Zillow’s Home Value Index tells a clear story: even in 2025, parts of Kentucky remain surprisingly affordable. These 15 towns stand out for keeping prices well below the state average, despite a national trend of rising costs. Some have grown gradually, others have barely moved in years—but all offer potential for buyers who want more house for less money. From quiet hollers to small-town hubs, these places prove that affordable doesn’t have to mean overlooked.
15. Fedscreek – 49% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $49,365
- 2017: $46,981 (-$2,384, -4.83% from previous year)
- 2018: $50,064 (+$3,083, +6.56% from previous year)
- 2019: $48,160 (-$1,904, -3.80% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $59,840
- 2022: $62,953 (+$3,113, +5.20% from previous year)
- 2023: $61,241 (-$1,712, -2.72% from previous year)
- 2024: $68,389 (+$7,148, +11.67% from previous year)
- 2025: $73,776 (+$5,386, +7.88% from previous year)
Fedscreek’s home prices have grown by nearly 49% since 2016, yet median values remain under $75,000. The volatility across a few years—especially between 2016 and 2019—has given way to consistent growth since 2021. While small in size, Fedscreek offers an appealing opportunity for those seeking entry-level homeownership in eastern Kentucky.
Fedscreek – Steady Gains in a Remote Setting
Fedscreek sits in Pike County, a remote eastern stretch of the state known for its Appalachian heritage and coal-mining past. Like many towns in the region, Fedscreek faced years of economic uncertainty, but the housing market has gradually improved. The town’s location near the Kentucky–Virginia border makes it a quieter, more secluded choice for buyers willing to trade access for affordability. With fewer than 1,000 residents in the area and homes still well below the national average, the gains seen since 2021 reflect renewed local confidence.
Though there are few major employers nearby, the area is within commuting distance to Pikeville, which provides more options for work and services. In recent years, small infrastructure projects and digital connectivity improvements have supported slow but meaningful housing value increases in Fedscreek.
14. Garrett – 37% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $52,625
- 2017: $54,836 (+$2,211, +4.20% from previous year)
- 2018: $60,059 (+$5,224, +9.53% from previous year)
- 2019: $55,658 (-$4,401, -7.33% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $68,035
- 2022: $69,265 (+$1,229, +1.81% from previous year)
- 2023: $70,935 (+$1,670, +2.41% from previous year)
- 2024: $68,298 (-$2,637, -3.72% from previous year)
- 2025: $72,284 (+$3,986, +5.84% from previous year)
Garrett’s housing prices have climbed 37% since 2016, even with minor fluctuations in 2019 and 2024. The current median of just over $72,000 makes it one of Kentucky’s more affordable towns, with recent price growth suggesting rising interest in the area. It’s an attractive option for buyers looking to get in ahead of further appreciation.
Garrett – Rural Calm with Rising Demand
Located in Floyd County, Garrett is another eastern Kentucky town that’s benefitting from slow but reliable housing market gains. While not immune to downturns, the steady climb since 2021 suggests the town is quietly gaining traction. The nearby Levisa Fork River and regional trails draw outdoor enthusiasts, and proximity to Prestonsburg provides access to schools, healthcare, and shopping.
Garrett’s housing market saw a dip in 2019, then again slightly in 2024, but neither was enough to derail overall momentum. Local buyers and retirees drawn to the calm pace of life have contributed to growing demand. A limited inventory has likely helped push prices higher.
13. Fleming-Neon – 42% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $50,031
- 2017: $50,486 (+$454, +0.91% from previous year)
- 2018: $52,086 (+$1,601, +3.17% from previous year)
- 2019: $55,366 (+$3,280, +6.30% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $69,585
- 2022: $65,950 (-$3,635, -5.22% from previous year)
- 2023: $69,121 (+$3,171, +4.81% from previous year)
- 2024: $71,210 (+$2,090, +3.02% from previous year)
- 2025: $71,052 (-$159, -0.22% from previous year)
Home prices in Fleming-Neon are up 42% since 2016, currently hovering around $71,000. Growth has been fairly steady, despite a dip in 2022. The town has experienced modest year-over-year increases since, pointing to continued resilience.
