Bardstown, KY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
13,804
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,381/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,820
-3.9% year-over-year change

Bardstown population

How many people live in Bardstown

Bardstown is home to 13,804 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.7% of Bardstown locals are male, and 48.3% are female.

Total population
13,804
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.7%
7,139
Female
48.3%
6,665
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,139 51.7% 3.3%
Female 6,665 48.3% -1.4%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Bardstown is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.7% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 24.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.7%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
24.1%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,995 21.7% 6.3%
15 to 24 1,493 10.8% 8.7%
25 to 44 3,690 26.7% 0.0%
45 to 64 3,323 24.1% -3.3%
Over 65 2,303 16.7% -2.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Bardstown, 93.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 78.5% of locals are Caucasian, 13.8% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.2%
Non-citizens
4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,946 93.8% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 299 2.2% -6.0%
Non-citizens 559 4% 29.4%
Racial breakdown
White
78.5%
Black or African American
13.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
1.1%
Value Percent
White 10,837 78.5%
Black or African American 1,899 13.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.1%
Asian 38 0.3%
Two or more races 861 6.2%
Other 156 1.1%

Households in Bardstown

A peek inside Bardstown households

Bardstown has 5,677 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.6% are families, while the remaining 37.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,677
-2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,122
Family households
3,555
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,122 37.4% -3.9%
Family households 3,555 62.6% -1.8%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Bardstown

The housing landscape of Bardstown

Bardstown's housing consists of 5,820 units, with 69.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,820
-3.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,053 69.6%
1 unit, attached 297 5.1%
2 units 308 5.3%
3 or 4 units 482 8.3%
5 to 9 units 416 7.2%
10 to 19 units 157 2.7%
20 to 49 units 27 0.5%
Mobile home 80 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
151
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bardstown

In Bardstown, the median construction year is 1985. About 5.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 333 5.7% -18.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 213 3.7% -0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 444 7.6% -30.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 427 7.3% -13.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,076 18.5% -4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 919 15.8% 4.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 988 17% -13.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 732 12.6% 9.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 537 9.2% 8.5%
Built in 2020 or later 151 2.6% N/A
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Bardstown occupancy rates

Out of the 5,677 occupied housing units in Bardstown, 61.1% are owner-occupied, while 38.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 2.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,677
-2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,207
Owner occupied
3,470
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,207 38.9% -8.6%
Owner occupied 3,470 61.1% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
2.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Bardstown housing costs

Housing costs in Bardstown come to a median of $864 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $977.

Median housing costs per month
$864/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Bardstown
$977/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Bardstown

Bardstown education at a glance

About 46.1% of the population in Bardstown went to high school, while 18.4% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 13.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 518 4.9% 58.4%
High school diploma 4,832 46.1% -1.4%
College diploma 1,925 18.4% -9.6%
Associate degree 666 6.4% -16.5%
Bachelor's degree 1,417 13.5% 0.1%
Graduate degree 1,127 10.8% 16.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Bardstown

How much people earn in Bardstown

The average annual household income in Bardstown was $74,741 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,381, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bardstown
$74,741/year
7.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bardstown
$51,381/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Bardstown income by age

In Bardstown, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,051. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $52,489 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,679, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,250 in earnings. Overall, 85.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,679 13.2%
25 - 44 $66,051 -6.8%
45 - 64 $52,489 5.4%
Over 65 $46,250 10.2%
Above poverty level
11,324
Below poverty level
1,957
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,324 85.3% -3.1%
Below poverty level 1,957 14.7% 44.1%

Average renter income in Bardstown

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Bardstown, their median household income was $34,247 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,247
Rent-to-income ratio
34.2%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Bardstown

Workforce and job types in Bardstown

The job market in Bardstown is powered by 6,430 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 66% are employed by private companies, and 13.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,430
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
4,501
Blue collar
1,929
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,501 70% 5.0%
Blue collar 1,929 30% -7.2%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
66%
Governmental workers
13.2%
Not for profit companies
10%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 696 10.8% 2.0%
Private companies 4,242 66% -3.1%
Governmental workers 852 13.2% 1.4%
Not for profit companies 640 10% 37.0%
Unemployment rate
4.0%
-4.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bardstown stands at 4%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Bardstown

How people get around in Bardstown

In Bardstown, the average commute time is 20 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
20 min
1.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 5,743 90.1% 0.6%
Walk 91 1.4% 5.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Bardstown by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40004 30,601 12,519 $66,578 $86,718

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FAQs about Bardstown demographics 

What is the total population of Bardstown?

Bardstown has a total population of 13,804 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bardstown?

The gender ratio in Bardstown is as follows:
  • 51.7% males (7,139 residents)
  • 48.3% females (6,665 residents)

What is the median age in Bardstown?

The median age in Bardstown is 38.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bardstown?

The age distribution in Bardstown is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.7% (2,995 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (1,493 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (3,690 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.1% (3,323 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (2,303 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bardstown?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bardstown is as follows:
  • White: 78.5% (10,837 residents)
  • Black or African American: 13.8% (1,899 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (38 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (861 residents)
  • Other: 1.1% (156 residents)

What percentage of the population in Bardstown are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.8% of the population in Bardstown.

How many housing units are there in Bardstown?

There are 5,820 housing units in Bardstown, reflecting a -3.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Bardstown and what is the average household size?

Bardstown has a total of 5,677 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bardstown?

Bardstown has a median household income of $51,381, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Bardstown?

The employment rate is 96% in Bardstown, with a workforce of 6,430 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70% (4,501 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30% (1,929 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (696 residents)
  • Private companies: 66% (4,242 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.2% (852 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10% (640 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025