I’ve analyzed the Zillow Home Value Index data to identify Kentucky’s fastest-growing property markets over the past decade. The results reveal astonishing growth patterns that defy conventional expectations about rural real estate.
What’s particularly striking is the magnitude of growth in smaller communities. While urban centers typically dominate growth discussions, these 25 Kentucky towns have quietly achieved remarkable 127-700% value increases since 2016, offering exceptional returns for early investors.
As we examine these markets town by town, I’ve noticed distinct geographical clusters and potential correlation with local economic developments. These patterns suggest targeted investment opportunities that could yield similarly impressive returns in the coming years.
25. Junction City
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 127.07%
- 2025: $181,597
- 2024: $168,817
- 2023: $159,648
- 2022: $144,504
- 2021: $127,075
- 2020: $107,168
- 2019: $104,148
- 2018: $91,149
- 2017: $88,336
- 2016: $79,974
The consistent appreciation in Junction City signals a market with solid fundamentals rather than speculative activity. For investors, this steady climb represents over $100K in equity creation, with particularly strong momentum in the post-2020 period. Current price points still present an accessible entry compared to nearby markets, making it attractive for buy-and-hold strategies. Junction City sits at the intersection of three counties, creating unique economic advantages worth leveraging.
24. Allensville
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 127.64%
- 2025: $238,431
- 2024: $211,141
- 2023: $201,646
- 2022: $193,232
- 2021: $159,440
- 2020: $138,960
- 2019: $125,204
- 2018: $114,752
- 2017: $107,417
- 2016: $104,742
Allensville’s property values have more than doubled, representing a compound annual growth rate exceeding 9% – outperforming many traditional investment vehicles. The town’s higher baseline ($104K in 2016) indicates established appeal, with recent acceleration suggesting strengthening market fundamentals. The 2024-2025 surge of nearly $27K demonstrates momentum that savvy investors should monitor closely. Situated near the Tennessee border, Allensville benefits from cross-state economic influences while maintaining Kentucky’s tax advantages.
23. Wingo
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 127.77%
- 2025: $150,873
- 2024: $131,482
- 2023: $126,682
- 2022: $114,898
- 2021: $98,719
- 2020: $86,554
- 2019: $82,860
- 2018: $76,299
- 2017: $67,950
- 2016: $66,240
With median values still under $151K, Wingo represents a low barrier-to-entry investment opportunity despite its impressive growth trajectory. The market has been particularly explosive since 2021, with nearly $52K in additional value created in just four years. Cash flow potential remains strong at these price points, especially for investors targeting rental yields alongside appreciation. Positioned in the western Purchase Region, Wingo’s growth correlates with broader economic development throughout Kentucky’s western corridor.
22. Summer Shade
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 128.25%
- 2025: $182,983
- 2024: $163,598
- 2023: $159,378
- 2022: $155,576
- 2021: $127,263
- 2020: $102,517
- 2019: $99,949
- 2018: $95,612
- 2017: $86,727
- 2016: $80,167
Summer Shade shows remarkable resilience, with values consistently climbing through economic fluctuations and pandemic effects. The nearly $20K jump between 2024-2025 signals continued momentum that could push values well past $200K in the near term. For long-term investors, the data suggests sustainable growth rather than a speculative bubble that might soon burst. Nestled in Metcalfe County’s rolling countryside, Summer Shade combines rural charm with appreciating asset values – an increasingly rare combination.
21. Canmer
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 128.8%
- 2025: $206,449
- 2024: $184,826
- 2023: $176,561
- 2022: $171,540
- 2021: $147,620
- 2020: $120,013
- 2019: $113,313
- 2018: $102,651
- 2017: $96,204
- 2016: $90,232
Canmer’s breach of the $200K threshold represents a psychological milestone for a market that started at just $90K a decade ago. The consistent year-over-year gains suggest sustainable market fundamentals rather than speculative activity, with particularly strong momentum in the post-pandemic period. Investors who bought in 2020 have already seen approximately 72% returns in just five years. Located in Hart County with proximity to Mammoth Cave attractions, Canmer benefits from tourism-adjacent economic activity without the volatility of pure vacation markets.
