countyscore
54.6
County Score
Weather & Climate 69.3Lawn Care 65.2Health 64.1

County Report Card

About Nelson County, Kentucky

Nelson County exceeds the national median score

Nelson County earns a composite score of 54.7, outperforming the national median of 50.0. While it sits comfortably above the midpoint of U.S. counties, it faces some pressure from rising housing costs. The county remains a stable performer in the national landscape.

Trailing the Kentucky state average slightly

Nelson's score of 54.7 falls slightly behind the Kentucky state average of 58.6. This gap is largely driven by a cost score of 36.5, which is lower than many of its more rural neighbors. Despite this, it remains a key economic player in the region.

Strong health outcomes and growing income levels

Health is a primary strength here, earning a high score of 64.1. Residents enjoy a median household income of $67,888, which supports a robust income score of 61.5. Safety levels remain consistently strong with a score of 63.8.

Navigating higher costs and environmental risks

The county's lowest score is in housing affordability at 36.5, with median home values reaching $224,100. Environmental risk also presents a challenge, as the risk score sits at 44.8. Water quality scores are moderate at 41.8, suggesting a need for infrastructure focus.

Ideal for established professionals and families

Nelson County is a perfect fit for professionals who value health and safety over rock-bottom prices. With median rents at $932, it is more expensive than surrounding counties but offers higher earning potential. It serves as a middle-ground destination for those seeking quality of life near Kentucky's urban hubs.

2040608010053.836.563.864.15861.544.841.869.3Tax53.8Cost36.5Safety63.8Health64.1Schools58Income61.5Risk44.8Water41.8Weather69.354.6/100
This county
National avg
3 above average2 below average

Nelson County DNA

Foverall

How Nelson County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Nelson County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (64.1/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (41.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
53.8
Cost
36.5-11.5
Safety
63.8+8.799999999999997
Health
64.1+14.099999999999994
Schools
58
Income
61.5+10.5
Risk
44.8
Water
41.8-16.200000000000003
Weather
69.3+13.299999999999997
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$224,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$932/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$224,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$37,280/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $67,888/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

12.7

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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Nearby counties

Bullitt County
Kentucky
49.5
Washington County
Kentucky
65.8
Spencer County
Kentucky
59.3
Marion County
Kentucky
62.5
Larue County
Kentucky
61.6
Hardin County
Kentucky
48.1
Jefferson County
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34.3
Anderson County
Kentucky
59.6

Deep Dives

Nelson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Nelson County

via TaxByCounty

Nelson's taxes exceed national average

Nelson County's effective tax rate of 0.795% exceeds the national median of 0.88%, placing it in approximately the 60th percentile nationally. At $1,782 in median annual property taxes on a $224,100 home, Nelson residents pay significantly more than the national median of $2,690.

Above-average taxes in Kentucky

Nelson's 0.795% rate ranks above Kentucky's state average of 0.719%, making it one of the higher-taxed counties statewide. The median property tax of $1,782 exceeds the state median by $689, placing Nelson in the upper third for tax burden.

Higher taxes than most nearby counties

Nelson County's 0.795% rate is higher than Muhlenberg (0.694%), Nicholas (0.568%), and Ohio (0.613%), but lower than Oldham (0.921%). Among mid-tier regional counties, Nelson carries a noticeably steeper tax burden.

Nelson homeowner tax reality

A median-valued home of $224,100 in Nelson County generates $1,782 in annual property taxes. When mortgage-related taxes and assessments are included, annual costs reach approximately $1,912.

Appeal opportunities exist in Nelson

With above-average tax rates, Nelson County homeowners should verify their assessments are accurate and current. Many properties in the county are likely overassessed, making a property tax appeal a worthwhile step to reduce annual bills.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Nelson County

via CostByCounty

Nelson Balances Higher Costs with Strong Income

Nelson County residents earn $67,888 median annually—significantly above the national average of $74,755—yet their 16.5% rent-to-income ratio remains competitive. At $932 monthly, rent is higher than state average ($771) but paired with above-average earnings, keeping affordability in healthy territory.

