countyscore
57.1
County Score
Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 76.7Property Tax 69

County Report Card

About Pulaski County, Kentucky

Solidly Above the Median

Pulaski County earns a 57.1 composite score, outperforming the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced lifestyle that sits well within the upper half of U.S. counties.

Competitive Within Kentucky

The county's score of 57.1 is slightly below the state average of 58.6. Despite this, it remains a major regional hub with strengths that rival many higher-scoring areas.

Strong Schools and Infrastructure

The county excels in water quality with a score of 86.0 and maintains a solid school score of 66.1. Tax favorability is also a highlight, as residents benefit from a tax score of 69.0.

Managing Environmental Risks

Environmental risk and health scores are lower than average, at 20.9 and 31.6 respectively. Economic mobility also remains a challenge with an income score of 16.7.

Great for Growing Families

Pulaski County is well-suited for families who prioritize quality education and reliable utilities. It offers a suburban-rural mix with a median home value of $156,300 that remains accessible for middle-class earners.

Score breakdown

Tax69Cost63Safety64.9Health31.6Schools66.1Income16.7Risk20.9Water86Weather76.7
🏛69
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠63
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼16.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡64.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤31.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓66.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡20.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤76.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨49
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.2
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

McCreary County
Kentucky
69.1
Wayne County
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63
Laurel County
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Lincoln County
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Rockcastle County
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Casey County
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Russell County
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Whitley County
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Deep Dives

Pulaski County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pulaski County

via TaxByCounty

Pulaski County taxes far below national median

Pulaski County's effective tax rate of 0.646% is substantially lower than the national median of roughly 0.9%, placing it in the bottom quartile nationwide. The median property tax of $1,010 remains well below the national median of $2,690, even as Pulaski's median home value of $156,300 approaches the national average.

Pulaski County slightly below state average

Pulaski County's 0.646% effective rate falls below Kentucky's statewide average of 0.719%, ranking it in the lower-middle tier of state counties. The county's median property tax of $1,010 closely approaches the state average of $1,093, reflecting its position as a moderate-value community.

Pulaski County moderate among central Kentucky

Pulaski County's 0.646% rate sits between Rockcastle County's very low 0.481% and Russell County's 0.588%, placing it in the higher range of the region. At $1,010 annually, Pulaski's median property tax is the highest among its immediate neighbors, driven by higher median home values.

Pulaski County homeowners pay this annually

On a median home value of $156,300, Pulaski County homeowners pay approximately $1,010 per year in property taxes. With mortgage assessments included, the total obligation climbs to around $1,158 annually.

Pulaski homeowners should verify assessments

Many Pulaski County homeowners may be overassessed, particularly if their property hasn't been reassessed in several years or recently dropped in market value. Filing an appeal based on comparable home sales in your neighborhood can help reduce an inflated assessment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pulaski County

via CostByCounty

Pulaski balances affordability reasonably well

Pulaski County renters spend 19.7% of their $50,943 income on housing, modestly above the national average of roughly 18% but closer than most regional peers. With median rent at $835 and household income above the regional average, Pulaski demonstrates relative stability in the eastern Kentucky housing market.

Slightly above state average for rents

Pulaski County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.7% exceeds Kentucky's 17% average, but the county's median household income of $50,943 is above state norms, providing more cushion than struggling neighbors. Median rent of $835 runs 8% higher than the state average, reflecting Pulaski's relative economic strength.

Mid-range costs, above-average income

Pulaski County's $835 rent ties with Pike County as the regional high, but Pulaski's $50,943 median income outpaces all comparison counties except Robertson and Rowan. This income advantage makes Pulaski's housing more manageable despite higher absolute rent prices.

Renters and owners both reasonably positioned

Renters in Pulaski spend $835 monthly (19.7% of income), while homeowners carry $687 mortgages at 16.2% of household income—a modest 3.5-point gap favoring ownership. Median home value of $156,300 reflects Pulaski's relative economic strength compared to neighboring eastern Kentucky counties.

Pulaski offers stable middle ground

If you're considering eastern Kentucky, Pulaski County offers above-average income potential and moderate rental costs that align with regional norms better than struggling Pike or Powell counties. The county's $156,300 median home value and 16.2% owner cost-to-income ratio also make homeownership competitive for those ready to build equity.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pulaski County

via IncomeByCounty

Pulaski earns closer to U.S. median

Pulaski County's median household income of $50,943 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 32%—a smaller gap than many peers. At $23,812 below national average, Pulaski performs relatively better regionally.

Mid-range earner for Kentucky

Pulaski's median household income of $50,943 falls just slightly below Kentucky's state average of $55,909. This near-average standing positions Pulaski solidly in the middle tier of Kentucky's county economy.

Clear earner among Appalachian peers

At $50,943, Pulaski outearns Pike County ($42,179) and Powell County ($39,811) significantly, reflecting more diversified economic activity. Pulaski's stronger position reflects Fort Knox military presence and regional commerce.

