Median Income
$76,389
2% higher than US avg
Home Value
$207,900
26% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
221/100K
42% lower than US avg
Bachelor's+
39.1%
16% higher than US avg
Median Rent
$803
31% lower than US avg
Obesity Rate
31.0%
3% lower than US avg
Unemployment
5.3%
47% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
3.7%
70% lower than US avg
How Russell Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population3,696
Median Age41.7 yrs
Density970/mi²
Male / Female50% / 50%
Largest GroupWhite 90%
Veterans7.1%
Economy
A
Median Income$76,389
Per Capita$40,600
Unemployment5.3%
Poverty3.7%
County GDP$3,758M
Commute30 min
Housing
A+
Home Value$207,900
Rent$803
Ownership81.5%
Zillow$222,318
Housing Units1,634
Rent Burden19.7%
Crime
F
Violent221/100K
Property775/100K
Health
Obesity31.0%
Uninsured1.9%
Climate
Avg Temp54°F (12°C)
AQI42 (Good)
Rain46.7 in/yr
Elevation663 ft (202 m)
Education
A
Bachelor's+39.1%
High School+94.9%
Graduate+15.9%
School Score5.85
Community
2024 VoteR 69% / D 30%
Commute30 min
Broadband87.6%
EV Stations3
Libraries3
Is Russell a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Russell receives an overall livability score of 3.5 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B+. Key strengths include low crime rates, a highly educated population, affordable housing, a low poverty rate. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment. Russell offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Russell is $76,389, roughly in line with the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 5.3% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. Only 3.7% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 30 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Russell is $207,900, 26% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $803 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 2.7x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
Violent crime in Russell is below the national average at 221 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 775 per 100,000, 60% below the national average.
Education
Educational attainment is solid, with 39.1% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, near the national average. 94.9% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.9/10.
Climate & Weather
Russell experiences four distinct seasons with an average temperature of 54°F. Winters average 31°F in January while summers reach 75°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 46.7 inches, including 19.8 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 42.
Russell has a population of 3,696 with a density of 970 people per square mile, spread across 3.0 square miles. The median age is 41.7 years, 7% older than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 50% female and 50% male. The city is predominantly White (90.2%), with 2.3% Asian. English is the primary language spoken at home by 97.7% of residents. 7.1% of the population are veterans. 17.8% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 98.1% have health insurance coverage.
Population
3,696
Total Population
2023 Census
41.7yrs
Median Age
7% above US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
97.7%
24% above US avg
Spanish
2.7%
80% below US avg
The median household income in Russell is $76,389, which is 2% above the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $40,600. The average weekly wage is $1,139, 20% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 5.3% (above the 3.6% US average). 3.7% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 1,796 business establishments, including 131 restaurants. The cost of living index is 90.2, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 30 minutes. 6.2% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $76,389 |
| 2% above US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $40,600 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $1,139 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $63,553 |
| Gini Index | 0.463 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 5.3% |
| 47% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 3.7% |
| 70% below US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 1,796 |
| County GDP | $3,758M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 131 |
| Healthcare | 156 |
| Retail | 223 |
| Manufacturing | 38 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $3,902 |
| 11% above US avg |
| Cost of Living | 90.20 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 1.88% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 30.0 min |
| Drive Alone | 82.7% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 6.2% |
The median home value in Russell is $207,900, 26% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $222,318. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $239,900 with homes selling in an average of 92 days. Homes sell for 94.4% of their list price, suggesting buyers have room to negotiate. Monthly rent averages $803 (31% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $660 for a one-bedroom to $866 for a two-bedroom apartment. 81.5% of housing units are owner-occupied (above the 65.4% national rate). There are 1,634 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1967. The average annual property tax is $3,902. 19.7% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.7x, well within the affordable range.
