countyscore
41.8
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 69.3Weather & Climate 64.9

County Report Card

About Warren County, Kentucky

Trailing the National Median

Warren County registers a composite score of 41.9, which falls below the national median of 50.0. While it offers urban amenities, certain risk and safety factors drag its overall index lower than the U.S. average.

Behind the Kentucky Average

The county's overall score of 41.9 sits well below the Kentucky state average of 58.6. Despite its economic growth, it faces steeper challenges in safety and environmental risk than many rural peers.

Clean Water and Low Taxes

Warren County excels in water quality with a high score of 86.0 and maintains a business-friendly tax score of 69.3. Residents benefit from an effective tax rate of just 0.642%, which is quite competitive.

Safety and Risk Constraints

The county struggles with a safety score of 9.8 and a risk score of 11.5, indicating significant room for improvement in community security. Additionally, the cost score of 28.5 reflects a tightening housing market where median home values reach $242,600.

Best for High-Income Professionals

Warren County suits professionals who value career opportunities and can afford the higher housing costs. It is an urban-leaning environment for those who prioritize infrastructure and low taxes over rural tranquility.

Score breakdown

Tax69.3Cost28.5Safety9.8Health49.7Schools57.8Income53.5Risk11.5Water86Weather64.9
🏛69.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠28.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼53.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡9.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤49.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡11.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤64.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨54.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.7
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

Edmonson County
Kentucky
65.5
Simpson County
Kentucky
48.2
Allen County
Kentucky
64.3
Butler County
Kentucky
67.9
Logan County
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Barren County
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Grayson County
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Hart County
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63.6

Deep Dives

Warren County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Warren County

via TaxByCounty

Warren County taxes: Well below national average

Warren County's effective tax rate of 0.642% ranks in the lowest quartile nationally, significantly below the national median of 0.84%. Homeowners here pay $1,558 annually—less than 60% of the $2,690 national median property tax.

Among Kentucky's lowest-tax counties

Warren County ranks in the bottom third of Kentucky's 120 counties with a 0.642% effective rate, well below the state average of 0.719%. Despite higher home values here, the median tax of $1,558 exceeds the state median of $1,093 only because homes are worth more.

Lower taxes than surrounding counties

Warren County's 0.642% rate edges below Union County's 0.787% and Washington County's 0.716%, making it one of the region's tax-friendly jurisdictions. Only Wayne County at 0.578% offers lower rates in the immediate area.

Median home triggers $1,558 yearly tax

With the median home valued at $242,600, Warren County homeowners pay approximately $1,558 in annual property taxes. Including mortgage escrow, the typical bill climbs to around $1,624.

Appeals can reduce your assessment

Even in lower-tax counties, overassessments happen—many Warren County homeowners qualify for reductions they don't claim. A simple appeal process lets you challenge your assessment and reclaim money already paid.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Warren County

via CostByCounty

Warren County: pricier than the nation

Warren County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% edges above the national standard, reflecting higher housing costs relative to local income. At $963 monthly rent against a median household income of $64,801, renters here spend a slightly larger share of earnings on housing than the typical American household.

Among Kentucky's higher-cost counties

Warren County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Kentucky's state average of 17.0%, making it one of the pricier markets in the commonwealth. The county's higher housing costs reflect its role as a regional economic hub, centered on Bowling Green.

A premium within the region

Warren County's $963 rent significantly outpaces Union County ($787) and Washington County ($696), reflecting stronger demand and a larger urban center. Home values also climb here, with median prices near $242,600—well above most neighboring counties.

Nearly 18% of income to rent

Warren County renters dedicate roughly $963 monthly—about 17.8% of median income—to housing, leaving $4,400 for other expenses. Homeowners invest more substantially, with monthly costs averaging $1,094 on properties valued around $242,600.

Warren offers growth but at a cost

Moving to Warren County means trading affordability for access to Bowling Green's jobs and services—a worthwhile tradeoff for many. Compare this county's 17.8% housing burden against lower-cost options like Washington County before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Warren County

via IncomeByCounty

Warren County trails national earnings benchmark

Warren County's median household income of $64,801 sits about $9,954 below the U.S. median of $74,755, representing a 13% gap. Despite the shortfall, Warren outperforms many rural and post-industrial counties nationwide.

Top earners in Kentucky

Warren County ranks among Kentucky's stronger income performers, with a median of $64,801 topping the state average by $8,892. Only a handful of Kentucky counties match Warren's earning power and economic momentum.

Clear income leader in the region

Warren County's $64,801 median substantially exceeds surrounding counties like Union ($60,989), Washington ($59,762), and Wayne ($41,933), but falls behind Woodford County ($80,006). This positions Warren as a regional economic hub supporting both middle-class stability and upward mobility.