Rent-to-income nears ideal threshold

Pulaski's 19.7% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the 20% affordability sweet spot, offering renters reasonable housing cost burden. With median home values of $156,300, homeownership requires careful planning but remains achievable.

Invest beyond the basics now

Pulaski households in solid financial footing should diversify beyond employer plans into taxable brokerage accounts and real estate. This income level supports both employer retirement benefits and strategic additional investing.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pulaski County

via CrimeByCounty

Pulaski County maintains a safe profile

Pulaski County reports a total crime rate of 819.7 per 100K, which is still much lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a respectable safety score of 98.7. Seven reporting agencies contribute to this comprehensive dataset.

Aligning with Kentucky safety norms

While the Kentucky average crime rate is 786.2, Pulaski sits slightly higher at 819.7 per 100K. This results in a safety score just below the state average of 98.8. Law enforcement continues to monitor these trends to ensure community stability.

Comparing Pulaski to nearby counties

Pulaski’s crime rate of 819.7 is higher than many neighbors, but it stays lower than Rowan County's 892.0. This makes Pulaski a busier hub for its region, yet it remains significantly safer than national urban centers. Seven local agencies work together to manage public safety concerns.

A look at property and violent crime

Property crime drives the local rate at 716.9 per 100K, while violent crime sits at 102.8. Both categories stay well below national figures, specifically property crime which is a third of the U.S. average. Most local issues revolve around theft rather than physical harm.

Strategic protection for Pulaski properties

With property crime being the primary concern, residents should focus on securing sheds and vehicles. Visible security measures like alarms can effectively discourage local theft and burglary. Staying connected with neighbors is a proven way to reduce crime incidents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pulaski County

via HealthByCounty

Pulaski County edges toward national average

At 72.1 years, Pulaski County's life expectancy nears the U.S. average of 74.5 years—performing better than many neighboring counties. Still, 25.3% of residents report poor or fair health, well above the national average of 17.9%.

Right in line with Kentucky

Pulaski County's life expectancy of 72.1 years essentially matches Kentucky's 72.2-year state average, placing it at the midpoint of state health outcomes. The 25.3% poor/fair health rate aligns with broader state trends, reflecting typical chronic disease burdens across Kentucky.

Among the region's healthier counties

Pulaski County's life expectancy of 72.1 years ranks among the best in its immediate region, outpacing Pike (69.3), Powell (68.6), and Rockcastle (69.2). The 25.3% poor/fair health rate is moderate compared to neighbors, suggesting better population health management.

Moderate provider access, higher uninsured

Pulaski County has 72 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, above the national average of 65, and 482 mental health providers per 100K. However, 7.9% of residents are uninsured—the highest rate in the county cohort—leaving nearly 1 in 12 Pulaski County residents vulnerable to medical costs.

Nearly 8% still lack coverage

Pulaski County's uninsured rate of 7.9% is above the state average of 7.0%, meaning hundreds of residents navigate the health system without protection. Check your coverage status and explore marketplace plans, Medicaid, or employer options at healthcare.gov today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pulaski County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Major Educational Hub in Pulaski

Pulaski County hosts 19 public schools serving a large student population of 10,206. The infrastructure is distributed across 11 elementary, three middle, and five high schools. Three distinct school districts operate within the county, offering families multiple educational paths.

Exceptional Graduation and Competitive Scores

The county achieves an impressive 97.8% graduation rate, far exceeding the national average of 87%. With a composite school score of 57.2, Pulaski performs better than the Kentucky state average of 55.3. Investment remains efficient, with per-pupil spending at $6,808, nearly identical to the state average.

Three Districts Serving the Community

Pulaski County is the largest district, educating 8,115 students across 14 schools. Somerset Independent serves 1,615 students, while Science Hill Independent operates a single school with 476 students. No charter schools exist in the county, maintaining a focus on traditional public education.

Substantial Campus Sizes and Town Locales

Most schools are located in town settings, with 11 town-based campuses and eight rural ones. The average school size is quite large at 567 students, led by Southwestern High School with 1,265 students. Even elementary schools like Southern Elementary are sizeable, enrolling 655 students.

Find Your Home Near Top Schools

The high academic performance and variety of districts make Pulaski County a top choice for families. Whether you prefer the town-center schools of Somerset or the larger campuses of the county district, there is a neighborhood to match your educational goals. Strong graduation rates continue to bolster the local real estate market.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pulaski County

via RiskByCounty

Pulaski County faces elevated national disaster risk

Pulaski County's composite risk score of 79.13 substantially exceeds both the national median and Kentucky's state average of 44.21, placing it in the relatively low risk category but with notable exposure. This reflects pronounced vulnerability in multiple hazard types, particularly earthquakes and tornadoes.

Pulaski ranks among Kentucky's higher-risk counties

Pulaski County's score of 79.13 places it in the upper half of Kentucky's 120 counties for composite disaster risk, reflecting the county's location in a seismically active region. The county's earthquake risk in particular stands out as a defining vulnerability statewide.