Upper-Middle Tier for Kentucky Affordability

Nelson County ranks among Kentucky's more prosperous regions, with a rent-to-income ratio just below the state average and household income well above statewide norms. This positions Nelson as one of the state's more economically stable counties.

Premium Pricing in a Premium County

Nelson's median rent of $932 tops most surrounding counties—Owen County ($775) and Oldham County ($1,142) are the main exceptions—reflecting Nelson's reputation as a desirable region. Home values of $224,100 also outpace nearby Nicholas County ($119,600) and Muhlenberg ($121,300), signaling stronger demand.

Owner Costs Match Rent in Nelson County

At $67,888 annual income, Nelson residents spend approximately 16.5% on rent and 16.7% on mortgage costs—a balanced split that suggests healthy financial flexibility. Median home value reaches $224,100, accessible to those earning at or above the county median through conventional financing.

Nelson Offers Growth and Stability

If you're seeking a Kentucky county with strong job prospects and above-average incomes, Nelson delivers—though expect to pay somewhat more than rural neighbors. Your housing costs remain reasonable relative to earnings, making this an attractive option for career-focused relocators.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Nelson County

via IncomeByCounty

Nelson punches above Kentucky average

Nelson County's median household income of $67,888 exceeds Kentucky's state average by $11,979 but still trails the national median of $74,755 by $6,867. This 9% gap below national figures suggests a county outperforming its region but facing national economic headwinds. Nelson ranks solidly above the bottom half nationally.

Top earners among Kentucky counties

Nelson's $67,888 median household income ranks in the upper quartile statewide, beating 75% of Kentucky counties. The county's per capita income of $33,257 also exceeds the state average of $29,616 by 12%, signaling broader prosperity. Nelson stands as a relative economic leader within the commonwealth.

Economic leader in its region

Nelson ($67,888) significantly outearns most nearby counties, including Muhlenberg ($52,672) by $15,216 and Ohio County ($54,369) by $13,519. Only Pendleton ($66,601) comes close, suggesting Nelson benefits from diversified employment and regional economic strength. This income advantage positions Nelson as a regional employment hub.

Strong housing affordability story

Nelson's rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% indicates households spend just over one-sixth of earnings on rent, well below the 18% comfort threshold. The median home value of $224,100 reflects Nelson's desirability and economic vitality without straining household budgets. Housing remains genuinely affordable for Nelson's earning level.

Ready for wealth-building investments

Nelson County households earning $67,888 have sufficient income cushion to pursue retirement accounts, home equity strategies, and diversified investments. The combination of strong earnings and affordable housing creates opportunity for wealth accumulation beyond emergency savings. Financial advisors can help Nelson residents capitalize on their above-average earning position.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Nelson County

via CrimeByCounty

Nelson County Outperforms National Safety Standards

Nelson County boasts a safety score of 98.7, reflecting a total crime rate of 842.3 per 100,000 people. This rate is nearly three times lower than the national average of 2,385.5 per 100,000. Five reporting agencies work together to keep the community significantly safer than the average American county.

Steady Safety Performance Within Kentucky

The county's safety score of 98.7 is nearly identical to the Kentucky state average of 98.8. While the local crime rate of 842.3 is slightly higher than the state average of 786.2, Nelson County remains a secure place to live and work. Law enforcement efforts effectively manage the needs of this growing community.

Safety Comparisons Across the Region

Nelson County's total crime rate of 842.3 per 100,000 is higher than nearby Owen County's 445.3 but comparable to neighboring Oldham County's 831.0. These figures suggest that while regional activity varies, Nelson County stays within the typical range for established Kentucky communities. Collaborative policing helps keep local rates stable year-over-year.

Violent Crime Remains Exceptionally Low

Nelson County reports a violent crime rate of only 62.0 per 100,000, well below the national mark of 369.8. Property crime is more frequent at 780.3 incidents per 100,000, representing the vast majority of local law enforcement calls. These numbers indicate that most residents will rarely encounter serious criminal activity.

