Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Balkan, KY
Considering a move to Balkan, KY? This small Appalachian community of about 200 offers very affordable living, with median home prices around $75,000 and average rents near $620. The area enjoys mild seasons with 57% sunny days yearly and low violent crime rates of 130 per 100K. Commute times are short at 27 minutes, and local schools and healthcare options are accessible, though educational attainment is below the national average. Balkan is a peaceful, close-knit place for those seeking quiet living and budget-friendly housing.
Demographics - Balkan, KY
Demographics - Balkan, KY
Balkan, KY is a small, close-knit community with a population of about 200 residents, most of whom are White, and a median age of 42. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a stable and familiar environment for newcomers.
Population:
200
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.5%
Black:
4.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Balkan, KY?
Living in Balkan is highly affordable, with a median home value of $75,000 and average rent of $620, both well below national averages. The overall cost of living index sits at 80.5, reflecting low housing and transportation costs that make the city ideal for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$75,000
Gross Rent:
$620
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$310
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
80.5
Grocery:
88.2
Housing:
52.3
Utilities:
95.4
Transportation:
78.5
Health Care:
89.6
Miscellaneous:
84.7
Crime
Is Balkan, KY a safe place to live?
Balkan experiences low violent crime, with only 130 incidents per 100,000 people, making it a safe place to settle. Property crime is somewhat higher, but overall crime rates remain below national levels, offering peace of mind to families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
130
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,090
Crime Index:
1,220
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 770
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 92
Weather
What is the weather like in Balkan, KY year-round?
The city enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 26°F and warm summers peaking at 87°F. With 57% sunny days and nearly 49 inches of annual rainfall, residents experience a pleasant climate ideal for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
45°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Local incomes in Balkan are modest, with a median household income of $38,500 and a relatively high poverty rate of 25%. Most neighbors have at least a high school education, and the community is characterized by friendly, hardworking residents who value a slower pace of life.
Median Income:
$27,500
Household Income:
$38,500
Family Income:
$43,000
Per Capita Income:
$19,000
Income Male:
$31,200
Income Female:
$24,800
Poverty Rate:
25.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$620
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
77.5%
Bachelors or More:
10.2%
Education
How are the schools in Balkan, KY?
Balkan students attend local public schools such as Bell Central School Center and Bell County High School, both offering reasonable class sizes. Families also have access to private and higher education options nearby, including community colleges and Union College for continued learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Bell Central School Center
Street:
1981 US Highway 25E
Phone:
606-337-3104
Students:
820
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
Bell County High School
Street:
9824 US Highway 25E
Phone:
606-337-7061
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1

Private Schools
Name:
St. Julian Catholic School
Street:
118 North 19th St, Middlesboro, KY
Phone:
606-248-2461
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College
City:
Pineville
State:
KY
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
2,500
Name:
Union College
City:
Barbourville
State:
KY
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Residents have access to nearby hospitals such as Pineville Community Health Center and Barbourville ARH Hospital, both offering emergency services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well served in the area.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Pineville Community Health Center
Address:
850 Riverview Ave, Pineville, KY 40977
Phone:
(606) 337-3051
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Barbourville ARH Hospital
Address:
80 Hospital Dr, Barbourville, KY 40906
Phone:
(606) 546-4175
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
66.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Balkan, KY?
Balkan's housing market is notably affordable, with a median home price of $75,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 76%. Rental options are available, and the area sees slow but steady appreciation, making it a practical choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$75,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$620
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are managed by the Kentucky Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing in Frankfort, ensuring accessible services for local drivers. Residents can find detailed information and resources on the official state DMV website.
State:
Kentucky
Department:
Kentucky Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing
Address:
200 Mero Street, Frankfort, KY 40622
Phone:
1-502-564-1257
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.