20. Hazel
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 129.02%
- 2025: $125,950
- 2024: $107,943
- 2023: $122,641
- 2022: $109,770
- 2021: $94,689
- 2020: $77,371
- 2019: $68,637
- 2018: $65,760
- 2017: $58,077
- 2016: $54,996
Hazel offers an exceptionally accessible price point despite its strong growth trajectory, with median values still under $126K. The massive 63% growth since 2020 suggests accelerating momentum rather than a market reaching its peak. Cash flow potential remains particularly strong at these price points, making it attractive for income-focused property investors. Located near the Tennessee border in Calloway County, Hazel benefits from cross-state economic influences while maintaining Kentucky’s favorable tax environment.
19. Stanton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 129.31%
- 2025: $178,748
- 2024: $160,435
- 2023: $146,565
- 2022: $134,940
- 2021: $114,212
- 2020: $98,792
- 2019: $91,270
- 2018: $87,727
- 2017: $79,497
- 2016: $77,951
Stanton’s property market has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with values more than doubling despite broader economic uncertainties. The acceleration in the past two years – with nearly $32K added since 2023 – suggests the growth trend isn’t just continuing but intensifying. Your investment horizon should recognize that early-stage growth markets often experience compounding effects as awareness increases. Positioned as the gateway to Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Park, Stanton benefits from tourism-adjacent economic flows without seasonal volatility.
18. Tompkinsville
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 130.42%
- 2025: $141,670
- 2024: $126,705
- 2023: $121,328
- 2022: $115,376
- 2021: $91,301
- 2020: $73,798
- 2019: $71,473
- 2018: $67,705
- 2017: $62,643
- 2016: $61,483
Tompkinsville presents a compelling investment case with median values increasing by nearly $15K annually since 2021 – exceptional growth for a sub-$150K market. Such consistent appreciation while maintaining relatively affordable price points suggests significant upside potential still exists. Current valuations indicate positive cash flow opportunities for rental investors, with cap rates likely exceeding most urban markets. Situated in Monroe County near the Tennessee border, Tompkinsville benefits from cross-state economic activity while maintaining the affordability that drives its growth.
17. Dunnville
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 130.65%
- 2025: $160,231
- 2024: $142,002
- 2023: $136,027
- 2022: $132,151
- 2021: $110,674
- 2020: $92,831
- 2019: $84,264
- 2018: $82,224
- 2017: $74,869
- 2016: $69,469
Dunnville’s property values have demonstrated extraordinary resilience, with consistent gains even through economic uncertainty and pandemic disruptions. The $18K jump between 2024-2025 signals accelerating momentum that savvy investors should monitor closely. With values still below the national median, the market offers accessibility combined with proven growth potential – a rare combination. Located in Casey County with proximity to Green River Lake, Dunnville benefits from recreational appeal without the volatility typical of pure vacation markets.
16. Edmonton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 132.98%
- 2025: $163,941
- 2024: $142,635
- 2023: $135,318
- 2022: $131,685
- 2021: $107,910
- 2020: $87,333
- 2019: $84,693
- 2018: $81,679
- 2017: $75,351
- 2016: $70,366
Edmonton’s property market has generated nearly $94K in equity over the past decade, representing significant wealth creation for early investors. The impressive $21K gain between 2024-2025 suggests the growth curve is accelerating rather than plateauing – a positive signal for future appreciation. Current price points around $164K maintain accessibility while delivering proven growth potential – an increasingly rare combination in today’s market. As the Metcalfe County seat, Edmonton offers the stability of a government center combined with rural charm that’s increasingly valued in post-pandemic real estate markets.