Housing costs rising but manageable

Warren County's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio remains below the 30% affordability ceiling, though it ranks higher than neighbors, reflecting its premium housing market. The median home value of $242,600 represents a significant investment but aligns with regional property appreciation trends.

Leverage Warren's growing prosperity

Warren County households earning above the median have genuine opportunities to build wealth through home equity, retirement savings, and local investment. Prioritize maximizing employer 401(k) matches and exploring property investments in this appreciating market.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Warren County

via CrimeByCounty

Warren County exceeds national crime averages

Warren County reports a total crime rate of 2,802.5 per 100,000 residents, which is roughly 17% higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, it maintains a safety score of 95.6 out of 100.

Above average activity for the Bluegrass State

With a crime rate of 2,802.5, Warren County sits well above the Kentucky state average of 786.2 per 100,000 residents. Its safety score of 95.6 falls slightly below the state average score of 98.8.

High activity compared to regional peers

Warren County functions as a major regional hub, resulting in significantly more reported crime than nearby Woodford County’s rate of 1,060.1. Increased density and traffic often lead to higher incident reporting in this part of the state.

Property crime drives local safety concerns

The local property crime rate of 2,588.9 per 100,000 residents is significantly higher than the national property average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is less frequent at 213.6, remaining below the national violent crime average of 369.8.

Secure your property in Warren County

Given that property crimes represent the bulk of local incidents, installing a home security system and visible cameras is highly recommended. Simple steps like locking vehicles can significantly reduce the risk of opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Warren County

via HealthByCounty

Warren County's life expectancy shines

Warren County residents live an average of 75.3 years—well above the U.S. average of 71.4 years, representing a 3.9-year longevity advantage. With only 19.3% reporting poor or fair health, Warren County outperforms the national average of 21%, indicating both length and quality of life.

Among Kentucky's healthiest counties

At 75.3 years, Warren County's life expectancy ranks it in Kentucky's top tier, a full 3.1 years ahead of the state average of 72.2 years. This performance places Warren among the state's consistently strongest health outcomes.

Regional health leader

Warren County boasts the second-highest life expectancy in its region after Woodford County (76.7 years), and significantly outpaces neighboring Union County (73.3 years) and Washington County (74.2 years). The county's robust provider network—66 primary care providers and 359 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—reflects strong healthcare infrastructure.

Good coverage, excellent access

Warren County's 9.2% uninsured rate edges slightly above Kentucky's 7.0% average, yet the county compensates with outstanding provider availability at 66 primary care and 359 mental health providers per 100,000 residents. This rich healthcare landscape ensures residents can access the care they need, when they need it.

Maximize your health advantage

Warren County's uninsured residents should explore coverage options at healthcare.gov or through their employer—with 9.2% lacking insurance, enrollment could prevent costly gaps in care. Local community health centers and the Medicaid program can help connect uninsured residents to Warren's excellent provider network.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Warren County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expanding Education in a Growing Hub

Warren County features a robust network of 45 public schools serving a large population of 22,175 students. The infrastructure includes 21 elementary and 13 high schools spread across two distinct school districts. The county also offers 10 alternative schools to meet diverse student needs.

Strong Success Metrics Amid Efficient Spending

A graduation rate of 96.0% puts Warren County well ahead of both the state and national benchmarks. Per-pupil expenditure is efficient at $6,378, which is lower than the Kentucky average of $6,894. Despite the lower spending per head, the county maintains a solid school score of 55.3.

Dual Districts Serve the Bowling Green Area

Warren County district is the larger provider with 17,799 students, while Bowling Green Independent serves an additional 4,376 students. No charter schools exist in either district, meaning the entire student body is enrolled in traditional public programs. Both districts manage significant enrollment while maintaining high graduation standards.

A Diverse Mix of City and Rural Schools

The county offers a diverse locale mix with 28 schools in city settings and 15 in rural areas. Large high schools like South Warren High, which enrolls 1,494 students, create a bustling collegiate atmosphere. Average school size is 569 students, reflecting the more urban nature of the Bowling Green region.

Explore Real Estate in a Top District

For families seeking variety, Warren County offers everything from large urban high schools to quiet rural elementary campuses. The region's strong graduation rates make it a premier destination for Kentucky homebuyers. Use school performance data to guide your search for the perfect neighborhood.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Warren County

via RiskByCounty

Warren County faces above-average disaster risk

Warren County's composite risk score of 88.49 places it in the Relatively Moderate category and significantly above the national average for natural disasters. This county experiences elevated exposure across multiple hazard types, particularly tornadoes and flooding.

Highest-risk county in Kentucky

Warren County's score of 88.49 far exceeds Kentucky's average of 44.21, making it the state's most disaster-prone county. Its tornado risk of 93.10 and flood risk of 87.34 are among the highest in Kentucky.