Fleming-Neon – Reviving a Mining Community
Fleming-Neon, nestled in Letcher County, has long been tied to coal. While that industry has contracted, the town has been finding new footing. Located in Kentucky’s mountainous southeast, it offers scenic views and a slow-paced lifestyle that appeals to remote workers and retirees.
While the 2022 decline could be traced to broader market uncertainty, recent rebounds show that interest remains. The town also benefits from occasional tourism driven by its historical roots and natural surroundings. Housing is still affordable by national standards, giving Fleming-Neon solid potential for buyers seeking long-term value.
12. Hickman – 52% Home Price Increase Since 2010
- 2010: $46,560
- 2011: $44,205 (-$2,355, -5.06% from previous year)
- 2012: $44,951 (+$746, +1.69% from previous year)
- 2013: $43,895 (-$1,055, -2.35% from previous year)
- 2014: $46,361 (+$2,466, +5.62% from previous year)
- 2015: $44,952 (-$1,409, -3.04% from previous year)
- 2016: $49,468 (+$4,516, +10.05% from previous year)
- 2017: $49,805 (+$337, +0.68% from previous year)
- 2018: $51,770 (+$1,964, +3.94% from previous year)
- 2019: $52,837 (+$1,068, +2.06% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $62,536
- 2022: $65,112 (+$2,576, +4.12% from previous year)
- 2023: $71,063 (+$5,952, +9.14% from previous year)
- 2024: $69,894 (-$1,169, -1.64% from previous year)
- 2025: $70,941 (+$1,047, +1.50% from previous year)
Hickman’s housing market has grown by over 52% since 2010, showing remarkable resilience through several ups and downs. With a 2025 median value around $71,000, it’s still among Kentucky’s most accessible markets. Price swings suggest a market that’s reactive, but with long-term gains.
Hickman – Affordable Homes in a River Town
Hickman sits along the Mississippi River in far western Kentucky, offering a small-town lifestyle in a picturesque setting. As the seat of Fulton County, it holds administrative importance in the region. The town has long been shaped by agriculture and river commerce.
Its housing values jumped substantially after 2020, likely due to increasing demand for rural properties during and after the pandemic. Price dips in 2011 and again in 2024 haven’t reversed the long-term upward trend, and current affordability makes Hickman an intriguing option for homebuyers who value location and historic charm.
11. Warbranch – 78% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $39,720
- 2017: $40,432 (+$713, +1.79% from previous year)
- 2018: $45,721 (+$5,289, +13.08% from previous year)
- 2019: $43,258 (-$2,463, -5.39% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $61,295
- 2022: $69,860 (+$8,565, +13.97% from previous year)
- 2023: $69,832 (-$28, -0.04% from previous year)
- 2024: $68,032 (-$1,800, -2.58% from previous year)
- 2025: $70,645 (+$2,612, +3.84% from previous year)
Since 2016, Warbranch has seen a 78% increase in home values, driven by strong jumps between 2021 and 2022. The latest value sits just over $70,000. Although prices dipped in 2023 and 2024, recovery in 2025 suggests continued interest in this quiet town.
Warbranch – Strong Growth Amid the Hills
Warbranch lies deep in Leslie County, a mountainous region known for its rugged beauty. This secluded community has flown under the radar, but rising home values reflect renewed interest. Post-2020 demand has likely contributed to upward pressure on prices, especially for move-in ready properties.
Accessibility may be limited by winding roads and limited services, but that same remoteness makes Warbranch attractive for buyers looking for peace and privacy. Recent trends suggest that, while not a booming market, Warbranch is gaining ground among those seeking budget-friendly homes in scenic locales.
10. Langley – 18% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $59,618
- 2019: $57,019 (-$2,600, -4.36% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $72,601
- 2022: $76,672 (+$4,071, +5.61% from previous year)
- 2023: $76,517 (-$155, -0.20% from previous year)
- 2024: $65,110 (-$11,406, -14.91% from previous year)
- 2025: $70,489 (+$5,379, +8.26% from previous year)
Langley has seen an 18% increase in home prices since 2018, despite sharp volatility in 2024. The recent 2025 bounce-back signals a recovery after a dramatic drop, suggesting buyers may still see opportunity in this eastern Kentucky town. Prices now hover just over $70,000.