15. Clinton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 135.85%
- 2025: $148,668
- 2024: $127,177
- 2023: $117,908
- 2022: $112,454
- 2021: $93,046
- 2020: $78,533
- 2019: $75,007
- 2018: $70,355
- 2017: $64,489
- 2016: $63,035
Clinton’s property values have shown remarkable momentum, with the past year alone generating over $21K in appreciation – a 16.9% single-year return that outperforms most traditional investments. The sub-$150K median price point offers exceptional accessibility for investors seeking growth markets with minimal barriers to entry. Historical data suggests steady appreciation rather than volatile swings, indicating fundamentals-driven growth rather than speculation. Located in Kentucky’s westernmost region, Clinton benefits from proximity to the Mississippi River and broader economic development throughout the Purchase Area.
14. Elkton
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 136.09%
- 2025: $198,132
- 2024: $175,348
- 2023: $162,390
- 2022: $156,371
- 2021: $128,301
- 2020: $107,422
- 2019: $99,539
- 2018: $94,119
- 2017: $88,229
- 2016: $83,921
Elkton’s approach to the $200K threshold represents a significant milestone for a market that began at just $84K in 2016. The impressive $23K single-year gain between 2024-2025 indicates accelerating momentum rather than a market reaching its peak. Investors who purchased in 2020 have already realized approximately 84% returns in just five years – exceptional performance by any standard. As the Todd County seat with proximity to both Clarksville and Nashville markets, Elkton benefits from governmental stability while capturing regional economic spillover effects.
13. Clarkson
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 136.19%
- 2025: $200,765
- 2024: $182,411
- 2023: $191,659
- 2022: $180,897
- 2021: $178,760
- 2020: $149,213
- 2019: $122,133
- 2018: $105,164
- 2017: $99,086
- 2016: $85,003
Clarkson’s breach of the $200K threshold marks a psychological milestone for investors, with property values more than doubling over the decade. The unusual price fluctuations between 2023-2025 suggest a maturing market finding its equilibrium rather than a fundamental weakness. Analyzing the ten-year trend, the market delivered approximately 9% compound annual growth – substantially outperforming many traditional investment vehicles. Located in Grayson County with proximity to Western Kentucky Parkway, Clarkson benefits from improved connectivity while maintaining small-town affordability and charm.
12. Science Hill
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 136.75%
- 2025: $175,586
- 2024: $162,455
- 2023: $161,399
- 2022: $165,122
- 2021: $142,516
- 2020: $123,790
- 2019: $104,927
- 2018: $90,591
- 2017: $82,557
- 2016: $74,166
Science Hill’s property values have created over $100K in equity since 2016, representing significant wealth generation for early investors. The market shows unusual resilience through economic fluctuations, with only minor depreciation during 2022-2023 followed by renewed appreciation. The recent 8% jump between 2024-2025 signals renewed momentum that could push values well beyond $180K in the near term. Located in Pulaski County with proximity to Lake Cumberland, Science Hill combines recreational appeal with relative affordability – a combination increasingly valued in post-pandemic markets.
11. Sharon Grove
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 137.26%
- 2025: $230,628
- 2024: $205,703
- 2023: $185,315
- 2022: $178,863
- 2021: $145,523
- 2020: $118,493
- 2019: $111,504
- 2018: $105,511
- 2017: $99,897
- 2016: $97,204
Sharon Grove’s property market has demonstrated exceptional financial performance, with values rising by nearly $25K in the past year alone – representing a 12.1% single-year return. The market’s higher entry point ($97K in 2016) indicates established fundamentals rather than speculative growth from an artificially depressed baseline. Current trends suggest continued momentum toward $250K, with particularly strong growth in the post-pandemic era. Located in Todd County near the Tennessee border, Sharon Grove benefits from cross-state economic influences while maintaining Kentucky’s favorable tax advantages.
