without mortgages. Mortgage-inclusive assessments bring the bill to an average of $800.

Appeals matter for all homeowners

Even in economically challenged McCreary County, assessments sometimes exceed market reality, particularly for lower-valued properties. A free appeal with the county assessor can verify fair value and potentially recover overpayment, regardless of home price.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in McCreary County

via CostByCounty

McCreary confronts real affordability strain

McCreary County residents spend 18.9% of income on rent—well above Kentucky's 17% average and edging toward the national affordability crisis threshold. The median household income of $37,355 creates genuine hardship despite bargain $588 monthly rents.

Above-average housing burden

McCreary's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's 17.0% state average by nearly 2 percentage points, placing it in the stressed tier of county affordability. This burden reflects very low household income relative to even modest regional rents.

Second-lowest income in region

McCreary's $37,355 median income ranks second-lowest after Magoffin ($33,632), making housing costs proportionally heavier despite $588 rent being moderate for the area. The income constraint, not housing prices, drives affordability stress.

Low rents can't offset low income

McCreary renters spend $588 monthly (18.9% of income) while owners manage better at $472, but both situations strain a $37,355 median household budget. The median home value of $77,000 is lowest in the region but still difficult for jobless or underemployed families.

McCreary: cheap housing, limited jobs

McCreary's $588 rent and $77,000 median home price are among the region's lowest, but the $37,355 median income signals economic struggle. Unless you have external income (remote work, pensions), compare job prospects in Martin ($46,185) or Magoffin ($33,632) before settling.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in McCreary County

via IncomeByCounty

McCreary faces steep national income gap

McCreary County's median household income of $37,355 trails the national median of $74,755 by 50%, among Kentucky's most economically challenged counties. Per capita income of just $16,972 runs 43% below the state average of $29,616, the lowest of the eight counties.

Ranked among Kentucky's lowest earners

McCreary County's median household income of $37,355 falls $18,554 below Kentucky's state average of $55,909, placing it near the bottom statewide. The county faces severe structural economic pressures.

Eastern Kentucky economic distress zone

McCreary County's $37,355 income exceeds only Magoffin County ($33,632) among the eight counties, indicating concentrated hardship in eastern Kentucky. It substantially trails Martin County ($46,185), Marion County ($55,404), and all other regional peers.

Housing costs consume significant income share

McCreary County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% is the second-highest among the eight counties, indicating housing stress despite low median home values of $77,000. Renters face particular budget pressure in this low-income community.

Education and skills unlock earnings potential

McCreary County residents benefit from the state's most affordable housing, with median values of $77,000, creating homeownership opportunity despite lower incomes. Pursuing vocational training, education, and remote work opportunities can significantly expand earning potential and long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in McCreary County

via CrimeByCounty

McCreary County is among the nation's safest

McCreary County features an exceptionally low total crime rate of 118.4 per 100,000 residents. This performance is nearly 20 times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns an elite safety score of 99.8 out of 100.

A leader in Kentucky public safety

With a crime rate of 118.4, McCreary County far outperforms the Kentucky state average of 786.2. Its safety score of 99.8 is significantly higher than the state average of 98.8. Two local agencies work diligently to maintain this peaceful environment for the community.

Comparing McCreary to other secure areas

McCreary County is safer than Marshall County, which has a much higher rate of 965.1. It is very similar to Martin County, which reports a rate of 141.7. These low numbers highlight McCreary as one of the quietest and safest spots in the region.

Zero violent crimes reported in 2022

Impressively, McCreary County reported 0.0 violent crimes per 100,000 residents in the latest data. The entire crime rate of 118.4 is comprised of property crimes. This makes the county one of the rare places in the U.S. where violent crime is virtually non-existent in the data.

Keeping McCreary County safe and secure

Though the risk is low, property crime is the only type reported in the area. Secure your home and vehicles to deter opportunistic theft and keep those numbers near zero. Your attention to detail helps preserve the incredible safety record of the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in McCreary County

via SchoolsByCounty

Focused Rural Learning in McCreary

McCreary County operates four public schools serving 2,715 students within a single district. The network is streamlined into two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school.

Top-Tier Results and High Investment

The county achieves a stellar 97.0% graduation rate, outperforming both state and national averages. This success is backed by a per-pupil expenditure of $7,528 and an impressive school score of 58.4.

A Centralized Rural School System

The McCreary County district serves all 2,715 students in the region, with no charter schools present. This single-district model ensures that high levels of funding are distributed across the four primary campuses.

Large School Spirit in a Rural Setting

All four schools are located in rural areas, yet they maintain a high average size of 679 students. Pine Knot Elementary is the largest campus with 825 students, creating a vibrant and busy learning environment.

Discover Academic Excellence in McCreary

With some of the highest graduation rates and per-pupil spending in the state, McCreary County is a hidden gem for families. Explore homes in this rural enclave to secure a high-quality education for your children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in McCreary County

via RiskByCounty

McCreary ranks among Kentucky's safest counties

McCreary County's composite risk score of 25.32 places it in the 'very low' category and well below the national average of 50.19. The county's minimal exposure across most hazards makes it one of Kentucky's most favorable locations for disaster resilience.

McCreary is among the state's lowest-risk counties

McCreary's composite score of 25.32 sits substantially below Kentucky's state average of 44.21, ranking it among the commonwealth's safest areas. The county's minimal wildfire risk of 74.17 is lower than many peers, though wildfire remains its most prominent hazard.

McCreary is safer than most regional counties

McCreary's score of 25.32 is lower than neighboring Marion (30.22), Mason (39.19), and Martin (49.94), making it among the region's most hazard-resilient counties. Only its wildfire exposure at 74.17 approaches moderate levels; all other threats remain well-controlled.

