Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wheelwright, KY
Considering a move to Wheelwright, KY? This small eastern Kentucky town has a population of just over 500, offering affordable living with a median home value of $63,000 and average rent around $600. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates, quick average commutes (22 minutes), and a friendly, rural atmosphere. While educational attainment and average incomes are below national averages, you'll find a tight-knit community, beautiful mountain scenery, and plenty of sunny days to explore the outdoors.
Demographics - Wheelwright, KY
Demographics - Wheelwright, KY
Wheelwright is a close-knit rural community with a population of 539, where most residents are White and the median age is 38. The gender balance is nearly even, and a small percentage of the population speaks a language other than English at home. The area offers a peaceful small-town atmosphere with moderate population density.
Population:
539
Density:
285 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.1
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.2%
Black:
11.7%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
3.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wheelwright, KY?
The cost of living in Wheelwright is notably affordable, with a median house value of $63,000 and typical rent around $600. Utility costs and state taxes remain low, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious residents. Groceries and healthcare are also less expensive than national averages, allowing your money to stretch further.
Median House Value:
$63,000
Gross Rent:
$600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$775
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$305
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
5%
Cost Of Living Index:
74
Grocery:
92
Housing:
48
Utilities:
97
Transportation:
88
Health Care:
85
Miscellaneous:
80
Crime
Is Wheelwright, KY a safe place to live?
Wheelwright experiences a low violent crime rate, with chances of violent crime at approximately 1 in 870, but property crime is somewhat higher, with a 1 in 95 chance. Overall, residents can feel relatively safe, especially compared to larger urban areas. Staying vigilant about property security is recommended.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
115
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,165
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 870
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Wheelwright, KY year-round?
The city enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 86°F and winters that dip to 27°F. Annual rainfall totals about 46 inches, and sunny days make up 62% of the year. The temperate climate is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities and changing scenery.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
46 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Residents of Wheelwright typically have modest household incomes, with a median of $28,500 and a poverty rate of around 30%. Most adults have completed high school, but college attainment remains low. The area maintains a small-town feel, with a short average commute and limited use of public transportation.
Median Income:
$21,900
Household Income:
$28,500
Family Income:
$32,900
Per Capita Income:
$14,200
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$21,000
Poverty Rate:
30.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$600
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
22.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
75.9%
Bachelors or More:
7.2%
Education
How are the schools in Wheelwright, KY?
Local families are served by public schools such as South Floyd Elementary, which maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio. While there are no private schools in town, nearby colleges like Big Sandy Community & Technical College and University of Pikeville offer higher education opportunities within a short drive. Educational attainment in the area is gradually improving, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
South Floyd Elementary School
Street:
299 Mt Olive Blvd
Phone:
606-452-9269
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.4
Colleges
Name:
Big Sandy Community & Technical College
City:
Prestonsburg
State:
KY
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
2,200
Name:
University of Pikeville
City:
Pikeville
State:
KY
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
2,400
Healthcare
Wheelwright residents enjoy access to major hospitals like Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center and Paul B Hall Regional Medical Center within easy driving distance. The area offers about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and high health insurance coverage at 90%. Healthcare services are available and generally affordable compared to national averages.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Highlands ARH Regional Medical Center
Address:
5000 KY-321, Prestonsburg, KY 41653
Phone:
(606) 886-8511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Paul B Hall Regional Medical Center
Address:
625 James S Trimble Blvd, Paintsville, KY 41240
Phone:
(606) 789-3511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
68
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wheelwright, KY?
Wheelwright’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $63,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $600. Most homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates are moderate, making it easier to find a place to live. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates provide stability for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$63,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$600
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle registrations and licenses are managed through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet in Frankfort, with helpful resources available online at drive.ky.gov. Residents can access services by phone or in person for all standard motor vehicle needs. The DMV supports new arrivals with clear guidance and efficient processing.
State:
Kentucky
Department:
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet – Division of Motor Vehicle 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.