Home Values
| Census Median | $207,900 |
| 26% below US avg |
| Zillow ZHVI | $222,318 |
| Redfin Median Sale | $239,900 |
| Median List Price | $225,000 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
| Median Sale Price | $239,900 |
| Median List Price | $225,000 |
| $/Sq Ft | $95 |
| Homes Sold | 3 |
| Days on Market | 92 days |
| Sale-to-List Ratio | 94.4% |
| Price Drops | 0.0% |
| Inventory | 10 |
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $803 |
| 31% below US avg |
| Rent Burden | 19.7% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $619 |
| 1 Bedroom | $660 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $866 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,038 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,147 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 81.5% |
| Owner-Occupied | 81.5% |
| Renter-Occupied | 18.5% |
| Housing Units | 1,634 |
| Median Year Built | 1967 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $3,902 |
| 11% above US avg |
| Effective Rate | 1.88% |
In Russell, 31.0% of adults are obese, below the national rate of 32.1%. 1.9% of residents lack health insurance (below the 8.6% national rate). The primary care physician ratio is 1:998. The dentist ratio is 1:1,375. 64.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 6.3 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Russell vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 31.0% |
| 3% below US avg |
Behaviors & Mental Health
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 98.1% |
| Uninsured | 1.9% |
| 78% below US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:998 |
| Dentists | 1:1,375 |
| Mental Health | 1:128 |
| Dental Visits | 62.6% |
| Premature Death | 13,628/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 6.3/10 |
| Exercise Access | 64.2% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 156 |
Russell has a violent crime rate of 221 per 100,000 residents, 42% below the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 775 per 100,000, 60% below the U.S. average. The county recorded 2 fatal traffic crashes. The area has experienced 91 federally declared disasters. Overall, Russell receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Russell vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 221.4/100K |
| 42% below US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 774.8/100K |
| 60% below US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 2 |
| Traffic Accidents | 1 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 3.0 / 4.0 |
| FEMA Disasters | 91 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Russell experiences four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of 54°F (12°C). Winters average 31°F in January while summers reach 75°F in July. Annual precipitation totals 46.7 inches (wetter than the 38-inch national average). The area receives 19.8 inches of snow annually, a moderate snowfall amount. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 42. 75% of days have good air quality. The city sits at an elevation of 663 feet.
Temperature
31°F Jan (-0°C)
75°F Jul (24°C)
| Annual Average | 53.8°F |
| 0% below US avg |
| January Average | 31°F (-0°C) |
| July Average | 75°F (24°C) |
Geography
| Elevation | 663 ft (202 m) |
| Area | 3.0 sq mi (7.8 km²) |
| Population Density | 970/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 38.5130°N, 82.6960°W |
| Timezone | America/New_York |
| County | Boyd County County |
| Nearest Airport | Greater Portsmouth Regional (PMH)
24 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
46.7"
23% above US avg
Wettest Month (May)
4.85"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 42.0 |
| Rating | Good |
| Good Days % | 75.3% |
| Unhealthy Days | 0 |
Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)
| Ozone (O₃) | 0.0465 ppm |
| NO₂ (Nitrogen Dioxide) | 9.0 ppb |
| SO₂ (Sulfur Dioxide) | 0.60 ppb |
| PM2.5 (Fine Particles) | 8.1 μg/m³ |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Relatively Low |
| Risk Score | 74.9 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 58.8 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 58.8 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Relatively Low |
| Hurricane |
Very Low |
| Earthquake |
Very Low |
| Wildfire |
Relatively Low |
| Flood |
Relatively Moderate |
| Hail |
Relatively Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively Low |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively High |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively Moderate |
| Lightning |
Relatively Moderate |
| Ice Storm |
Relatively Moderate |
| Drought |
Very Low |
| Cold Wave |
Very Low |
| Landslide |
Relatively Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
26 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M3.6. Most recent: M2.8 on Feb 3, 2025.
