Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Smilax, KY
Considering a move to Smilax, KY? This small, close-knit community of about 400 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $75,000 and average rents of $650. Residents enjoy quiet rural surroundings, low violent crime rates (184 per 100k), and a moderate local commute of 28 minutes. While educational attainment is below national averages, the area boasts a mild climate with 60% sunny days and convenient access to regional healthcare and schools, making it a peaceful choice for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Demographics - Smilax, KY
Demographics - Smilax, KY
Smilax, KY is a small rural community with a population of about 400 residents, predominantly White, and a median age of 43, offering a quiet and mature atmosphere. The area has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a close-knit and familiar environment for newcomers.
Population:
400
Density:
45 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Smilax, KY?
Smilax offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values around $75,000 and average rents at $650, well below national averages. Everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities remain manageable, making the area appealing for those seeking budget-friendly living.
Median House Value:
$75,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$780
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
5%
|
High:
5%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.5
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
40.5
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
86.0
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Smilax, KY a safe place to live?
The community experiences low violent crime rates, with just 184 incidents per 100,000 people, contributing to a sense of safety for residents. Property crime is more common but remains moderate, allowing families and individuals to feel secure in their daily lives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
184
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,140
Crime Index:
1,324
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 543
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 88
Weather
What is the weather like in Smilax, KY year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild four-season climate, with winter lows around 25°F, summer highs near 87°F, and about 60% of days being sunny. The area receives roughly 50 inches of rainfall annually, supporting lush natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
49.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Local households in Smilax typically earn a median income of $36,200, and the cost of rent remains affordable. While the poverty rate is higher than average at 31.2% and higher education rates are modest, the community is tight-knit with most people commuting about 28 minutes for work.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$36,200
Family Income:
$42,000
Per Capita Income:
$17,200
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$25,800
Poverty Rate:
31.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
28.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
76.5%
Bachelors or More:
10.2%
Education
How are the schools in Smilax, KY?
Education in Smilax is provided by local public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, and higher education is accessible at nearby Hazard Community and Technical College, just 18 miles away. While college attainment is lower than average, families will find supportive learning environments for K-12 students.
Public Schools
Name:
Leslie County High School
Street:
25 Eagle Ln
Phone:
606-672-2337
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Stinnett Elementary School
Street:
2750 Hwy 406
Phone:
606-374-3596
Students:
300
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.0
Colleges
Name:
Hazard Community and Technical College
City:
Hazard
State:
KY
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
3,700
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is convenient, with a major hospital nearby in Hazard and approximately 89% of residents covered by health insurance. The area offers a solid ratio of physicians to residents, ensuring basic medical needs are met.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center
Address:
100 Medical Center Dr, Hazard, KY 41701
Phone:
(606) 439-6600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
65.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Smilax, KY?
The housing market in Smilax is highly accessible, with a median home price of $75,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 74%. Modest appreciation and low foreclosure rates make it an attractive option for first-time buyers and families looking to settle in a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$75,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents handle licensing and registration through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing, with comprehensive services available online and in Frankfort. This makes managing vehicle needs straightforward for new arrivals.
State:
Kentucky
Department:
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Division of Driver Licensing
Address:
200 Mero St, Frankfort, KY 40622
Phone:
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.