countyscore
57.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.7Health 94.3Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Oldham County, Kentucky

Oldham County outperforms the national median

Oldham County scores a 57.1 composite, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. While high costs weigh the score down, the county's wealth and health metrics are among the best in the nation. It represents a high-end suburban profile within the United States.

Kentucky's premier high-income destination

Despite its 57.1 score being slightly under the state average of 58.6, Oldham is a state leader in economic metrics. Its median household income of $121,491 is vastly higher than most other Kentucky counties. High housing costs are the only factor keeping its composite score from being higher.

Elite income levels and top-tier health

The county boasts a near-perfect income score of 98.7 and a stellar health score of 94.3. Water quality is also exceptional, earning a score of 86.0. Education remains a priority, evidenced by a strong school score of 68.0.

Managing high costs and tax burdens

Affordability is the main trade-off, with a cost score of 12.1 and median home values at $375,000. The tax score of 43.7 reflects a higher effective tax rate of 0.921% compared to rural neighbors. These factors make it one of the most expensive areas in the Commonwealth.

The best choice for affluent professionals

Oldham County is the ideal location for high-earning families who want the best health and school systems money can buy. While the cost of entry is high, the investment pays off in safety, community resources, and economic stability. It is the gold standard for suburban Kentucky living.

Score breakdown

Tax43.7Cost12.1Safety64.4Health94.3Schools68Income98.7Risk44Water86Weather55.9
🏛43.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠12.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡64.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤94.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡44
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱64.9
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

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40.2
Trimble County
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63.7
Shelby County
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48.4
Henry County
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Deep Dives

Oldham County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Oldham County

via TaxByCounty

Oldham County: highest-taxed in profile

Oldham County's effective tax rate of 0.921% exceeds the national median of 0.88%, placing it in approximately the 70th percentile nationally. Residents pay $3,454 annually on a median home valued at $375,000—well above the national median property tax of $2,690.

Highest rate among all eight counties

Oldham County's 0.921% effective rate is the highest in this profile and significantly above Kentucky's state average of 0.719%. The median property tax of $3,454 more than triples the state median of $1,093, reflecting Oldham's affluent property values and higher tax burden.

Substantially higher taxes than peers

Oldham County's 0.921% rate far exceeds all comparable counties: Nicholas (0.568%), Ohio (0.613%), Muhlenberg (0.694%), Owen (0.746%), Pendleton (0.775%), and Nelson (0.795%). The tax disparity reflects Oldham's wealthier demographic and significantly higher home values.

Oldham homeowners pay premium taxes

A median-valued home of $375,000 in Oldham County generates $3,454 in annual property taxes. With mortgage and additional assessments, total annual tax costs reach approximately $3,646.

High-value homes deserve careful review

In Oldham County's affluent market, assessment errors can cost thousands annually—making property tax appeals especially valuable. Homeowners with high-value properties should verify their assessed valuations match market conditions and consider appealing if inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Oldham County

via CostByCounty

Oldham Combines Wealth with Affordability

Oldham County earns distinction as Kentucky's most affluent county with $121,491 median household income—63% above the national average—while keeping rent-to-income ratios at just 11.3%, the lowest of any county studied. This rare combination means residents enjoy high incomes while spending the smallest percentage on rent.

Kentucky's Premier Affluent County

Oldham County ranks as the state's wealthiest and most housing-affordable per capita, driven by strong incomes that dwarf statewide norms. With both the highest median household income and lowest rent burden among Kentucky counties, Oldham stands apart.

Oldham Commands Premium Prices, Justifiably

Oldham's median rent of $1,142 and median home value of $375,000 far exceed all neighboring counties—Nelson ($224,100), Owen ($165,000), and Pendleton ($160,800)—reflecting its status as the region's economic center. Even so, the 11.3% rent-to-income ratio shows that high-earning residents carry lighter housing burdens.

Affluence Means Lower Housing Burden

Oldham residents earning $121,491 annually spend only 11.3% on rent ($1,142) and 16.5% on mortgage costs ($1,665)—ratios that would strain lower-income households but remain comfortable here. Over 70% of income remains available for investments, savings, and discretionary spending.

Oldham for the Upwardly Mobile

If your household earns six figures or close to it, Oldham County offers top-tier Kentucky schools, amenities, and surprisingly manageable housing costs relative to your income. High earners will find homes and communities matching their financial reach without the burden typical of expensive American metros.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Oldham County

via IncomeByCounty

Oldham County's exceptional income advantage

Oldham County's median household income of $121,491 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $46,736, representing a remarkable 62% premium. This substantial lead places Oldham in the top tier nationally for household earnings. Few counties in America earn this decisively above the national standard.

Kentucky's highest-earning county

At $121,491, Oldham County far exceeds Kentucky's state average of $55,909 by $65,582—more than double the state median. The per capita income of $52,773 crushes the state average of $29,616 by 78%, reflecting broad-based prosperity throughout the county. Oldham stands unmatched as Kentucky's premier earning destination.