Langley – A Rebound After a Steep Drop
Located in Floyd County, Langley has experienced more housing market turbulence than most towns on this list. After a strong rise leading into 2022, the market fell sharply in 2024. That 15% decline reflected broader regional pressures, including inflation-related slowdowns and interest rate shifts.
Still, 2025’s recovery suggests renewed confidence in this small community. Langley benefits from proximity to larger towns like Prestonsburg, providing residents access to work and amenities while maintaining rural charm. The affordability and recent uptick may attract buyers looking for long-term potential.
9. Stopover – 33% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $51,975
- 2017: $49,567 (-$2,408, -4.63% from previous year)
- 2018: $51,148 (+$1,580, +3.19% from previous year)
- 2019: $49,280 (-$1,867, -3.65% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $67,708
- 2022: $69,670 (+$1,962, +2.90% from previous year)
- 2023: $65,895 (-$3,775, -5.42% from previous year)
- 2024: $68,910 (+$3,015, +4.58% from previous year)
- 2025: $69,290 (+$380, +0.55% from previous year)
Home values in Stopover have increased 33% since 2016, although the path hasn’t been smooth. After a substantial climb into 2021, prices wobbled but stabilized by 2025. With a median home price under $70,000, it remains one of Kentucky’s least expensive markets.
Stopover – Low-Cost Living in Pike County
Tucked away in Pike County, Stopover is another Appalachian town offering affordable homes in a quiet environment. While job growth is limited locally, its housing market has held up reasonably well. That’s especially notable considering the economic headwinds facing similar communities.
Like nearby towns, Stopover saw some of its strongest price jumps after 2020, likely due to pandemic-era relocations and low inventory. Buyers seeking remote, scenic surroundings continue to consider this area, especially as other markets grow out of reach.
8. Majestic – 19% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $57,943
- 2017: $56,736 (-$1,207, -2.08% from previous year)
- 2018: $58,845 (+$2,109, +3.72% from previous year)
- 2019: $55,943 (-$2,902, -4.93% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $72,630
- 2022: $77,518 (+$4,888, +6.73% from previous year)
- 2023: $72,158 (-$5,360, -6.91% from previous year)
- 2024: $66,698 (-$5,460, -7.57% from previous year)
- 2025: $69,071 (+$2,373, +3.56% from previous year)
Majestic’s prices have risen nearly 19% since 2016, but the journey has been bumpy. The town reached a peak in 2022 before a two-year dip. In 2025, the market appears to be rebounding, though values remain relatively low.
Majestic – Bouncing Back After Two Tough Years
Majestic lives up to its name in terms of scenery, with wooded hills and valleys characteristic of Pike County. Yet, its housing market has struggled to maintain consistent growth. Prices surged from 2019 to 2022, only to fall by over 13% across the next two years.
With limited development and inventory, price corrections are more noticeable here. Still, 2025’s increase signals buyer activity is picking up again. This town remains a good bet for buyers seeking a long-term hold in a quiet part of eastern Kentucky.
7. Evarts – 129% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $28,694
- 2017: $29,008 (+$314, +1.09% from previous year)
- 2018: $30,416 (+$1,408, +4.85% from previous year)
- 2019: $31,643 (+$1,227, +4.03% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $40,238
- 2022: $41,199 (+$960, +2.39% from previous year)
- 2023: $48,679 (+$7,480, +18.16% from previous year)
- 2024: $53,598 (+$4,919, +10.11% from previous year)
- 2025: $65,772 (+$12,174, +22.71% from previous year)
Evarts has posted a massive 129% gain since 2016, going from under $29,000 to over $65,000 by 2025. The trend has accelerated in recent years, with double-digit increases in both 2023 and 2025. It’s one of Kentucky’s most dynamic low-cost housing markets.
Evarts – From Mining Past to Price Growth
Evarts, located in Harlan County, has deep roots in coal mining. As that industry faded, the town adapted slowly—but now, home prices are moving fast. Major jumps in 2023 and 2025 show that buyer interest is real, likely driven by affordability and renewed attention to rural living.