| Feb 19, 1995 |
8 km SSE of Rocky Fork Point, Ohio |
M3.6 |
95 km |
| Nov 20, 2013 |
2 km SW of Buchtel, Ohio |
M3.5 |
112 km |
| May 24, 2017 |
1 km S of McArthur, Ohio |
M3.4 |
82 km |
| Apr 24, 2009 |
7 km ENE of Rio Grande, Ohio |
M3.4 |
55 km |
| Sep 8, 1990 |
5 km N of Owingsville, Kentucky |
M3.3 |
100 km |
| Feb 3, 2025 |
2 km NNW of Oak Hill, Ohio |
M3.1 |
46 km |
| Jun 28, 1991 |
4 km ENE of Pratt, West Virginia |
M3.0 |
123 km |
| Apr 25, 2020 |
2 km SE of South Shore, Kentucky |
M2.9 |
30 km |
| Feb 3, 2025 |
0 km NE of Reno, Ohio |
M2.8 |
148 km |
| Mar 17, 1999 |
2 km NNE of Ripley, Ohio |
M2.8 |
102 km |
| May 6, 2002 |
3 km SE of Racine, Ohio |
M2.8 |
85 km |
| Jun 21, 2017 |
1 km SW of Pratt, West Virginia |
M2.7 |
118 km |
| May 11, 2015 |
5 km ESE of Maysville, Kentucky |
M2.6 |
87 km |
| Jun 6, 2014 |
13 km NNE of Sissonville, West Virginia |
M2.6 |
98 km |
| Mar 16, 2012 |
7 km SE of Alum Creek, West Virginia |
M2.6 |
88 km |
| Oct 2, 1998 |
10 km NE of Sylvester, West Virginia |
M2.6 |
118 km |
| Mar 8, 2016 |
0 km N of Thurman, Ohio |
M2.6 |
49 km |
| Feb 11, 2015 |
8 km SE of Richmond Dale, Ohio |
M2.6 |
71 km |
| Jul 23, 2013 |
6 km NNE of Germantown, Kentucky |
M2.6 |
111 km |
| Jan 28, 2024 |
3 km SW of Old Washington, Kentucky |
M2.5 |
100 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990-2025)
Tornado History
161 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF5. Total: 9 fatalities, 170 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Apr 23, 1968 |
EF5 |
23 km |
7 |
| May 10, 2003 |
EF3 |
90 km |
0 |
| Apr 3, 1974 |
EF3 |
86 km |
1 |
| Apr 23, 1968 |
EF3 |
32 km |
0 |
| May 7, 1967 |
EF3 |
88 km |
0 |
| Apr 8, 1965 |
EF3 |
16 km |
0 |
| Apr 8, 1965 |
EF3 |
47 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 2024 |
EF2 |
26 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 2024 |
EF2 |
64 km |
0 |
| Apr 2, 2024 |
EF2 |
78 km |
0 |
| Jun 8, 2022 |
EF2 |
96 km |
0 |
| Jul 4, 2016 |
EF2 |
46 km |
0 |
| Mar 2, 2012 |
EF2 |
79 km |
1 |
| Feb 29, 2012 |
EF2 |
92 km |
0 |
| May 8, 2002 |
EF2 |
50 km |
0 |
| Jun 15, 2000 |
EF2 |
37 km |
0 |
| May 18, 1995 |
EF2 |
81 km |
0 |
| Jun 16, 1982 |
EF2 |
56 km |
0 |
| Jun 16, 1982 |
EF2 |
97 km |
0 |
| Jun 9, 1981 |
EF2 |
97 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950-2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: BRUSHY (61,231 ac, 1987).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 1987 |
BRUSHY |
61,231 |
83 km |
| 1987 |
UNNAMED |
38,312 |
83 km |
| 1991 |
JENNINGS CREEK |
29,308 |
77 km |
| 1987 |
UNNAMED |
27,317 |
93 km |
| 1991 |
WHITE OAK BRANCH |
25,550 |
95 km |
| 1987 |
UNNAMED |
21,562 |
69 km |
| 1987 |
UNNAMED |
20,994 |
83 km |
| 1987 |
RUCKERS BRANCH |
14,744 |
96 km |
| 1987 |
UNNAMED |
14,554 |
74 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
14,264 |
94 km |
| 1991 |
ROCK HOUSE BRANCH |
13,056 |
90 km |
| 1991 |
UNNAMED |
10,183 |
74 km |
| 1995 |
UNNAMED |
10,148 |
84 km |
| 1991 |
CANE ROCK |
9,017 |
88 km |
| 2001 |
UNNAMED |
8,287 |
96 km |
| 1987 |
UNNAMED |
7,281 |
89 km |
| 1987 |
MILL CREEK ROAD |
7,029 |
59 km |
| 1987 |
UNNAMED |
6,337 |
79 km |
| 1987 |
PLUM BRANCH |
6,223 |
58 km |
| 2001 |
UNNAMED |
5,981 |
77 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
31°F (-0°C) |
3.5 in |
Coldest |
| February |
34°F (1°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| March |
43°F (6°C) |
4.4 in |
|
| April |
54°F (12°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| May |
63°F (17°C) |
4.9 in |
Wettest |
| June |
72°F (22°C) |
4.5 in |
|
| July |
75°F (24°C) |
4.6 in |
Warmest |
| August |
74°F (23°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| September |
67°F (19°C) |
3.3 in |
|
| October |
55°F (13°C) |
3.0 in |
Driest |
| November |
43°F (6°C) |
3.0 in |
|
| December |
36°F (2°C) |
4.2 in |
|
Russell has a seasonal temperature swing of 44°F / from 31°F in January to 75°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 46.7 inches, with May being the wettest month (4.9") and October the driest (3.0").
