countyscore
57.9
County Score
Cost of Living 80.7Lawn Care 72.8Safety 65.1

County Report Card

About Muhlenberg County, Kentucky

Muhlenberg outperforms the national median score

Muhlenberg County earns a composite score of 57.9, placing it notably above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balance of strong local affordability and moderate tax burdens. The county remains competitive with other rural regions in the mid-South.

Competing closely with the Kentucky state average

With a 57.9 overall score, Muhlenberg sits just below the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It holds its own against neighbors by offering a lower effective tax rate of 0.694%. This consistency makes it a reliable choice within the Commonwealth.

High scores in affordability and personal safety

The county excels in cost of living with a score of 80.7, supported by a median gross rent of just $712. Safety is another major pillar here, boasting a score of 65.1. Residents also benefit from a relatively low tax burden compared to urban centers.

Addressing income gaps and water quality needs

The local economy faces headwinds with an income score of 20.0 and a median household income of $52,672. Water infrastructure also trails other dimensions with a low score of 25.8. Health outcomes, scored at 41.1, suggest room for improvement in wellness access.

A haven for budget-conscious families

Muhlenberg County is best suited for families or retirees who prioritize low housing costs and safe streets. While income levels are lower than state averages, the $121,300 median home value offers an accessible path to homeownership. It is a solid choice for those seeking a stable, affordable rural lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax63.9Cost80.7Safety65.1Health41.1Schools50.6Income20Risk46.8Water25.8Weather57.6
🏛63.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠80.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼20
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡65.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤41.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡46.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧25.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.8
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

Butler County
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67.9
Ohio County
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Todd County
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McLean County
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Hopkins County
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Logan County
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Christian County
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Deep Dives

Muhlenberg County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Muhlenberg County

via TaxByCounty

Muhlenberg's tax rate ranks low nationally

At 0.694%, Muhlenberg's effective property tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.88%, placing the county in approximately the 25th percentile nationally. Homeowners here pay roughly $842 annually on a median home valued at $121,300—less than a third of the national median property tax of $2,690.

Below-average taxes within Kentucky

Muhlenberg's 0.694% effective rate trails Kentucky's state average of 0.719%, ranking the county in the lower half for tax burden statewide. The median property tax of $842 is also $251 below the state median of $1,093.

Among the lower-taxed in the region

Compared to neighboring counties, Muhlenberg sits in the middle: Nicholas County (0.568%) taxes less, while Nelson County (0.795%) and Pendleton County (0.775%) tax more. Oldham County's 0.921% rate is substantially higher, making Muhlenberg relatively affordable for regional homebuyers.

What $121,300 home costs annually

A median-valued home in Muhlenberg generates approximately $842 in annual property taxes. With mortgage and other obligations factored in, total tax payments rise to roughly $1,035 per year.

Many Muhlenberg homeowners are overassessed

Despite lower county rates, numerous homeowners in Muhlenberg may still be paying more than necessary due to assessment errors or outdated home valuations. Property tax appeals are available and often successful—it's worth checking if your home's assessed value matches current market conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Muhlenberg County

via CostByCounty

Muhlenberg's Housing Costs Run Lean

Renters in Muhlenberg County spend just 16.2% of their income on rent, beating the national average and matching Kentucky's state average of 17.0%. At $712 per month, median rent sits well below the national norm, making this county genuinely affordable for working families.

Middle Ground in Kentucky Housing

Muhlenberg ranks comfortably in the middle range for affordability across Kentucky's counties, neither as stretched as higher-cost urban areas nor as constrained as the state's poorest regions. The county's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio reflects stable economic conditions compared to statewide benchmarks.

Comparing Notes with Nearby Counties

Muhlenberg's $712 rent is slightly lower than neighboring Owen County ($775) and Ohio County ($774), while Nicholas County offers even better deals at $654 monthly. Home values in Muhlenberg ($121,300) closely mirror Nicholas County ($119,600), positioning both as affordable alternatives in the region.

