countyscore
60.6
County Score
Safety 86.1Water Quality 86Cost of Living 77.3

County Report Card

About Perry County, Kentucky

Beating the National Median

Perry County earns a composite score of 60.6, comfortably outperforming the national median score of 50.0. This ranking suggests a higher standard of living than much of the United States.

Outpacing the Kentucky Average

The county's overall score sits well above the Kentucky state average of 58.6. It serves as a strong regional performer, offering better overall metrics than many of its neighbors.

Safe Streets and Low Living Costs

The area excels in safety and water quality, boasting high scores of 86.1 and 86.0 respectively. Affordability is another major asset, with a cost score of 77.3 supported by a low median home value of $90,700.

Economic and Health Hurdles

The local economy faces challenges reflected in an income score of 7.5 and a health score of 29.8. Environmental risk also remains a factor for the community, with a risk score of 26.8.

A Value-Focused Choice for Residents

Perry County is an excellent fit for retirees or remote workers who prioritize personal safety and housing value. The low monthly rent of $795 makes it a highly accessible location for those on a fixed budget.

Score breakdown

Tax59.8Cost77.3Safety86.1Health29.8Schools57.3Income7.5Risk26.8Water86Weather62.8
🏛59.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠77.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼7.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡86.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤29.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡26.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱69.3
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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Nearby counties

Leslie County
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70.1
Breathitt County
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59.8
Knott County
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67.8
Letcher County
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62.3
Clay County
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Owsley County
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Harlan County
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Magoffin County
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Deep Dives

Perry County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Perry County

via TaxByCounty

Perry County taxes far below national average

Perry County's effective tax rate of 0.729% is less than one-third the national median effective rate of roughly 0.9%, placing the county in the bottom quartile nationally. Homeowners here pay a median of $661 annually in property taxes, compared to the national median of $2,690—a difference of over $2,000 per year.

Slightly above Kentucky's statewide average

Perry County's 0.729% effective rate ranks just above Kentucky's statewide average of 0.719%, putting it roughly in the middle of the state's tax burden. The county's median property tax of $661 falls well below the state average of $1,093, reflecting lower home values rather than higher rates.

Perry County competitive with eastern neighbors

Perry County's 0.729% rate sits between Pike County (0.727%) and Powell County (0.582%) in the eastern coalfield region. Despite similar rates, Perry homeowners pay less annually ($661) than Pike County residents ($758) due to lower median home values of $90,700 versus $104,200.

What Perry County homeowners actually pay

On the median home value of $90,700, Perry County homeowners pay approximately $661 in annual property taxes. If financed with a mortgage, total tax obligations rise to around $945 when including applicable fees and assessments.

Many Perry County homeowners overpay

Reassessments happen regularly, but outdated valuations can inflate tax bills significantly. Perry County homeowners should review their assessments and consider filing an appeal if their property value seems inflated compared to recent sales in their area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Perry County

via CostByCounty

Perry County rents eat bigger slice of income

Renters in Perry County spend 21.1% of their income on housing, compared to the national average of roughly 18%. While close to the national norm, this gap widens when you consider Perry's median household income of $45,261—nearly $30,000 below the nation's $74,755 average, making every rent dollar stretch thinner.

Above average housing burden statewide

Perry County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.1% ranks above Kentucky's average of 17%, placing it among the state's less affordable counties for renters. The county's median rent of $795 runs slightly higher than Kentucky's state average of $771, compounding the affordability challenge.

Perry stands middle ground regionally

Perry County's $795 monthly rent falls between nearby Rockcastle County ($678) and Pike County ($837), though Perry's household income of $45,261 puts it closer to Pike's struggling renters. Among its eastern Kentucky peers, Perry occupies a tighter middle position on the affordability spectrum.

Housing claims over one-fifth of income

Perry renters pay $795 monthly while homeowners carry a $548 mortgage—a roughly 2-to-1 ratio favoring ownership. With median household income at $45,261 annually, renters dedicate 21.1% of gross income to housing, while homeowners spend about 14.6%, reflecting Kentucky's traditional ownership advantage.

Homeownership offers Perry affordability relief

If you're priced out of renting in Perry, homeownership becomes more viable: median home values sit at $90,700 with monthly costs of $548, making it one of the state's more achievable ownership markets. Consider whether buying—even with modest median income—could provide the stability and cost relief renting doesn't currently offer.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Perry County

via IncomeByCounty

Perry trails U.S. median by $29K

Perry County's median household income of $45,261 falls nearly 40% below the U.S. median of $74,755. This income gap reflects broader economic challenges in the region, placing Perry among lower-earning counties nationally.

Below Kentucky average income

Perry County ranks below Kentucky's state median of $55,909, earning $10,648 less per household. This positions Perry in the lower half of Kentucky's 120 counties for household income.

Lowest earner in Appalachian cluster

Perry's $45,261 income trails nearby Pike County ($42,179) and Powell County ($39,811), making it one of the region's stronger earners—though all three struggle against state benchmarks. The entire Appalachian corridor faces similar economic headwinds.

