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

Last Updated: January 31, 2026By Tags:
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

What is the overall cost of living like in Meads, KY?

Meads, KY generally offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared with many urban areas. Housing costs, particularly for single-family homes and modest rentals, tend to be lower than the national average, making it attractive for families and retirees. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation are typically moderate, though exact costs can vary depending on lifestyle and proximity to nearby cities like Ashland and Huntington. Residents often find that their income stretches further in Meads than in larger metropolitan regions.

What are the housing options and neighborhoods like in Meads, KY?

Housing in Meads, KY is primarily composed of single-family homes on spacious lots, with a mix of older, well-established properties and newer construction. Neighborhoods tend to be quiet and residential, with a small-town feel and a strong sense of community. Many areas offer tree-lined streets and easy access to local schools, churches, and small businesses. While you may not find high-rise apartments or dense urban developments, there are some rental options, manufactured homes, and rural properties that appeal to a range of budgets and preferences.

What is the community and lifestyle like for residents of Meads, KY?

Meads, KY has a close-knit, community-oriented atmosphere where residents often know their neighbors and local events are well attended. The lifestyle tends to be relaxed and family focused, with many people involved in school activities, youth sports, faith-based organizations, and civic groups. Residents appreciate the quieter pace compared with larger cities, while still benefiting from nearby amenities in Ashland and the greater Tri-State area. Outdoor recreation, local festivals, and regional cultural events contribute to a balanced and community-driven way of life.

What educational opportunities are available in and around Meads, KY?

Residents of Meads, KY typically access public schools in the surrounding district, which include elementary, middle, and high schools within a reasonable driving distance. These schools often serve several nearby communities, providing academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletics. For higher education, students and adults can commute to regional colleges and technical schools in Ashland, Kentucky or across the river in Ohio and West Virginia. Many families appreciate the manageable class sizes, active parent involvement, and the ability to participate in local and regional educational programs.

What amenities, transportation, and healthcare options are available in Meads, KY?

While Meads, KY itself is a smaller community, residents benefit from convenient access to amenities in nearby Ashland and the broader Tri-State region. Everyday needs such as grocery shopping, dining, banking, and basic services are typically just a short drive away. Personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation, and major highways connect residents to neighboring cities and employment centers. Healthcare services, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist providers, are available in surrounding communities, giving residents a range of options for routine and specialized medical care within a reasonable travel distance.

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