Prioritize Property Protection at Home

Since property crime is the most common concern, consider upgrading your home’s deadbolts and window locks. Security systems with mobile alerts provide peace of mind and act as a strong deterrent to burglars. Staying vigilant and connected with neighbors further strengthens Nelson County's safety net.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Nelson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Dual-District System

Nelson County supports 7,133 students through a network of 19 public schools across two distinct districts. The infrastructure includes seven elementary, three middle, and six high schools, providing a diverse range of educational pathways for the community.

Competitive Scores and Solid Funding

Nelson County matches the Kentucky state average school score exactly at 55.3, while outperforming the national graduation rate at 93.4%. Local investment stands at $6,971 per pupil, which is higher than the state average and helps drive these competitive results.

Nelson County and Bardstown Independent Districts

The Nelson County district is the largest, serving 4,420 students, while Bardstown Independent serves another 2,713 students. Charter schools do not currently operate in either district, as traditional public schools comprise 100% of the local options.

Town-Centered Schools in a Rural Landscape

The county features a mix of 11 rural and 8 town-based schools, with an average enrollment of 420 students per campus. Bardstown Elementary is the largest school with 795 students, while many of the rural primary schools offer a smaller, close-knit learning environment.

Invest in a Home Near Bardstown Excellence

Prospective homeowners often prioritize the highly-regarded Bardstown Independent or Nelson County districts when searching for property. Proximity to major campuses like Nelson County High or Foster Heights Elementary remains a key factor for families moving to the area.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Nelson County

via RiskByCounty

Nelson County's risk exceeds national norms

Nelson County scores 55.18 on the composite risk scale—well above Kentucky's state average of 44.21—making it one of the state's more hazard-exposed counties. Tornadoes (69.08) and floods (62.66) drive this elevated profile, positioning the county in the upper tier of disaster vulnerability.

Among Kentucky's riskier counties

Nelson County's 55.18 composite score places it in the higher-risk quartile across Kentucky's 120 counties, significantly outpacing the state average. Only a handful of counties exceed Nelson's vulnerability level, making disaster preparedness and resilience investments particularly important here.

Notably higher risk than surrounding areas

Nelson County's 55.18 risk score considerably exceeds nearby Oldham County (55.98—nearly identical), but towers over lower-risk neighbors like Pendleton County (29.90) and Owen County (15.20) to the north and east. The county's exceptional tornado (69.08) and flood (62.66) exposures set it apart from its quieter regional peers.

Tornadoes and floods are serious threats

Nelson County residents face severe tornado risk (69.08) and substantial flood risk (62.66), both ranking in the upper range of state hazards. While earthquake exposure (70.26) is notable, tornadoes and flooding present the most immediate and frequent dangers requiring preparedness planning.

Flood and storm insurance are essential

Homeowners in Nelson County should prioritize flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, given the county's 62.66 flood risk score. Storm-resistant construction, reinforced roofing, and comprehensive homeowners coverage are critical investments against the county's exceptionally high 69.08 tornado threat.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Nelson County

via WaterByCounty

Nelson County earns a D grade

The county has recorded 15 health violations over the past five years, resulting in a D grade. Despite the low grade, the violation rate of 29.0 per 100,000 residents remains lower than the Kentucky average of 35.7.

Local waterways remain unimpaired

According to 2022 federal records, both of the county's assessed water bodies currently meet §303(d) standards. This 0.0% impairment rate aligns with the current state average for assessed watersheds.

Gaps in federal monitoring records

There are currently no water quality monitoring records available for Nelson County in the federal EPA Water Quality Portal. This lack of recent data makes it difficult to assess specific characteristic groups or long-term chemical trends.

Rolling Fork at 8% capacity

The primary gauge at Rolling Fork near Boston shows a current discharge of 146 cfs. This is just 8% of the long-term mean of 1,852 cfs, indicating significantly drier-than-normal conditions.