Evarts also draws ATV and off-road enthusiasts, thanks to its location near the Black Mountain Off-Road Adventure Area. That has sparked small-scale tourism and investor activity. While still highly affordable, Evarts may be transforming from an overlooked town to a high-opportunity one.
6. McRoberts – 67% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $38,885
- 2017: $39,187 (+$302, +0.78% from previous year)
- 2018: $39,418 (+$231, +0.59% from previous year)
- 2019: $37,078 (-$2,341, -5.94% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $48,988
- 2022: $51,958 (+$2,970, +6.06% from previous year)
- 2023: $54,269 (+$2,310, +4.45% from previous year)
- 2024: $57,113 (+$2,845, +5.24% from previous year)
- 2025: $64,961 (+$7,848, +13.74% from previous year)
McRoberts has gained nearly 67% in home values since 2016, climbing from below $39,000 to just under $65,000. It’s one of the few towns on this list that shows consistent yearly gains since 2021, a sign of slow and steady momentum.
McRoberts – Quiet Momentum in a Historic Coal Camp
Located in Letcher County, McRoberts was originally built as a coal camp in the early 20th century. Its grid-style layout and narrow roads still reflect that era. Though economic shifts have hit the region hard, housing prices have steadily improved over the last few years.
With limited inventory and relatively low turnover, price increases are driven by gradual demand and minimal new construction. In 2025, the town’s nearly 14% price jump stands out, suggesting more buyers are entering the market—possibly lured by natural beauty and low baseline costs.
5. Holmes Mill – 55% Home Price Increase Since 2016
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: $41,258
- 2017: $40,754 (-$504, -1.22% from previous year)
- 2018: $42,518 (+$1,764, +4.33% from previous year)
- 2019: $45,547 (+$3,029, +7.12% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $54,291
- 2022: $54,078 (-$213, -0.39% from previous year)
- 2023: $56,621 (+$2,544, +4.70% from previous year)
- 2024: $57,093 (+$472, +0.83% from previous year)
- 2025: $64,012 (+$6,919, +12.12% from previous year)
Holmes Mill has seen a 55% increase in home prices since 2016, ending 2025 just above $64,000. While yearly gains have varied, the market shows strength, with a notable 12% jump in the most recent year.
Holmes Mill – Solid Growth in a Tight-Knit Community
Holmes Mill, located in Harlan County, reflects many of the challenges and strengths of Kentucky’s southeastern corner. Once tied closely to mining, the town has transitioned into a quieter residential community. With little development and a close-knit feel, it’s ideal for buyers who value seclusion and space.
Although prices stagnated slightly in 2022 and 2024, 2025’s double-digit increase points to renewed demand. That could be due to its low base price, appeal among first-time buyers, or regional market spillover from nearby towns. Either way, the housing market here continues to show gradual improvement.
4. Wayland – 46% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $43,756
- 2019: $42,202 (-$1,554, -3.55% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $49,279
- 2022: $52,810 (+$3,530, +7.16% from previous year)
- 2023: $51,890 (-$920, -1.74% from previous year)
- 2024: $53,062 (+$1,172, +2.26% from previous year)
- 2025: $63,777 (+$10,715, +20.19% from previous year)
Wayland’s home prices have climbed 46% since 2018, with a dramatic 20% surge in 2025 alone. The recent growth outpaces previous years, making it one of the most rapidly appreciating towns on this list.
Wayland – Big Jump in a Small Market
Wayland is situated in Floyd County and has long remained one of Kentucky’s quieter towns. Originally a coal company settlement, it now offers peaceful rural living for fewer than 500 residents. Housing inventory is low, which has helped fuel significant price jumps when sales occur.
The 2025 spike in home values is notable and may reflect increased buyer interest from within the state. With a mix of older homes and scenic surroundings, Wayland presents opportunity for investors or budget-minded families. Despite rapid recent growth, it still remains highly affordable by national standards.