Average costs for common services in Russell. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$226 ($135-$361) |
| Specialist Visit |
$316 ($180-$496) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$180 ($90-$316) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$1,984 ($722-$4,510) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$117 ($68-$180) |
| Dental Filling |
$226 ($135-$361) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$41 ($23-$68) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$68 ($45-$108) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$271 ($135-$451) |
| Tire Rotation |
$36 ($18-$68) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$541 ($361-$902) |
| Battery Replacement |
$180 ($90-$316) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$90 ($54-$135) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$81 ($45-$126) |
| HVAC Repair |
$361 ($135-$722) |
| HVAC System Install |
$6,314 ($3,608-$10,824) |
| Roof Repair |
$902 ($361-$1,804) |
| Roof Replacement |
$8,118 ($4,961-$13,530) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,353 ($451-$3,157) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$13,530 ($4,510-$27,060) |
| DUI Defense |
$4,510 ($1,804-$9,020) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,353 ($722-$2,706) |
| Will Preparation |
$451 ($180-$902) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,255 ($902-$4,510) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$23 ($14-$41) |
| Women's Haircut |
$50 ($27-$90) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$135 ($68-$226) |
| Manicure |
$23 ($14-$41) |
| Pedicure |
$36 ($23-$59) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$72 ($45-$117) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$3.70 ($2.71-$4.96) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.16 ($2.26-$4.51) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.43 ($2.26-$4.96) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.06 ($2.71-$5.86) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$4.96 ($3.61-$6.77) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$0.90 ($0.54-$1.62) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$126 ($72-$226) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$63 ($27-$135) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$63 ($36-$108) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$63 ($36-$90) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$59 ($27-$90) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$77 ($45-$135) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$180 ($68-$451) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$1,804 ($1,082-$3,157) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$63 ($27-$117) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$14 ($7.22-$23) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$90 ($27-$226) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$27 ($14-$68) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,082 ($541-$2,255) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$902 ($451-$1,804) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$361 ($180-$631) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$45 ($23-$90) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$902 ($361-$2,255) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$11,275 ($4,510-$27,060) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$54 ($27-$90) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$90 ($45-$180) |
| Dog Grooming |
$54 ($27-$90) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$36 ($18-$68) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$271 ($135-$451) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$180 ($90-$361) |
View all 9 services
Childcare
| Center-Based (monthly) |
| Infant | $465 |
| Toddler | $464 |
| Preschool | $464 |
| Family Childcare (monthly) |
| Infant | $359 |
| Toddler | $359 |
| Preschool | $359 |
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About Russell
What is the population of Russell?
Russell has a population of 3,696 residents and is located in Kentucky. The population density is 970 people per square mile, spread across 3.0 square miles. The median age of residents is 41.7 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 50% female and 50% male.
Is Russell expensive to live in?
Russell is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 90.2 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $76,389, 2% above the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $207,900 (26% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $803 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Russell safe?
Russell is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 221 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 775 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Russell receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Russell?
Russell has a four-season climate with an average annual temperature of 54°F (12°C). Winter temperatures average 31°F in January, while summers reach an average of 75°F in July. Annual rainfall totals 46.7 inches, with 19.8 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 42.
How is the job market in Russell?
The unemployment rate in Russell is 5.3%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $1,139. There are 1,796 business establishments in the area, including 131 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 30 minutes, and 6.2% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Russell?
The median home value in Russell is $207,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $222,318. According to Redfin, the median sale price is $239,900, with homes typically selling within 92 days. For renters, the median monthly rent is $803. Fair market rent is $660 for a 1-bedroom and $866 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 81.5%. The average annual property tax is $3,902.
How are the schools in Russell?
Schools in Russell score 5.9 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 39.1% of adults in Russell hold a bachelor's degree or higher, above the national average of 33.7%. 94.9% have completed high school. 15.9% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Russell?
The obesity rate in Russell is 31.0% (below the national rate of 32.1%). 1.9% lack health insurance (below the national rate). 64.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:998.
What is transportation like in Russell?
The average commute in Russell is 30 minutes. 82.7% of workers drive alone to work, and 6.2% work from home.
What are the demographics of Russell?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Russell is 90.2% White, 0.6% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian. 97.7% of residents speak only English at home. 7.1% of the population are military veterans. 17.8% of residents have a disability. 98.1% have health insurance coverage.