Harlan County, Kentucky
Income Data
At a Glance
How Harlan County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Harlan County, Kentucky
Harlan County faces severe income challenges
Harlan County's median household income of $37,198 is 50.3% below the U.S. median of $74,755, representing one of America's most economically distressed counties. The profound shortfall reflects decades of industrial decline and limited economic diversification.
Kentucky's lowest income county
At $37,198, Harlan County's median household income is 33.5% below Kentucky's state average of $55,909, placing it among the state's poorest communities. The gap underscores the county's acute economic marginalization.
Significantly trails all sampled counties
Harlan County's $37,198 median income is the lowest by far among the eight sampled counties, falling $3,889 below the next-lowest Green County ($41,087). The gap reflects structural economic barriers distinct even from rural Kentucky's broader struggles.
Housing crisis compounds income poverty
A rent-to-income ratio of 21.0% is the highest among sampled counties, meaning housing costs consume one-fifth of household earnings—significantly above the 30% affordability threshold for those with very low incomes. A median home value of $73,100 offers low absolute prices but represents nearly two years of median household income.
Seek immediate economic opportunity
Harlan County residents facing severe income constraints should prioritize accessing workforce development, vocational training, and higher education opportunities that can unlock wage growth. Community organizations, nonprofits, and government programs offer support for basic financial stability and long-term economic mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the Harlan County median
County median: $37,198 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-33%
vs. National Median
-50%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($3,100) vs. median rent ($651/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.