Dramatically riskier than surrounding areas

Warren County's risk score of 88.49 dwarfs nearby Edmonson, Hart, and Simpson counties' much lower profiles. Even Whitley County (62.21) to the southeast carries significantly less risk, making Warren's hazard exposure notably regional.

Tornadoes and floods dominate Warren's threats

Tornado risk of 93.10 is among Kentucky's highest; Warren sits in a storm corridor vulnerable to supercell development. Flood risk of 87.34 reflects the county's proximity to creeks and seasonal wet conditions that can trigger rapid overflow.

Invest in comprehensive flood and storm coverage

Warren County residents need flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program—standard policies don't cover water damage. Identify safe rooms or shelters for tornado events and consider impact-resistant windows and reinforced roofing in high-exposure areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Warren County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Exceptionally Humid

Warren County’s 59.1°F average temperature is significantly higher than the national median. It receives 51.0 inches of precipitation, placing it among the wetter regions in the country.

One of Kentucky's Warmest Areas

The county's 59.1°F average is nearly three degrees warmer than the Kentucky state average of 56.2°F. It ranks as a climate leader for heat in the Commonwealth.

Intense Heat and Surprising Snow

Warren sees 47 extreme heat days, far more than any of its northern neighbors. Despite the heat, it still averages 8.3 inches of snow, nearly as much as Rowan County.

A Summer of Extreme Heat

July is very hot with an average of 79.7°F and a total of 47 days over 90°F across the year. Winters are mild with a January average of 37.2°F, though snow is still common.

Prepare for Long Heatwaves

Air conditioning systems must be robust enough to handle seven weeks of 90-degree weather. Keep a snow shovel ready for the 8.3 inches of accumulation that typically falls during winter.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Warren County

via SoilByCounty

Warren County's Slightly Acidic Foundation

The average soil pH in Warren County is 5.82, which sits just above the state average of 5.8 but below the national 6.5 median. This mildly acidic profile is common across Kentucky's limestone-rich regions and influences nutrient availability for crops.

A Silt-Heavy Composition

The soil is dominated by 64.2% silt and 21.7% clay, creating a smooth texture with high nutrient retention. With only 14.1% sand, these soils can be difficult to work when wet and are susceptible to surface compaction.

Steady Moisture and Moderate Organic Matter

Organic matter content stands at 2.34%, exceeding the national average of 2.0% but trailing the Kentucky state average of 3.55%. The Available Water Capacity of 0.186 in/in exactly matches the state benchmark, providing reliable moisture for regional agriculture.

Navigating a Moderate Soil Score

Warren County earns a soil score of 54.6, which is slightly lower than the state average of 56.2. The high silt and clay levels mean growers must manage drainage carefully to prevent waterlogging in low-lying areas.

Thriving in Zone 7a

Hardiness Zone 7a allows Warren County gardeners to grow everything from tomatoes to tender perennials. The reliable water capacity makes this an excellent environment to start a productive backyard garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Warren County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Conditions for Warren County Lawns

Warren County scores a 53.7 for lawn difficulty, making it one of the more challenging areas in the state compared to the Kentucky average of 66.3. Despite being in Hardiness Zone 7a, local environmental factors require more intensive management than neighboring counties.

Extreme Heat and Long Growing Cycles

Lawns here face 47 extreme heat days annually, significantly higher than the state average of 30 days. This intense heat, combined with 4,705 growing degree days, means grass grows quickly and requires frequent mowing and supplemental irrigation.

Acidic Soils Require Careful Amendments

The local soil pH of 5.82 is below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, suggesting that most lawns will benefit from lime applications to unlock nutrients. A clay content of 21.7% helps retain moisture, but the low sand percentage of 14.1% can lead to drainage issues during heavy rains.

Consistent Moisture in a Hot Climate

The county saw seven weeks of drought over the last year, though it currently shows no active drought designations. To combat the 47 days of high heat, use mulching mowers to return clippings to the soil, which helps retain moisture and protect the grass crowns.

Winning With Heat-Tolerant Varieties

Given the high heat-day count, heat-tolerant Tall Fescue or Bermuda grass are the most resilient options for Warren County. Aim to complete your spring seeding by the April 5th average last frost to ensure the lawn is established before summer peaks.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Warren County's county score?
Warren County, Kentucky has a composite county score of 41.8 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 Warren County rank among counties in Kentucky?
Warren County ranks #117 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 Warren County, Kentucky?
The median annual property tax in Warren County is $1,558, with an effective tax rate of 0.64%. This earns Warren County a tax score of 69.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Warren County?
The median household income in Warren County, Kentucky is $64,801 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Warren County earns an income score of 53.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Warren County, Kentucky a good place to live?
Warren County scores 41.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #117 in Kentucky. The best way to evaluate Warren 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 Warren County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.