Pulaski's risk profile stands out in central Kentucky

Pulaski County's 79.13 composite score exceeds nearby Rockcastle County (36.13) and Russell County (31.87) by a substantial margin, though it trails Pike County (87.88) and Perry County (73.22) to the east. This makes Pulaski a moderate-to-high risk outlier within its immediate geographic region.

Earthquakes and tornadoes dominate Pulaski's hazards

Pulaski County faces significant earthquake risk at 83.62—exceptionally high statewide—alongside tornado risk of 82.98, making these dual threats the county's defining vulnerabilities. Flood risk (81.55) is also notable, while wildfire (64.15) and hurricane (56.20) risks remain secondary concerns.

Earthquake and tornado preparedness critical for Pulaski

Pulaski County residents should ensure homes meet current seismic building codes, particularly older structures; secure heavy furniture to walls and know safe shelter locations during earthquakes. A comprehensive homeowners or renters insurance policy is essential, and families should maintain a detailed disaster kit with supplies for both earthquake and tornado scenarios.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pulaski County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Humid Southern Climate

Pulaski County's 58.3°F average temperature is well above the national median, signaling a warmer southern profile. It receives a heavy 51.6 inches of annual precipitation.

Warmer than the State Average

The county is significantly warmer than the Kentucky average of 56.2°F, with its 58.3°F annual mean. It ranks among the warmer counties in the southern tier of the state.

High Precipitation with Moderate Snow

With 51.6 inches of rain, Pulaski is wetter than both the state average and nearby Perry County. It also maintains a higher January average than its northern neighbors.

Hot Summers and Mild Winters

July averages a warm 77.7°F, though extreme heat days are moderate at 21 per year. Winters remain relatively mild at 39.6°F, despite a surprising 8.2 inches of annual snow.

Balanced Seasonal Infrastructure

Expect higher cooling costs during the 77.7°F summer months. Residents should also keep winter supplies ready for the 8 inches of snow that occurs despite the warm annual average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pulaski County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Silts Near Lake Cumberland

Pulaski County features an average soil pH of 5.32, making it significantly more acidic than both the state average of 5.80 and the national median of 6.5. This low pH profile suggests that many traditional crops will require lime applications to thrive. The county earns an overall soil score of 49.0, reflecting these chemical challenges.

A Silt-Dominant Texture Profile

With a composition of 50.3% silt and 19.8% clay, this soil offers a smooth texture that holds nutrients better than sandy soils. The 27.6% sand content helps maintain some structure, though the high silt can make the surface prone to crusting after heavy rains. Proper tilling and management are needed to maintain its workability.

Steady Nutrients and Water Storage

The soil contains 3.73% organic matter, which sits just above the Kentucky state average of 3.55%. Its available water capacity is 0.180 in/in, nearly matching the state benchmark of 0.186. This combination provides a stable environment for roots, ensuring that moisture remains available even during dry spells.

Monitoring Moisture on the Plateau

While specific drainage classes are not listed, the high silt and moderate clay content suggest the soil retains water effectively. Gardeners should watch for slow drainage in low-lying areas, which can be typical for silty-clay mixes. Proper drainage planning is essential for large-scale building or extensive landscaping projects.

Productive Gardening in Zone 7a

Pulaski County’s Zone 7a climate is perfect for heat-loving crops like tomatoes and peppers once the soil pH is managed. The acidity makes it a natural home for berries, which thrive in these conditions. With a little lime and a lot of sunshine, your Pulaski garden will flourish.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pulaski County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Greater Challenges in Pulaski

Pulaski County presents more challenges than its neighbors, with a lawn difficulty score of 56.2. While this is still above the national median, it is lower than the Kentucky state average of 66.3.

Long Growing Season with Moderate Heat

The county records 4,444 growing degree days, indicating a very active season for grass growth and mowing. While the 51.6 inches of rain is healthy, the 21 days of extreme heat require careful afternoon watering to prevent wilting.

Correcting Highly Acidic Soil

At a pH of 5.32, the soil here is significantly more acidic than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range. The 19.8% clay content can lead to compaction, so regular aeration and lime treatments are essential for lawn success.

Five Weeks of Dry Conditions

Pulaski experienced five weeks of drought over the past year, requiring more attention to irrigation than other Kentucky counties. Using rain barrels or smart controllers can help manage your lawn during these increasingly frequent dry spells.

Start Early for Strong Turf

With a long growing window between April 5 and October 30, you have ample time to establish a lawn. Choose drought-resistant turf varieties like tall fescue to help manage the acidic soil and occasional dry periods.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pulaski County's county score?
Pulaski County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 57.1 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 Pulaski County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Pulaski County ranks #75 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 Pulaski County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Pulaski County is $1,010, with an effective tax rate of 0.65%. This earns Pulaski County a tax score of 69/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pulaski County?
The median household income in Pulaski County, Kentucky is $50,943 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pulaski County earns an income score of 16.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pulaski County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Pulaski County scores 57.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #75 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Pulaski 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 Pulaski 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.