Wildfire is McCreary's primary hazard

Wildfire risk at 74.17 is McCreary's leading threat, though it remains below state averages and manageable with proper planning. Tornado (48.16) and hurricane risks (48.48) are secondary concerns, while flooding and earthquakes pose minimal danger.

Prioritize wildfire prevention measures

Clear dead vegetation and overhanging branches within 30 feet of your home to reduce wildfire ignition risk despite the county's overall low profile. Ensure your homeowner's policy covers wildfire damage, and maintain gutters clear of debris to manage seasonal water drainage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in McCreary County

via WaterByCounty

McCreary County Leads in Water Safety

McCreary earns an A grade for its drinking water, maintaining zero health violations over the last five years. This puts the county well ahead of the state average rate of 35.7 per 100K. The local infrastructure is currently performing at a very high level.

Extensive Watershed Testing Shows Zero Impairments

With 14 assessed water bodies and zero impairments, McCreary County shows a robust profile of watershed health in the 2022 cycle. This 0% impairment rate is a positive indicator for local recreation and ecosystem stability. It is one of the most thoroughly assessed and cleanest watersheds in the region.

Frequent Sampling Ensures Watershed Transparency

Eight monitoring sites have provided 3,414 measurements over the last five years. Data collection focuses on physical characteristics and metals, ensuring a clear picture of the county's environmental water quality. This data supports the high watershed health ratings reported by the state.

Cumberland River Levels Below Typical Mean

The Cumberland River at Cumberland Falls is currently flowing at 668 cfs, which is 21% of its 3,238 cfs long-term mean. While flow is low, the large drainage area of nearly 2,000 square miles provides some resilience for the waterway. This reduction in flow is common during seasonal dry periods.

Exceptional Quality Requires Continued Vigilance

High compliance and healthy watersheds make McCreary's water some of the most reliable in the region. Residents should simply stay aware of the lower-than-average river flows, which can affect local recreation at the falls. Continued protection of the forest-heavy watershed is key to maintaining this status.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in McCreary County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool and Rainy Highland Climate

McCreary County's 54.9°F annual average is near the national median, but its 56.1 inches of rain is exceptionally high. This creates a lush, humid environment with frequent precipitation.

One of Kentucky's Wettest Spots

At 56.1 inches, McCreary far exceeds the state average rainfall of 50.6 inches. It is also over a degree cooler than the Kentucky state average temperature of 56.2°F.

Cooler and Wetter Than Neighbors

McCreary is much wetter than nearby Martin County and significantly cooler than McLean County. It experiences only 16 extreme heat days, the lowest in this regional group.

Mild Summers and Damp Winters

July averages a pleasant 74.4°F, and extreme heat is rare with only 16 days reaching 90°F. Winters are cold but moist, with January temperatures averaging 34.5°F.

Waterproofing is the Top Priority

The high annual rainfall requires excellent roof maintenance and basement waterproofing. While heat is less of a concern, residents should prepare for high humidity and damp winter conditions.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in McCreary County

via SoilByCounty

Soil Life in the Daniel Boone Forest

McCreary County lacks specific mapped data for its soil score and average pH. Most soils in this forested, high-elevation region are naturally more acidic than the national median pH of 6.5.

Sands and Silts of the Plateau

Detailed measurements for sand, silt, and clay are not provided in the current database for this county. The sandstone and shale bedrock of the area typically produces well-draining, coarser-textured soils on the ridges.

Supporting Growth in Forest Soils

No specific figures for organic matter or available water capacity are available at this time. To match the state's 3.55% organic matter average, local gardeners often find success by adding leaf mold or compost.

Hydrology of the High Country

The county does not have a dominant drainage class or hydrologic group listed in central records. Proper planning for water runoff is important in this hilly terrain to prevent erosion in your garden or yard.

Thriving in Zone 7a

McCreary County resides in Hardiness Zone 7a, which is excellent for berry bushes and native woodland flowers. The natural beauty of the region makes it a wonderful place to establish a home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in McCreary County

via LawnByCounty

Easy Growing in McCreary County

A lawn difficulty score of 69.5 makes this county easier to manage than the state average. This zone 7a location provides a relatively stable environment for maintaining a healthy and green home lawn.

High Rainfall and Cool Summers

With 56.1 inches of annual precipitation, McCreary is one of the wettest counties in the region. Combined with only 16 extreme heat days, your lawn will stay naturally cooler and more hydrated than in most of Kentucky.

Managing High Moisture Soils

Local soil pH data is limited, but high rainfall often leads to more acidic soil conditions. It is important to test your soil and ensure it stays near the ideal 6.0-7.0 pH to support healthy root development.

Watching the Drying Trends

Despite high annual rain, about 37.6% of the county is currently abnormally dry. However, the low frequency of extreme heat helps lawns recover quickly from the 9 weeks of drought experienced over the last year.

Lush Choices for a Wet Climate

Tall fescue thrives in this wet and relatively cool environment. Wait to plant until the last spring frost passes on April 24 to ensure your new lawn has the best chance to establish before summer.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is McCreary County's county score?
McCreary County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 69.1 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 McCreary County rank among counties in Kentucky?
McCreary County ranks #8 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 McCreary County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in McCreary County is $565, with an effective tax rate of 0.73%. This earns McCreary County a tax score of 59.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in McCreary County?
The median household income in McCreary County, Kentucky is $37,355 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. McCreary County earns an income score of 1.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is McCreary County, Kentucky a good place to live?
McCreary County scores 69.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #8 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate McCreary 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 McCreary County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.