Wayne County, Kentucky
Income Data
At a Glance
How Wayne County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Wayne County, Kentucky
Wayne County faces significant income gap
Wayne County's median household income of $41,933 falls $32,822 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, representing a 44% gap. This substantial shortfall places Wayne among America's lower-income counties, signaling structural economic challenges.
Among Kentucky's lowest-earning counties
Wayne County's $41,933 median income trails the state average of $55,909 by $13,976, ranking it in the bottom tier of Kentucky counties. Economic stagnation and limited job diversity characterize the local labor market.
Struggling alongside Whitley County
Wayne County ($41,933) nearly mirrors Whitley County ($41,719) in household income, both severely lagging regional peers like Union ($60,989) and Woodford ($80,006). This shared struggle suggests common challenges—population loss, limited opportunity, and dependence on declining industries.
Housing costs strain tight budgets
Wayne County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds affordability benchmarks in neighboring counties, indicating housing absorbs a growing share of limited income. The median home value of $121,700 remains accessible but burdensome for median-earning families.
Seek income growth and skill investment
Wayne County residents must prioritize education and vocational training to lift household earnings above the median and build long-term wealth. Even small regular savings and access to employer benefits can compound into meaningful financial security over time.
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the Wayne County median
County median: $41,933 per year
vs. County Median
+0%
vs. State Average
-25%
vs. National Median
-44%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($3,494) vs. median rent ($666/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.