Rent consumes one-fifth of income

At 21.1%, Perry's rent-to-income ratio sits near the affordable threshold, meaning renters spend just over one-fifth of income on housing. With median home values of $90,700, homeownership remains within reach for many households.

Start small, build steadily here

Perry households can build wealth through employer retirement plans and low-cost index funds, even on modest incomes. Local nonprofits and community banks often offer financial literacy programs designed for exactly this income range.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Perry County

via CrimeByCounty

Perry County outperforms national safety averages

Perry County's total crime rate of 312.8 per 100K is nearly eight times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a stellar safety score of 99.5 out of 100. This data reflects a exceptionally secure environment compared to the rest of the country.

A leader in Kentucky safety rankings

With a total crime rate far below the Kentucky average of 786.2, Perry stands as one of the safer regions in the Commonwealth. Its 99.5 safety score exceeds the state average of 98.8. Two local agencies actively report these figures to maintain transparency.

Regional comparisons show local security strengths

Perry’s crime rate of 312.8 per 100K remains lower than nearby Pike County at 390.0 and Powell County at 366.7. This positioning highlights Perry as a security leader in the Eastern Kentucky coalfields. Residents enjoy some of the lowest crime levels in the immediate area.

Understanding the local crime landscape

Property crime accounts for the majority of local incidents at 266.6 per 100K, while violent crime remains very low at 46.2. These rates mean the average resident is highly unlikely to encounter violent offenses. The total numbers are driven by minor property disputes rather than serious threats.

Maintaining a secure Perry County home

Even in a safe area, local residents should remain vigilant about locking doors and installing exterior lighting. Small steps like home security systems further preserve the county's low property crime rate. Active community awareness keeps these safety scores high year after year.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Perry County

via HealthByCounty

Perry County's health gap widens

At 65.7 years, Perry County's life expectancy falls 8.8 years short of the U.S. average of 74.5 years. More than one in four residents report poor or fair health (26.1%), compared to the national rate of 17.9%, signaling serious underlying health challenges in the community.

One of Kentucky's shortest lifespans

Perry County ranks among the bottom tier of Kentucky counties, with a life expectancy 6.5 years below the state average of 72.2 years. The county's 26.1% poor/fair health rate also exceeds the state's typical burden of chronic illness.

Struggling compared to regional peers

Perry County's life expectancy of 65.7 years trails all neighboring counties—Pike (69.3), Powell (68.6), and Breathitt counties significantly outpace it. The county's poor/fair health rate of 26.1% is also higher than most surrounding counties, suggesting acute health disadvantages.

Good primary care access masks gaps

Perry County boasts 115 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—well above the national average of 65—yet only 6.6% of residents lack insurance, below the state average of 7.0%. Despite strong provider capacity, the stubborn health disparities suggest barriers beyond availability, such as affordability, transportation, or preventive care uptake.

Ensure you have coverage today

While Perry County's uninsured rate is lower than the state average, 6.6% of residents still go without health insurance. Check your coverage now at healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or employer options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Perry County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Dual-District Network in Perry County

Perry County maintains an education infrastructure of 15 public schools serving 4,623 total students. This network includes eight elementary schools and three high schools managed across two separate districts. The system provides a blend of town-based and rural learning environments for the community.

High Graduation Rates Above National Standards

Perry County schools achieve a 93.4% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national 87% average. While the per-pupil expenditure of $6,919 is below the $13,000 national benchmark, it aligns with the Kentucky state average of $6,894. The county's school score of 55.1 closely mirrors the state average of 55.3.

Largest Districts and School Options

The Perry County district is the largest provider, educating 3,593 students across 10 schools. Hazard Independent manages five schools with a total enrollment of 1,030 students. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county's public system.

Rural Roots and Mid-Sized Campuses

With 10 rural schools and five town-based campuses, Perry County offers a traditional mountain education setting. The largest school is Perry County Central High with 877 students, while the average school size across the county is 356. Students attend schools ranging from large high schools to smaller primary centers like Robert W Combs Elementary.

Finding a Home Near Perry Schools

Families looking for strong graduation outcomes and a choice between independent and county districts should explore the local housing market. School quality remains a primary driver for home values in the Hazard area. Consider proximity to the largest elementary hubs when searching for your next residence.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Perry County

via RiskByCounty

Perry County's disaster risk stands above average

Perry County scores 73.22 on the composite risk scale, placing it well above the national median and significantly higher than Kentucky's state average of 44.21. This relatively low rating masks concentrated hazards in specific disaster types that warrant attention from residents and property owners.

High-risk county in Kentucky ranking

Among Kentucky's 120 counties, Perry ranks in the upper half for overall disaster risk, driven primarily by exceptional flood and wildfire exposure. The county's 73.22 composite score reflects vulnerabilities that exceed most of its neighbors in the Appalachian region.