10. Center
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 138.71%
- 2025: $183,384
- 2024: $162,353
- 2023: $156,960
- 2022: $153,320
- 2021: $132,373
- 2020: $101,924
- 2019: $95,123
- 2018: $91,454
- 2017: $83,735
- 2016: $76,822
Center’s property values have surged by nearly $13K annually since 2020, creating substantial wealth for investors who identified the growth potential early. The impressive $21K jump between 2024-2025 signals accelerating momentum rather than a market reaching its peak. With median values still below $185K, the market remains accessible while delivering proven growth potential – a rare combination in today’s real estate landscape. Located in Metcalfe County amidst the Commonwealth’s rolling countryside, Center exemplifies the rural renaissance driving some of Kentucky’s strongest real estate performances.
9. Bronston
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 139.63%
- 2025: $182,959
- 2024: $177,281
- 2023: $166,523
- 2022: $165,851
- 2021: $149,849
- 2020: $124,355
- 2019: $104,124
- 2018: $92,053
- 2017: $80,522
- 2016: $76,351
Bronston’s property market has created over $106K in equity since 2016, representing significant wealth generation for early investors. The relatively modest $5.7K gain between 2024-2025 suggests potential market stabilization after years of exceptional growth – which could indicate a maturing market rather than a negative indicator. Investors who purchased in 2020 have already realized approximately 47% returns in just five years. Located near Lake Cumberland with direct access to recreational amenities, Bronston benefits from both permanent resident demand and vacation/second-home market dynamics.
8. Bromley
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 140.15%
- 2025: $166,436
- 2024: $153,823
- 2023: $145,022
- 2022: $143,716
- 2021: $129,269
- 2020: $107,749
- 2019: $103,476
- 2018: $86,766
- 2017: $77,134
- 2016: $69,304
Bromley’s property values have delivered exceptional returns, turning a $69K investment in 2016 into over $166K today – a wealth-creation engine for early investors. The steady appreciation through economic fluctuations demonstrates market resilience rather than speculative activity. Recent acceleration with an $8.2% gain between 2024-2025 suggests continued momentum rather than a market reaching its peak. Uniquely positioned in Kenton County with proximity to Cincinnati metropolitan amenities, Bromley offers the rare combination of small-town character with big-city access.
7. Martha
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 140.68%
- 2025: $164,729
- 2024: $146,293
- 2023: $153,023
- 2022: $144,526
- 2021: $121,983
- 2020: $100,533
- 2019: $91,777
- 2018: $78,213
- 2017: $69,789
- 2016: $68,442
Martha’s property market has demonstrated remarkable financial performance, creating over $96K in equity since 2016 – a wealth multiplication effect for early investors. The unusual price fluctuation between 2023-2024 suggests market recalibration rather than fundamental weakness, with the strong 12.6% rebound between 2024-2025 confirming renewed momentum. Current trends suggest continued progression toward $175K, with particularly strong growth in the post-pandemic era. Located in Lawrence County in Eastern Kentucky, Martha exemplifies the strength of rural markets in regions traditionally overlooked by mainstream real estate analysis.
6. Guthrie
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 149.79%
- 2025: $194,997
- 2024: $170,937
- 2023: $150,778
- 2022: $142,007
- 2021: $119,130
- 2020: $105,632
- 2019: $91,320
- 2018: $87,931
- 2017: $80,939
- 2016: $78,065
Guthrie’s property market has generated extraordinary returns, with nearly $117K in equity creation since 2016 – outperforming many traditional investment vehicles. The impressive $24K single-year gain between 2024-2025 (a 14.1% annual return) signals accelerating momentum rather than a market reaching its peak. Analysis of the decade-long trend reveals approximately 10.7% compound annual growth – exceptional performance that justifies investor attention. Located in Todd County near the Tennessee border, Guthrie benefits from cross-state economic influences while maintaining the tax advantages that enhance Kentucky’s investment appeal.
