IncomeBy County

Nicholas County, Kentucky

Income Data

-4% vs. Kentucky average
$53,616
Median Household Income
$24,672
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$53,616
-4% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$24,672
-37% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
44.8%
income as % of home value
Rank in Kentucky
#68 / 120
by median household income

How Nicholas County Compares

Nicholas County$53,616
Kentucky Average$55,909
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$53,616
Median Household Income
$24,672
Per Capita Income
$119,600
Median Home Value
44.8%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Nicholas County, Kentucky

Nicholas County falls behind national earnings

Nicholas County's median household income of $53,616 lags the national median of $74,755 by $21,139, representing a 28% gap. This significant shortfall places Nicholas well below the national norm and reflects limited high-wage opportunities. The county ranks in the lower third nationally for household earnings.

Slightly below Kentucky state average

At $53,616, Nicholas County trails Kentucky's state median of $55,909 by just $2,293, placing it near but below the state middle. The county's per capita income of $24,672 substantially underperforms the state average of $29,616 by 17%, suggesting wealth concentration or fewer high earners. Nicholas sits in the lower-middle tier statewide.

Mid-range income among nearby counties

Nicholas ($53,616) earns more than Owsley ($31,064) but less than Owen ($59,706) and Pendleton ($66,601), placing it in the middle of this regional grouping. The $6,090 gap with Owen and $13,000 gap with Pendleton suggest neighboring areas offer better earning opportunities. Regional income variation reflects different industry bases and development levels.

Housing costs are well-managed

Nicholas County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% is among the lowest in this regional group, indicating excellent housing affordability. The median home value of $119,600 remains comfortably within reach for the median household earning $53,616. Housing stability provides a foundation despite moderate overall income levels.

Capitalize on affordable housing advantage

Nicholas County residents benefit from low housing costs that free up income for savings and investments relative to national averages. Building equity through homeownership and consistently funding retirement accounts can help households offset modest earnings growth. Local credit unions and community banks offer tailored financial planning services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Nicholas County, Kentucky?
The median household income in Nicholas County, Kentucky is $53,616, 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 Nicholas County?
The per capita income in Nicholas County is $24,672, 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 $53,616.
How does Nicholas County compare to the Kentucky average?
Nicholas County's median household income of $53,616 is lower than the Kentucky state average of $55,909. The per capita income is $24,672, compared to the state average of $29,616.
What is the per capita income in Nicholas County, Kentucky?
The per capita income in Nicholas County, Kentucky is $24,672, 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 Nicholas County a low-income area in Kentucky?
Nicholas County's median household income of $53,616 is below the Kentucky average of $55,909. The per capita income of $24,672 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 Nicholas County rank for income in Kentucky?
Nicholas County ranks #68 out of 120 counties in Kentucky by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $53,616 and per capita income of $24,672, it falls in the middle third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

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Your income is above the Nicholas County median

County median: $53,616 per year

vs. County Median

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vs. State Average

-4%

vs. National Median

-28%

vs. Nicholas County MedianAbout equal
vs. Kentucky Average▼ 4% below
vs. National Median▼ 28% below

Income Adequacy

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Your monthly income ($4,468) vs. median rent ($654/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.

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