Perry among the highest-risk counties nearby

Perry County's 73.22 composite score significantly exceeds neighboring Powell County (31.20) and Rockcastle County (36.13), positioning it as a disaster risk outlier in the region. Only Pike County to the east (87.88) carries comparable or greater overall risk from natural hazards.

Flooding and wildfires dominate Perry's hazards

Flood risk scores 86.29—among the highest in Kentucky—making it Perry's most pressing natural disaster threat, followed closely by wildfire risk at 77.93. Tornado risk (33.91) and earthquake risk (49.62) are comparatively lower but still warrant baseline preparedness, particularly for older structures and mobile homes.

Flood insurance essential for Perry County homes

Given Perry's flood risk score of 86.29, homeowners and renters should prioritize flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, especially if properties are in or near floodplain areas. Wildfire-prone properties should clear vegetation within 30 feet of structures and ensure proper roof and gutter maintenance to reduce ember damage during fire season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Perry County

via WeatherByCounty

Typical Mid-Latitude Temperate Climate

Perry County's 56.0°F average annual temperature is very close to the national median for mid-latitude states. Its 50.5 inches of precipitation aligns with the humid subtropical transition zone.

Aligns Closely with State Averages

The county's annual average of 56.0°F is nearly identical to the Kentucky state average of 56.2°F. Rainfall also tracks closely with the state average of 50.6 inches.

Snowier than Southern Border Counties

Perry County receives 8.8 inches of snow annually, significantly more than the 1.4 inches recorded in nearby Pike County. It also experiences more extreme heat days than neighboring Powell County.

Distinct Seasons with Measurable Snow

Summers feature 31 days above 90°F, while winters bring an average of 8.8 inches of snow. January temperatures average 34.2°F, making for a distinct cold season.

Seasonal Versatility is Essential

Residents need both snow removal tools for the nearly 9 inches of annual snowfall and efficient cooling for July heat. Maintaining roofs for 50 inches of rain is a top priority.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Perry County

via SoilByCounty

A Rugged Mountain Soil Profile

Perry County’s mountain terrain presents a unique challenge, as specific taxonomic and pH data are currently limited for the region. While we lack a precise pH measurement, nearby mountain counties typically trend more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This land requires careful local testing to understand its specific chemical makeup.

Navigating Uncertain Soil Textures

Precise percentages for sand, silt, and clay are unavailable for Perry County's mapped areas. However, the region's steep topography often leads to thin, rocky soils that differ significantly from the deep loams of Western Kentucky. Gardeners should expect varied workability depending on their specific elevation and proximity to the valley floor.

Evaluating High-Elevation Growing Potential

With available water capacity and organic matter data currently unrecorded, the county's relative fertility remains a local mystery. While the state average for organic matter sits at 3.55%, mountain soils often rely heavily on forest leaf litter for their nutrient baseline. Local growers benefit from adding compost to bridge the gap in these unmapped areas.

Managing Water in Steep Terrain

Drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not formally established for the county's primary acreage. In this vertical landscape, runoff typically moves quickly, making water retention a higher priority than drainage for most gardeners. Building projects must account for this rapid movement to prevent erosion and foundation issues.

Hardy Plants for the Appalachian Foothills

Perry County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, offering a relatively long growing season for its mountain climate. Perennials like blueberries and native serviceberries thrive here, especially when you supplement the soil with organic material. Start your garden today to discover what your specific microclimate can produce.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Perry County

via LawnByCounty

Easy Growing in the Appalachian Mountains

Perry County earns a lawn difficulty score of 69.3, outperforming both the national median of 50.0 and the Kentucky state average of 66.3. Situated in hardiness zone 7a, the region offers a favorable environment for consistent turf growth.

Abundant Rainfall Fuels Thick Turf

With 50.5 inches of annual precipitation, the county sits at the top end of the ideal range for grass health. Yard owners manage 31 extreme heat days and 3,922 growing degree days, requiring a focused mowing schedule through the peak summer months.

Managing Unmapped Mountain Soils

Specific soil texture and pH data are currently unavailable for this area, but local growers typically find success by testing for regional acidity. Proper drainage is essential in this terrain to prevent waterlogging during the heavy rainfall seasons.

A Year of Reliable Moisture

Lawns remained resilient over the past year with only one week recorded in drought conditions. This stability minimizes the need for supplemental irrigation, though maintaining deep root systems is still a wise practice for future dry spells.

Timing Your Mountain Lawn Success

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in zone 7a when seeded around the last frost date of April 19. Start your preparations early to ensure a strong root system before the first frost arrives in late October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Perry County's county score?
Perry County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 60.6 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 Perry County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Perry County ranks #53 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 Perry County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Perry County is $661, with an effective tax rate of 0.73%. This earns Perry County a tax score of 59.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Perry County?
The median household income in Perry County, Kentucky is $45,261 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Perry County earns an income score of 7.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Perry County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Perry County scores 60.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #53 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Perry 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 Perry 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.