5. Falls of Rough
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 180.24%
- 2025: $187,353
- 2024: $174,708
- 2023: $170,391
- 2022: $158,308
- 2021: $144,188
- 2020: $117,994
- 2019: $101,260
- 2018: $91,412
- 2017: $78,145
- 2016: $66,854
Falls of Rough demonstrates exceptional investment performance, with property values nearly tripling over the decade – turning a $67K investment into $187K. The market’s remarkable 59% growth since 2020 showcases how rural Kentucky properties have thrived in the post-pandemic real estate landscape. The consistent year-over-year gains suggest fundamentals-driven growth rather than speculative activity that might suddenly reverse. Positioned in Grayson County with access to Rough River Lake and its recreational amenities, Falls of Rough combines lifestyle appeal with financial performance.
4. West Point
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 199.94%
- 2025: $122,483
- 2024: $107,132
- 2023: $92,645
- 2022: $84,752
- 2021: $77,245
- 2020: $63,561
- 2019: $56,696
- 2018: $51,685
- 2017: $46,388
- 2016: $40,836
West Point’s property market has delivered extraordinary returns, tripling in value over the decade – transforming a modest $41K investment into $122K today. The market shows acceleration rather than plateauing, with a remarkable 14.3% gain between 2024-2025 suggesting continued momentum. Despite the impressive growth, current valuations remain highly accessible at $122K – offering entry-level investment opportunities with proven appreciation potential. Strategically located at the confluence of the Salt and Ohio Rivers near Fort Knox, West Point benefits from military-adjacent economic activity while maintaining small-town affordability.
3. Burnside
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 228.34%
- 2025: $107,370
- 2024: $108,797
- 2023: $110,169
- 2022: $111,633
- 2021: $106,461
- 2020: $86,123
- 2019: $64,405
- 2018: $44,034
- 2017: $35,177
- 2016: $32,701
Burnside presents a fascinating case study with its explosive 228% growth despite recent slight value declines – demonstrating how early market entry can protect investors through later fluctuations. The unusual valuation pattern since 2021 suggests market normalization after extraordinary growth rather than fundamental weakness. Even with the recent adjustment, investors who purchased in 2016 have realized over $74K in equity growth. Located on Lake Cumberland with “houseboat capital of the world” credentials, Burnside combines recreational appeal with investment potential despite its unique market dynamics.
2. Farmington
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 251.55%
- 2025: $150,359
- 2024: $110,070
- 2023: $123,831
- 2022: $100,137
- 2021: $80,286
- 2020: $58,497
- 2019: $52,570
- 2018: $48,877
- 2017: $44,039
- 2016: $42,771
Farmington’s extraordinary 251% appreciation represents wealth multiplication rather than mere growth – transforming a modest $43K investment into over $150K today. The remarkable 36.6% single-year surge between 2024-2025 indicates accelerating momentum rather than a market reaching its peak. Current price points remain exceptionally accessible at $150K despite the proven growth trajectory – offering rare entry-level opportunities in a proven high-performance market. Located in Graves County in western Kentucky’s Purchase Region, Farmington exemplifies how rural markets can deliver extraordinary returns when fundamental economic shifts drive demand.
1. New Concord
- % change from 2016 to 2025: 703.82%
- 2025: $153,999
- 2024: $135,033
- 2023: $123,183
- 2022: $90,629
- 2021: $78,770
- 2020: $57,055
- 2019: $38,059
- 2018: $31,445
- 2017: $23,257
- 2016: $19,158
New Concord’s unprecedented 703% appreciation represents financial transformation rather than mere investment – turning a modest $19K property into a $154K asset. The market’s explosive trajectory features consistent acceleration rather than plateauing, with the impressive 14% gain between 2024-2025 suggesting continued momentum. Even after this extraordinary growth, current valuations remain relatively accessible at $154K – presenting difficult questions about future growth potential versus market normalization. Located near Kentucky Lake in Calloway County, New Concord exemplifies how water-adjacent properties in previously overlooked rural markets have become post-pandemic real estate stars.
