Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Meads, KY
Meads, KY


Salary And Cost Of Living In Meads KY
Meads, Kentucky, is a small but growing community located just outside Ashland in Boyd County. For individuals and families considering a move to this part of Eastern Kentucky, understanding the balance between salary levels and the overall cost of living is essential. Because Meads combines a suburban feel with convenient access to regional employers, many people find it offers a strong quality of life relative to its expenses. In the following sections, we will explore average salaries, the cost of living, home values and rents, the best neighborhoods, and local schools in Meads, KY, to help you make an informed decision.
Average Salary In Meads KY
The job market in and around Meads, KY, is influenced by regional employers in healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, and public services. While Meads itself is largely residential, many residents commute to Ashland, Catlettsburg, and other nearby areas for work. Overall, salaries in Meads, Kentucky, tend to track closely with the broader Ashland metropolitan area.
Typical income levels may vary by industry, but the following table provides a helpful overview of estimated earnings in the Meads area:
| Income Measure (Meads KY Area) | Estimated Amount (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $48,000 – $52,000 |
| Median Individual Income | $25,000 – $30,000 |
| Typical Entry-Level Salary | $22,000 – $28,000 |
| Typical Mid-Career Professional Salary | $45,000 – $60,000 |
Because the cost of living in Meads, KY, is lower than the national average, these salary ranges can stretch further than in many larger metropolitan regions. Residents often find that housing, utilities, and everyday expenses are more manageable, allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle on a modest income.
Cost Of Living In Meads KY
The cost of living in Meads, KY, is generally considered affordable, particularly when compared with national figures and larger Kentucky cities such as Louisville or Lexington. Many household budget categories, including housing, transportation, and groceries, tend to be lower than the U.S. average, though healthcare and utilities may be closer to national norms.
The following table compares estimated cost-of-living indices in Meads with national averages. A score of 100 represents the U.S. average; numbers below 100 indicate lower costs, while numbers above 100 indicate higher costs.
| Category | Meads KY Index | U.S. Average Index |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Cost Of Living | 82 | 100 |
| Housing | 70 | 100 |
| Groceries | 92 | 100 |
| Transportation | 85 | 100 |
| Utilities | 95 | 100 |
| Healthcare | 97 | 100 |
These figures illustrate that housing is the primary driver of Meads’ affordability. Groceries and utilities remain fairly reasonable, and transportation costs are typically lower due to shorter commutes and less congestion. As a result, many residents can set aside savings or invest more in homeownership and education.
Average Home Values And Rents In Meads KY
For those thinking about buying or renting, Meads, Kentucky, offers attractive housing prices compared with many other parts of the country. Single-family homes are the dominant housing type, often on larger lots, which appeals to families and individuals seeking more space.
Below is an overview of estimated housing prices and rental rates in Meads, KY:
| Housing Type (Meads KY) | Estimated Value or Rent |
|---|---|
| Median Home Value (All Homes) | $150,000 – $175,000 |
| Typical 3-Bedroom Single-Family Home | $160,000 – $210,000 |
| Typical Monthly Rent – 1 BR Apartment | $600 – $750 |
| Typical Monthly Rent – 2 BR Apartment | $700 – $850 |
| Typical Monthly Rent – 3 BR House | $850 – $1,100 |
Price ranges can vary based on proximity to main roads, school zones, and home updates, but even higher-end homes in Meads, KY, are often more accessible than similar properties in many suburban markets across the U.S. This affordability makes Meads especially appealing to first-time homebuyers, growing families, and retirees seeking value.
Best Neighborhoods In Meads KY
Although Meads, Kentucky, is a relatively small community, it features several distinct residential areas and streets that attract homebuyers. Many neighborhoods provide quiet, tree-lined roads with easy access to Ashland, U.S. Route 60, and local schools. When exploring the best neighborhoods in Meads, KY, it is helpful to look at factors such as home values, commute times, and nearby amenities.
The table below summarizes some of the most sought-after residential areas in and around Meads:
| Neighborhood / Area | General Characteristics | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Central Meads Residential Area | Established single-family homes, quiet streets, convenient to schools and local services. | $140,000 – $200,000 |
| Subdivisions Near U.S. Route 60 | Newer construction, easy access to Ashland and shopping, popular with commuters. | $170,000 – $230,000 |
| Outlying Rural-Residential Tracts | Larger lots, semi-rural feel, attractive to buyers wanting more land and privacy. | $130,000 – $220,000 |
Neighborhoods in Meads, KY, are known for their community-oriented atmosphere and relative safety. Residents often appreciate the balance of small-town charm with practical amenities, including nearby healthcare facilities, grocery stores, and dining options in Ashland. When choosing a neighborhood in Meads, prospective buyers are encouraged to consider school zones, commute preferences, and long-term property value.
Schools And Education In Meads KY
Education is a significant consideration for many families evaluating the salary and cost of living in Meads, KY. The community is served primarily by public schools in the Boyd County and Ashland Independent school systems, depending on the exact address. These districts offer elementary, middle, and high schools that provide a range of academic and extracurricular programs.
The table below highlights key aspects of schools serving Meads, Kentucky:
| School Type | Options Serving Meads KY | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Public Elementary Schools | Boyd County and Ashland area elementary campuses | Neighborhood-based schools, foundational academic programs, community activities. |
| Public Middle Schools | Regional middle schools in Boyd County and Ashland | expanded coursework, athletics, and arts programs for adolescents. |
| Public High Schools | Boyd County High School, Ashland-area high schools | College-prep courses, career and technical programs, and sports. |
| Private And Parochial Schools | Options located in nearby Ashland | Smaller class sizes, faith-based education, specialized curricula. |
Families who choose Meads, KY, often appreciate having access to both public and private education options within a short drive. Additionally, higher education institutions, such as community colleges and regional universities in Eastern Kentucky and neighboring states, are within commuting distance, supporting continuing education and workforce development.
Summary Of Living In Meads KY
Taking all of these factors together, Meads, Kentucky, offers a compelling combination of moderate salaries and a notably low cost of living. While income levels are generally in line with other small communities in Eastern Kentucky, housing and everyday expenses remain significantly more affordable than in many metropolitan areas. Residents can enjoy the benefits of homeownership, reasonable rents, and access to quality schools without stretching their budgets to the limit.
For individuals and families comparing communities in the Ashland region, Meads, KY, stands out for its quiet neighborhoods, convenient location, and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, a professional seeking a manageable commute, or a retiree looking for value, understanding the salary landscape and cost of living in Meads, Kentucky, can help you decide if this welcoming community is the right fit for your long-term plans.


Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Meads, KY
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