Economic powerhouse of the region

Oldham ($121,491) dwarfs all neighboring counties: it outearns Nelson ($67,888) by $53,603, Owen ($59,706) by $61,785, and Pendleton ($66,601) by $54,890. This dominant income advantage stems from proximity to Louisville, executive-level employment, and affluent residential communities. Oldham is the undisputed economic leader across multiple counties.

Exceptional housing affordability leverage

Oldham County's rent-to-income ratio of 11.3% is the lowest in this eight-county group, meaning housing consumes just above one-tenth of income. The median home value of $375,000 is highest in the region, yet represents the best affordability ratio thanks to exceptional earnings. Oldham households enjoy unparalleled financial flexibility.

Prime positioning for wealth acceleration

Oldham County residents earning $121,491 have substantial capacity for aggressive wealth-building through diversified investment portfolios, second properties, or business ownership. The combination of high income and low housing cost ratios creates genuine long-term wealth accumulation potential. Sophisticated financial planning and tax optimization strategies deliver maximum returns for Oldham households.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Oldham County

via CrimeByCounty

Oldham County Sets a Safe Standard

Oldham County achieves a high safety score of 98.7, based on a total crime rate of 831.0 per 100,000 residents. This figure is vastly superior to the national crime rate of 2,385.5. Four local reporting agencies maintain a robust presence to protect the community.

Comparing Oldham to the Kentucky Average

The county's safety score of 98.7 is just one decimal point shy of the state average of 98.8. With 831.0 crimes per 100,000, Oldham sits slightly above the state average of 786.2. Despite this, it remains one of the most desirable and secure places to live in the region.

A Leader in Regional Public Safety

Oldham County’s crime rate of 831.0 is lower than Nelson County's 842.3, indicating a very stable environment compared to other suburban counties. Its low violent crime rate makes it a standout choice for families relocating to the area. Professional law enforcement keeps the community's security a top priority.

Focusing on Low Violent Crime Rates

Oldham County reports only 67.7 violent crimes per 100,000, which is lower than the state average of 78.1. Property crime is the main concern at 763.3 per 100,000, though this is still very low compared to urban centers. Theft and burglary represent the vast majority of all reported incidents.

Protect Your Home and Assets

Invest in a modern home security system and ensure your property is well-lit at night to discourage property crime. Always report suspicious activity to one of the county's four reporting agencies immediately. proactive prevention is the key to maintaining Oldham’s safe reputation.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Oldham County

via HealthByCounty

Kentucky's health leader: longest life expectancy

Oldham County residents live to 79.7 years, a remarkable 8.3 years above the U.S. average of 71.4 years and 7.5 years above Kentucky's state average. Only 13.6% report poor or fair health—by far the lowest in this eight-county set.

Outperforming Kentucky by every metric

Oldham County's 79.7-year life expectancy stands 7.5 years above Kentucky's 72.2-year average, while its 3.6% uninsured rate is less than half the state's 7.0% average. This combination of longevity and coverage is exceptional within Kentucky.

Clear regional health leader

Oldham County outpaces all seven peer counties by 4–15 years in life expectancy, with the next-best being Nelson County at 74.2 years. Its 60 primary care providers and 138 mental health providers per 100K are among the highest in the comparison.

Universal coverage and abundant providers

With a 3.6% uninsured rate, 96.4% of Oldham County residents carry health insurance—the highest proportion among the eight counties. The county's 60 primary care and 138 mental health providers per 100K ensure residents can access care quickly and consistently.

Stay covered, stay healthy

Oldham County's health leadership depends on near-universal coverage; the small 3.6% uninsured population should enroll at healthcare.gov to complete this success story. Continuous coverage enables the preventive care patterns that help residents live nearly 8 years longer than average.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Oldham County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Premier Suburban Education Hub

Oldham County manages a large-scale system of 22 public schools serving a total of 12,367 students. This single-district infrastructure is well-equipped with nine elementary, four middle, and five high schools.

Leading the State in Academic Outcomes

Oldham County excels with a 97.0% graduation rate and a school score of 57.3, both well above Kentucky and national averages. The county invests $7,033 per pupil, ensuring resources are available to maintain these top-tier results.

Massive Enrollment in a Single District

The Oldham County school district is one of the largest in the region, overseeing all 12,367 students. There are no charter schools in the county, as the high-performing public district remains the primary choice for residents.

Suburban Excellence and Larger Campus Sizes

With 20 of its 22 schools located in suburban settings, the county has a distinct residential feel and a high average school size of 687 students. Oldham County High School is the largest campus, hosting 1,656 students.

Relocating for Top-Tier School Performance

Oldham County is a primary destination for families moving for school quality, given its 97% graduation rate. Real estate in Crestwood and La Grange is highly sought after due to the reputation of these local suburban campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Oldham County

via RiskByCounty

Oldham County's tornado risk stands out

Oldham County scores 55.98 on the composite risk scale, above Kentucky's state average of 44.21, with an exceptionally high tornado risk of 85.53 that ranks among the state's worst. The county's other hazards remain moderate, but the tornado threat alone elevates Oldham to significant vulnerability status.