How Income Splits Between Rent and Home

With a median household income of $52,672, Muhlenberg residents allocate roughly 16% to rent and about 15% to mortgage costs, leaving room for other essential expenses. Both renting and owning remain within conventional affordability thresholds, with homeownership possible at the median value of $121,300.

Considering a Move to Muhlenberg?

If you're priced out of costlier Kentucky counties, Muhlenberg delivers solid affordability without sacrificing access to regional amenities. Compare your current rent-to-income ratio: if you're spending over 30%, a move here could free up hundreds monthly for savings and stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Muhlenberg County

via IncomeByCounty

Muhlenberg's income gap from national norm

Muhlenberg County's median household income of $52,672 falls $22,083 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the bottom third nationally. This 30% gap reflects the county's reliance on traditional industries and limited high-wage employment sectors. Residents here earn considerably less than their counterparts across most of America.

Below average for Kentucky overall

At $52,672, Muhlenberg's median household income ranks below Kentucky's state average of $55,909 by $3,237. The county underperforms the state norm despite being part of a region with modest but stable earning potential. This positions Muhlenberg in the lower-middle tier among Kentucky's 120 counties.

Among lower earners in western region

Muhlenberg ($52,672) earns more than Owsley County ($31,064) but significantly less than regional peers like Pendleton ($66,601) and Owen ($59,706). The $14,517 gap between Muhlenberg and Pendleton reflects differences in job diversity and proximity to growth centers. Neighboring counties show the income variability within this region.

Rent remains manageable but stretched

With a rent-to-income ratio of 16.2%, Muhlenberg households dedicate just over a sixth of earnings to rent—slightly below the national comfort threshold of 18%. The median home value of $121,300 remains accessible relative to income levels. Still, lower overall earnings leave less room for other expenses compared to higher-income regions.

Build stability with strategic saving

For Muhlenberg households earning $52,672 annually, prioritizing an emergency fund and employer retirement plans offers the best returns. Even modest consistent investments in low-cost index funds can compound over time to offset the county's income disadvantages. Financial counseling services through local nonprofits can help families maximize limited earning power.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Muhlenberg County

via CrimeByCounty

Muhlenberg County Remains Much Safer Than National Average

Muhlenberg County reports a total crime rate of 816.6 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the national rate of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a high safety score of 98.7 out of 100. Residents enjoy a level of security that far exceeds most areas in the United States.

Slightly Below Kentucky's Average Safety Mark

While Muhlenberg is very safe nationally, its safety score of 98.7 sits just below the Kentucky state average of 98.8. The local crime rate of 816.6 per 100,000 is slightly higher than the state average of 786.2. Four local law enforcement agencies contribute to these comprehensive public safety figures.

Comparing Safety With Western Kentucky Neighbors

With 816.6 crimes per 100,000 people, Muhlenberg County faces higher activity than neighboring Ohio County, which records 794.8. However, Muhlenberg remains a beacon of relative safety in the region compared to larger metropolitan hubs. Local law enforcement maintains a consistent presence across the county's rural and town landscapes.

Property Crimes Outpace Violent Incidents

Property crime accounts for the majority of local offenses at 728.8 per 100,000 residents, while violent crime remains low at 87.8. For every violent incident reported, there are roughly eight property-related crimes like theft or burglary. This trend mirrors state patterns where property concerns are the primary law enforcement focus.

Enhance Your Muhlenberg Home Security

Focus your safety efforts on preventing property crime by installing motion-sensor lighting and smart cameras. Always lock your vehicles and outbuildings to deter opportunistic theft in residential areas. Small proactive steps help maintain the high quality of life Muhlenberg residents expect.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Muhlenberg County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy slightly above U.S. average

Muhlenberg County residents live to an average of 72.9 years, outpacing the national average of 71.4 years by 1.5 years. However, nearly one in four residents report poor or fair health, suggesting that extra years don't necessarily mean better health.