3. Wheelwright – 51% Home Price Increase Since 2018
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: N/A
- 2016: N/A
- 2017: N/A
- 2018: $41,521
- 2019: $35,784 (-$5,737, -13.82% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $45,201
- 2022: $47,775 (+$2,574, +5.69% from previous year)
- 2023: $52,319 (+$4,544, +9.51% from previous year)
- 2024: $53,747 (+$1,428, +2.73% from previous year)
- 2025: $62,611 (+$8,865, +16.49% from previous year)
Wheelwright’s housing market has grown 51% since 2018, fueled by consistent year-over-year gains since 2021. Prices are now over $62,000, and 2025’s nearly 17% jump marks a high point for this recovering market.
Wheelwright – Rebounding Strong from Early Lows
Wheelwright, in Floyd County, took a major hit in 2019 with a sharp drop in home values. But the recovery has been strong and sustained. Formerly a coal town, it’s now seeing reinvestment and community revitalization efforts.
The consistent increases from 2021 through 2025 reflect rising buyer confidence. Wheelwright offers access to natural beauty and Appalachian culture, with a backdrop of hills and hollows that appeal to those seeking seclusion and heritage. Its low starting point makes the recent growth especially notable.
2. Jenkins – 66% Home Price Increase Since 2012
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: $37,605
- 2013: $37,080 (-$525, -1.40% from previous year)
- 2014: $38,908 (+$1,828, +4.93% from previous year)
- 2015: $39,005 (+$96, +0.25% from previous year)
- 2016: $44,166 (+$5,161, +13.23% from previous year)
- 2017: $43,303 (-$863, -1.95% from previous year)
- 2018: $44,611 (+$1,308, +3.02% from previous year)
- 2019: $44,044 (-$567, -1.27% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $58,947
- 2022: $60,962 (+$2,014, +3.42% from previous year)
- 2023: $64,906 (+$3,944, +6.47% from previous year)
- 2024: $60,039 (-$4,866, -7.50% from previous year)
- 2025: $62,484 (+$2,444, +4.07% from previous year)
Jenkins has experienced a 66% increase in home prices since 2012, climbing from $37,605 to over $62,000. While price growth has been somewhat uneven, the overall trajectory remains upward, with 2025 continuing the rebound after a dip in 2024.
Jenkins – Gradual Climb with Appalachian Character
Jenkins is a small city in Letcher County with a history steeped in coal mining and union activity. Originally a company town, it has evolved into a close-knit community with rich Appalachian heritage and modest real estate offerings. The town is surrounded by forested ridges and quiet hollows.
The housing market here reflects slow growth, but sustained interest over time. Jenkins saw a substantial gain post-2020 and remains appealing due to low starting prices and its proximity to the Virginia border. Though the 2024 setback was notable, the bounce in 2025 suggests renewed confidence from buyers looking for value and character.
1. Cumberland – 116% Home Price Increase Since 2015
- 2010: N/A
- 2011: N/A
- 2012: N/A
- 2013: N/A
- 2014: N/A
- 2015: $26,029
- 2016: $26,623 (+$594, +2.28% from previous year)
- 2017: $27,160 (+$537, +2.02% from previous year)
- 2018: $28,307 (+$1,146, +4.22% from previous year)
- 2019: $28,506 (+$200, +0.71% from previous year)
- 2020: N/A
- 2021: $34,471
- 2022: $36,665 (+$2,194, +6.37% from previous year)
- 2023: $42,834 (+$6,169, +16.82% from previous year)
- 2024: $47,850 (+$5,016, +11.71% from previous year)
- 2025: $56,279 (+$8,429, +17.61% from previous year)
Cumberland tops the list with a massive 116% increase in home values since 2015. Its market has grown dramatically in the past three years alone, with especially strong gains in both 2023 and 2025. Yet even after all this growth, homes remain very affordable at around $56,000.
Cumberland – Leading the Pack in Price Gains
Cumberland is another historic coal town located in Harlan County, nestled in the valley of Looney Creek. It’s the largest of the Tri-Cities (Cumberland, Benham, and Lynch), and serves as a cultural anchor in the region with its annual Kingdom Come Swappin’ Meetin’ and connection to nearby Kingdom Come State Park.
The town’s affordable housing stock, combined with regional economic development initiatives and a rise in remote work, likely contributed to the recent surge in values. Cumberland’s upward trend shows that even deeply rural markets can experience strong appreciation when conditions align—and for now, it remains an extremely cost-effective place to own property in Kentucky.