Monitor flow and system updates

Because drinking water compliance is rated a D, residents should stay informed about local utility notices regarding health violations. The extreme low flow in the Rolling Fork suggests a need for heightened awareness regarding source water availability.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Nelson County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Temperate Kentucky Climate

Nelson County averages 56.8°F annually, which aligns closely with the state average of 56.2°F. The county receives 51.6 inches of precipitation, making it slightly wetter than the national median.

Standard Temperature with Above-Average Rain

The county is a typical representative of Kentucky's climate, though it receives about an inch more rain than the state average of 50.6 inches. It also maintains a higher-than-average snowfall total for the region.

Higher Snowfall Than Southern Neighbors

Nelson's 11.9 inches of annual snow is much higher than the 5.7 inches recorded in Monroe County. This makes the county a prime spot for more traditional winter weather compared to the southern border counties.

Hot Summers and Snowy Winters

Summers feature 24 days above 90°F, with July averages reaching 76.5°F. Winters bring nearly a foot of snow annually, though January averages stay just above freezing at 34.7°F.

Prepare for Snow and Heavy Rain

Residents should keep snow shovels ready for the 11.9 inches of winter accumulation. The high annual rainfall of 51.6 inches also makes consistent gutter cleaning essential to prevent water damage.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Nelson County

via SoilByCounty

Nelson's Slightly Acidic Foundation

Nelson County features an average pH of 5.96, which is more favorable for plant growth than the state average of 5.80. While still below the national median of 6.5, this soil profile supports the lush landscapes typical of the Bluegrass region.

The Power of Silt

The soil composition is dominated by 57.8% silt, paired with 25.5% clay and 16.0% sand. This high silt content makes the soil easy to work, though the significant clay portion helps it retain essential nutrients.

Superior Water Storage

The county's available water capacity of 0.191 in/in outperforms the Kentucky state average of 0.186 in/in. Its 2.32% organic matter content also beats the national average of 2.0%, providing a fertile environment for local farmers.

Hydraulic Stability and Runoff

While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the high silt and clay levels suggest the land retains moisture well. This profile requires mindful drainage planning to avoid saturation during the state's frequent spring rains.

Grown in Zone 7a

Nelson County's Zone 7a status allows for a wide range of crops, from corn to premium tobacco and wine grapes. Local gardeners can enjoy a long season, making this a perfect place to plant a diverse backyard orchard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Nelson County

via LawnByCounty

Consistent Growing Conditions in Nelson

Nelson County earns a lawn difficulty score of 65.2, which aligns closely with the Kentucky state average of 66.3. Situated in Zone 7a, this county provides a reliable environment for homeowners seeking a green, healthy yard.

Heat and Moisture in Balance

With 51.6 inches of annual precipitation and 24 extreme heat days, the local climate is slightly wetter than the state average. The 4,157 growing degree days provide a robust window for turf development between the April and October frosts.

Managing Clay-Heavy Soil

The soil features 25.5% clay and a pH of 5.96, which is just below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most grasses. Adding lime can help raise the pH, while regular aeration will prevent the clay from compacting and suffocating grass roots.

Moderate Drought Resistance

Nelson County saw 6 weeks of drought over the past year, though it currently reports no abnormally dry areas. To save water, mow your grass at a height of 3 to 4 inches to help shade the soil and retain moisture during peak summer.

Planting Around the Frost Dates

The growing season typically begins after the April 13th frost and ends by October 25th. Tall fescue is the top recommendation for this zone, and fall is the perfect time to seed for maximum spring density.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nelson County's county score?
Nelson County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 54.6 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 Nelson County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Nelson County ranks #89 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 Nelson County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Nelson County is $1,782, with an effective tax rate of 0.80%. This earns Nelson County a tax score of 53.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Nelson County?
The median household income in Nelson County, Kentucky is $67,888 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Nelson County earns an income score of 61.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Nelson County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Nelson County scores 54.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #89 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Nelson 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 Nelson 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.