Metcalfe County, Kentucky
Income Data
U.S. Census Bureau ACSAt a Glance
Economic Indicators
How Metcalfe County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Income Advisory: Metcalfe County
Income Verdict
Metcalfe County has a median household income of $48,572 and per capita income of $24,031 — a gap of $24,541, suggesting a typical mix of dual-income and single-earner households.
Housing Affordability
With median gross rent at $549/month and a median household income of $48,572, rent consumes approximately 13.6% of monthly income — well within affordable thresholds.
Economic Context
With a median household income of $48,572, residents of Metcalfe County likely face budget constraints in higher-cost regions but may find cost of living manageable locally. Per capita income of $24,031 suggests below-average individual earnings, which may reflect local employment mix or industrial composition.
Neighbor Context
Metcalfe County earns approximately 13.1% below the Kentucky state median household income of $55,909.
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
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Income Comparison Calculator
See how your household income compares in Metcalfe County
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%
Income Adequacy
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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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.