Ranking among Kentucky's healthier counties

At 72.9 years, Muhlenberg County's life expectancy exceeds the state average of 72.2 years—a small but meaningful edge in a state facing significant health challenges. The county's uninsured rate of 6.9% sits just below Kentucky's 7.0% average.

Better than nearby Appalachian communities

Muhlenberg County outperforms neighboring Nicholas County (72.7 years) and Ohio County (72.8 years), offering more primary care providers at 33 per 100K compared to Nicholas's 13 per 100K. Mental health support is also stronger here at 85 per 100K providers.

Healthcare access is uneven for some

While 93.1% of Muhlenberg County residents carry health insurance, the 23.3% reporting poor or fair health reflects underlying access gaps. With 33 primary care providers per 100K, the county has adequate but not abundant front-line medical care.

Check your insurance options today

If you're among the 6.9% of uninsured Muhlenberg County residents, healthcare marketplace enrollment happens year-round with special opportunities during open enrollment. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to explore plans that fit your family's needs and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Muhlenberg County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Consolidated Rural Education Infrastructure

Muhlenberg County operates a streamlined educational system with 11 total public schools serving 4,486 students. The network includes five elementary schools, two middle schools, three high schools, and one alternative facility, all managed by a single unified district.

Consistent Performance and Above-Average Graduation

The county achieves a 91.0% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the national average of 87.0%. While the composite school score of 54.5 sits just below the state average of 55.3, the local per-pupil expenditure of $7,184 exceeds the Kentucky average of $6,894.

Unified District Serving the Entire Community

The Muhlenberg County school district manages all 4,486 students across its 11 campuses, ensuring centralized resource allocation. There are currently zero charter schools in the county, representing 0% of the educational landscape.

A Blend of Rural and Town Campuses

Students attend schools across seven rural and four town-based locales, with an average school size of 498 students. Muhlenberg County High School is the largest with 1,146 students, while Muhlenberg South Middle School offers a more intimate setting with 420 students.

Finding Your Home Near Muhlenberg Schools

Families looking for a community with high graduation rates and localized school settings should explore real estate near Greenville or Central City. Consider how proximity to high-performing primary schools like Greenville Elementary can impact long-term home value and convenience.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Muhlenberg County

via RiskByCounty

Muhlenberg's risk sits above national average

With a composite risk score of 53.24, Muhlenberg County faces a relatively low overall disaster threat, yet scores notably higher than the national median across multiple hazard categories. The county's earthquake risk (85.78) and tornado exposure (54.61) are the primary drivers of this above-average vulnerability, reflecting Kentucky's seismic and severe weather patterns.

Middle-of-pack risk in Kentucky

Muhlenberg's composite score of 53.24 places it above Kentucky's state average of 44.21, ranking it in the upper-middle range of the state's 120 counties. This reflects the county's moderate exposure to tornadoes and seismic activity compared to lower-risk counties like Owen and Owsley.

Higher risk than most regional peers

Neighboring Nelson County (55.18) and Ohio County (54.17) show similar risk profiles, while nearby Nicholas County (18.99) and Owen County (15.20) experience significantly lower overall hazard exposure. Muhlenberg's earthquake and tornado vulnerabilities distinguish it from its lower-risk neighbors to the east and north.

Earthquakes and tornadoes dominate

Muhlenberg County faces its greatest hazards from earthquakes (85.78 risk score) and tornadoes (54.61), with earthquake risk being particularly acute and deserving serious attention. Flood risk (45.74) ranks moderate, while wildfire (18.16) presents minimal concern for most residents.

Secure coverage for quakes and storms

Kentucky's standard homeowners insurance typically excludes earthquake damage, making a separate earthquake policy essential given Muhlenberg's 85.78 exposure score. Storm-resistant home modifications and comprehensive homeowners insurance become critical investments to protect against the county's significant tornado threat.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Muhlenberg County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Precipitation in Western Kentucky

Muhlenberg County receives 48.2 inches of annual precipitation, which is slightly below the Kentucky average of 50.6 inches. This level of moisture is typical for the humid subtropical climate of the region.

