Metcalfe County, Kentucky

Income Data

-13% vs. Kentucky average
$48,572
Median Household Income
$24,031
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$48,572
-13% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$24,031
-39% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
47.1%
income as % of home value
Rank in Kentucky
#85 / 120
by median household income

How Metcalfe County Compares

Metcalfe County$48,572
Kentucky Average$55,909
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$48,572
Median Household Income
$24,031
Per Capita Income
$103,100
Median Home Value
47.1%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Metcalfe County, Kentucky

Metcalfe significantly below U.S. income

Metcalfe County's median household income of $48,572 trails the national median of $74,755 by $26,183—a stark 35% shortfall. This substantial gap places Metcalfe among the lower-income counties in America, indicating limited economic opportunity and lower average wages.

Metcalfe earns less than Kentucky

At $48,572, Metcalfe County's median household income falls $7,337 below the Kentucky state median of $55,909. This 13% deficit means Metcalfe residents earn considerably less than most other Kentuckians, reflecting a local economy with fewer high-wage job opportunities.

Metcalfe among the county poorest

Metcalfe County's $48,572 median household income ranks near the bottom of surrounding counties, only slightly exceeding Monroe County ($49,430) and substantially trailing Mercer County ($63,115). The county's economic challenges are evident when compared to more prosperous neighbors.

Housing costs are manageable

Metcalfe County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.6% is favorable compared to national standards, consuming a reasonable share of household earnings. The modest median home value of $103,100 keeps homeownership accessible, though limited household income means little room for unexpected expenses.

Start small, build steady

Metcalfe residents should prioritize establishing an emergency fund before pursuing investments, given limited income margins. Seek out employer retirement plans, government savings programs, and financial counseling to make meaningful progress toward long-term financial security.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Metcalfe County, Kentucky?
The median household income in Metcalfe County, Kentucky is $48,572, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in Metcalfe County?
The per capita income in Metcalfe County is $24,031, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $48,572.
How does Metcalfe County compare to the Kentucky average?
Metcalfe County's median household income of $48,572 is lower than the Kentucky state average of $55,909. The per capita income is $24,031, compared to the state average of $29,616.
What is the per capita income in Metcalfe County, Kentucky?
The per capita income in Metcalfe County, Kentucky is $24,031, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Is Metcalfe County a low-income area in Kentucky?
Metcalfe County's median household income of $48,572 is below the Kentucky average of $55,909. The per capita income of $24,031 is also lower than the state average of $29,616. Lower incomes can reflect the local economic base, rural vs. urban location, and employment opportunities available in the area.
How does Metcalfe County rank for income in Kentucky?
Metcalfe County ranks #85 out of 120 counties in Kentucky by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $48,572 and per capita income of $24,031, it falls in the bottom third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in Metcalfe County

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Your income is above the Metcalfe County median

County median: $48,572 per year

vs. County Median

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vs. State Average

-13%

vs. National Median

-35%

vs. Metcalfe County MedianAbout equal
vs. Kentucky Average13% below
vs. National Median35% below

Income Adequacy

Monthly income covers median rent7.4x

Your monthly income ($4,048) vs. median rent ($549/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

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Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.