Highest tornado risk in study area

Oldham County's composite score of 55.98 ranks it above the state average, but its tornado risk (85.53) is the most extreme among the eight counties profiled here. This places Oldham in Kentucky's highest-risk tier for severe convective storms and tornado activity.

Notably tornado-prone compared to peers

Oldham County's 85.53 tornado score vastly exceeds neighboring Nelson (69.08), Pendleton (51.81), and Owen (50.60) counties, making it the regional tornado hotspot. Its overall 55.98 composite score matches Nelson's level but reflects a narrower, more tornado-focused risk profile.

Tornadoes are the defining threat

Oldham County faces the most dangerous tornado risk (85.53) among the eight-county study area, making severe convective storms the dominant disaster concern. Flood risk (59.70) ranks moderate-to-high, while earthquake (56.11) and wildfire (16.54) exposures are secondary.

Tornado preparedness is non-negotiable

Every Oldham County household must have a tornado safety plan and identify a hardened safe room or basement shelter to withstand the county's extreme 85.53 tornado risk. Reinforced roofing, impact-resistant windows, and an active severe weather monitoring system complement comprehensive homeowners insurance as essential protections.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Oldham County

via WeatherByCounty

A Temperate Climate with High Humidity

Oldham County's 55.2°F average temperature reflects a classic temperate climate slightly warmer than the national median. The area is notably wet, receiving 52.9 inches of precipitation annually.

Cooler than the Kentucky Average

At 55.2°F, Oldham County is a full degree cooler than the Kentucky state average of 56.2°F. It represents a more moderate temperature profile within the Bluegrass region.

Wetter than Southern Kentucky Neighbors

The county receives 52.9 inches of rain, which is higher than the state average and nearby Ohio County. It also experiences 37 extreme heat days, fewer than the state's westernmost regions.

Consistent Rain and Humid Summers

Summers are warm with a July average of 76.4°F and over five weeks of days exceeding 90°F. January is chilly, averaging 31.8°F, though local snowfall data remains limited.

Manage Moisture and Summer Heat

Homeowners should focus on dehumidification and robust gutter systems to handle the high rainfall. Reliable air conditioning is a necessity for the 37 days of extreme summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Oldham County

via SoilByCounty

Oldham's High-Quality Soil Identity

Oldham County boasts an average pH of 5.99, one of the higher scores in the region compared to the state average of 5.80. While still under the national median of 6.5, this soil provides a very hospitable environment for Kentucky agriculture.

Silty and Workable

The soil mix contains 61.7% silt and 21.3% clay, balanced by 17.0% sand. This combination offers a perfect middle ground: it is easy to plow and plant while retaining enough clay to hold onto vital fertilizers.

Superior Growing Potential

Oldham's organic matter of 2.52% comfortably beats the national 2.0% average. Furthermore, its available water capacity of 0.198 in/in is significantly higher than the state average of 0.186 in/in, indicating great drought resilience.

Reliable Hydrologic Profile

The specific drainage class isn't provided, but the county's soil score of 64.2 suggests superior overall function compared to the state average of 56.2. This indicates better-than-average conditions for both farming and suburban development.

Abundance in Zone 6b

As a Zone 6b county, Oldham is perfect for growing diverse perennials, berries, and traditional row crops. The high soil quality makes this an ideal place to establish a thriving home garden or small farm.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Oldham County

via LawnByCounty

Oldham County's Standard for Green

Oldham County sits at a lawn difficulty score of 64.9, placing it right near the Kentucky state average of 66.3. Situated in Zone 6b, the area supports traditional cool-season lawns that can handle the regional shifts in temperature.

High Rainfall and Warm Summers

Oldham receives 52.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the state average and may lead to drainage issues. The 37 extreme heat days and 3,944 growing degree days create a long, active season for mowing and maintenance.

Navigating Silt and Clay

Local soils have a pH of 5.99 and a clay content of 21.3%, making them slightly acidic for optimal grass growth. Consider adding a small amount of lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 target and focus on improving drainage to handle the heavy annual rainfall.

Impressive Resilience to Drought

With only 3 weeks in drought over the last year, Oldham County lawns stay naturally greener for longer. This high moisture availability means you should focus more on preventing fungal diseases rather than worrying about constant irrigation.

Seeding for Success in 6b

Planting should occur between the April 12th frost and the October 25th frost. Kentucky Bluegrass and Turf-Type Tall Fescue are the best performers here, especially when seeded in the early fall to take advantage of the long growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oldham County's county score?
Oldham County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 57.2 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 Oldham County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Oldham County ranks #74 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 Oldham County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Oldham County is $3,454, with an effective tax rate of 0.92%. This earns Oldham County a tax score of 43.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Oldham County?
The median household income in Oldham County, Kentucky is $121,491 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Oldham County earns an income score of 98.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Oldham County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Oldham County scores 57.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #74 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Oldham 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 Oldham County with other counties side by side.

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