Slightly Drier Than the Kentucky Average

While specific temperature records are unavailable, the county's rainfall total of 48.2 inches is about two inches lower than the state benchmark. This makes the local climate slightly drier than many eastern and southern counties.

Drier Conditions Than Central Kentucky

Muhlenberg is notably drier than Nelson County, which receives 51.6 inches of precipitation annually. This variance of over three inches can impact local agriculture and seasonal water availability.

Predictable Rainfall Throughout the Year

Seasonal temperature data is limited, but the annual rainfall of 48.2 inches suggests a lush environment during the growing season. Residents generally face standard Kentucky weather patterns without the extreme moisture spikes seen elsewhere.

Focus on Drought-Tolerant Landscaping

Since the county is drier than the state average, selecting hardy plants for landscaping is a smart choice. Regular maintenance of home exteriors will help manage the 48.2 inches of annual rain that occurs.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Muhlenberg County

via SoilByCounty

Muhlenberg's Hidden Soil Identity

While specific taxonomic data for Muhlenberg is currently unavailable, local soils generally mirror the regional trend toward acidic conditions. Most Kentucky soils fall near the state average pH of 5.80, which is considerably lower than the national median of 6.5.

Balanced Texture for Heavy Use

Detailed percentages for sand, silt, and clay are not recorded here, but the region typically features silty textures common across the Western Kentucky Coal Fields. These textures usually offer a balance between ease of tillage and the structural strength needed for heavy machinery.

A Baseline for Regional Growth

Muhlenberg lacks specific organic matter data, but neighboring counties often exceed the national 2.0% baseline. Growers should aim for the state's healthy average of 0.186 in/in for water capacity to ensure resilient crops during dry summer months.

Managing Water on the Land

Specific drainage classes are not listed, yet the regional topography often requires active water management strategies. Proper site grading is essential for both agricultural productivity and stable residential building foundations.

Thriving in Zone 7a

The county sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, supporting a diverse array of hardy vegetables and ornamental shrubs. It is an ideal climate for long-season crops like melons or sweet potatoes, so start your garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Muhlenberg County

via LawnByCounty

A High Standard for Muhlenberg Lawns

Muhlenberg County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 72.8, making it significantly easier to maintain than the national average of 50.0. Located in Hardiness Zone 7a, the county offers a more favorable environment for turf than the typical Kentucky county.

Ample Rainfall Powers Local Growth

The county receives 48.2 inches of annual precipitation, which is close to the ideal range for healthy turf. While specific heat and growing season data are limited, this steady moisture supports a consistent mowing schedule throughout the year.

Preparing the Ground for Success

Specific soil data for Muhlenberg is currently unavailable, but the regional climate suggests a need for routine aeration. Homeowners should perform a local soil test to determine the exact pH and nutrient requirements before applying fertilizers.

Weathering the Dry Spells

The county experienced only 6 weeks in drought conditions over the past year, keeping lawns relatively hydrated. With 0.0% of the area currently in severe drought, focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root systems.

Start Your 7a Lawn Today

Tall fescue and bermudagrass thrive in this 7a hardiness zone because they can handle the varied Kentucky weather. Plan to overseed in the early fall when temperatures begin to drop to ensure your lawn stays thick and resilient.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Muhlenberg County's county score?
Muhlenberg County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 57.9 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 Muhlenberg County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Muhlenberg County ranks #73 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 Muhlenberg County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Muhlenberg County is $842, with an effective tax rate of 0.69%. This earns Muhlenberg County a tax score of 63.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Muhlenberg County?
The median household income in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky is $52,672 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Muhlenberg County earns an income score of 20/100 on CountyScore.
Is Muhlenberg County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Muhlenberg County scores 57.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #73 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Muhlenberg 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 Muhlenberg 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.