Fayette County, KY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
323,725
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,479/yr
2.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
148,959
0.8% year-over-year change

Fayette County population

How many people live in Fayette County

Fayette County is home to 323,725 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Fayette County locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
323,725
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
159,573
Female
50.7%
164,152
Value Percent YoY change
Male 159,573 49.3% 0.9%
Female 164,152 50.7% 0.7%
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 Fayette County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.3% are children under 15, then 17.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.1% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.3%
15 to 24
17.3%
25 to 44
28.1%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
14.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 56,106 17.3% -0.1%
15 to 24 56,068 17.3% 1.1%
25 to 44 91,056 28.1% 0.9%
45 to 64 72,869 22.5% -0.3%
Over 65 47,626 14.7% 3.1%
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 Fayette County, 86.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.4% of locals are Caucasian, 14.5% are African American and 4.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
86.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.4%
Non-citizens
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 281,285 86.9% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 17,612 5.4% 6.2%
Non-citizens 24,828 7.7% 11.3%
Racial breakdown
White
68.4%
Black or African American
14.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.9%
Other
3.7%
Value Percent
White 221,483 68.4%
Black or African American 46,839 14.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 714 0.2%
Asian 14,103 4.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 33 0%
Two or more races 28,714 8.9%
Other 11,839 3.7%

Households in Fayette County

A peek inside Fayette County households

Fayette County has 139,715 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.4% are families, while the remaining 45.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
139,715
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
63,648
Family households
76,067
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 63,648 45.6% 2.0%
Family households 76,067 54.4% 0.9%
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 Fayette County

The housing landscape of Fayette County

Fayette County's housing consists of 148,959 units, with 58.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.5% 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 1.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
148,959
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 86,998 58.4%
1 unit, attached 9,687 6.5%
2 units 4,303 2.9%
3 or 4 units 7,795 5.2%
5 to 9 units 10,489 7%
10 to 19 units 13,348 9%
20 to 49 units 6,650 4.5%
50 or more units 8,030 5.4%
Mobile home 1,595 1.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 64 0%
Homes built since 2020
2,537
60.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fayette County

In Fayette County, the median construction year is 1984. About 6.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 10,097 6.8% 1.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,809 2.6% -5.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 12,382 8.3% -1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 19,414 13% -1.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 21,222 14.2% -0.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 19,036 12.8% -0.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 22,552 15.1% -2.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 23,089 15.5% 7.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 14,821 10% 0.1%
Built in 2020 or later 2,537 1.7% 60.5%
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.

Fayette County occupancy rates

Out of the 139,715 occupied housing units in Fayette County, 53.8% are owner-occupied, while 46.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
139,715
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
64,594
Owner occupied
75,121
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 64,594 46.2% 1.1%
Owner occupied 75,121 53.8% 1.7%
Unoccupied housing units
6.2%
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.

Fayette County housing costs

Housing costs in Fayette County come to a median of $1,213 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,164.

Median housing costs per month
$1,213/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 Fayette County
$1,164/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 Fayette County

Fayette County education at a glance

About 24.6% of the population in Fayette County went to high school, while 22.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.7% earned an associate degree and 26% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 17.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 7,135 2.8% 10.8%
High school diploma 63,059 24.6% -0.4%
College diploma 57,055 22.3% -1.6%
Associate degree 17,131 6.7% -1.6%
Bachelor's degree 66,472 26% 4.0%
Graduate degree 44,949 17.6% 1.5%
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 Fayette County

How much people earn in Fayette County

The average annual household income in Fayette County was $101,608 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,479, reflecting a +2.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fayette County
$101,608/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fayette County
$69,479/year
2.7% year-over-year change

Fayette County income by age

In Fayette County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $77,456. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $90,871 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $29,725, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $59,717 in earnings. Overall, 85.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $29,725 2.6%
25 - 44 $77,456 5.8%
45 - 64 $90,871 2.8%
Over 65 $59,717 -1.9%
Above poverty level
262,001
Below poverty level
45,460
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 262,001 85.2% 1.6%
Below poverty level 45,460 14.8% -4.3%

Employment in Fayette County

Workforce and job types in Fayette County

The job market in Fayette County is powered by 171,716 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 83.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 64.4% are employed by private companies, and 16.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
171,716
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
143,395
Blue collar
28,321
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 143,395 83.5% 2.1%
Blue collar 28,321 16.5% 1.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
64.4%
Governmental workers
16.7%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 15,871 9.2% -0.6%
Private companies 110,523 64.4% 3.2%
Governmental workers 28,718 16.7% -0.1%
Not for profit companies 16,604 9.7% -0.2%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
-1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fayette County stands at 4.8%, 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 Fayette County

How people get around in Fayette County

Commuting methods vary: 81.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 136,936 81.8% 0.1%
Taxicab 289 0.2% 87.7%
Bus or trolleybus 2,466 1.5% 15.5%
Subway or elevated 11 0% N/A
Ferryboat 17 0% -22.7%
Motorcycle 240 0.1% -10.1%
Bicycle 777 0.5% -9.1%
Walk 5,147 3.1% 3.1%
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 Fayette County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40502 26,122 13,075 $76,948 $135,544
40503 27,451 12,615 $76,482 $106,180
40504 25,816 12,412 $46,055 $62,692
40505 25,594 11,223 $58,206 $78,672
40507 2,159 1,573 $41,329 $100,402
40508 23,756 9,665 $29,440 $57,194
40509 47,036 19,395 $94,804 $124,548
40510 1,904 417 $161,938 $191,191
40511 38,176 14,824 $79,540 $100,183

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FAQs about Fayette County demographics 

What is the total population of Fayette County?

Fayette County has a total population of 323,725 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fayette County?

The gender ratio in Fayette County is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (159,573 residents)
  • 50.7% females (164,152 residents)

What is the median age in Fayette County?

The median age in Fayette County is 35.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fayette County?

The age distribution in Fayette County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.3% (56,106 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.3% (56,068 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.1% (91,056 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (72,869 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.7% (47,626 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fayette County is as follows:
  • White: 68.4% (221,483 residents)
  • Black or African American: 14.5% (46,839 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (714 residents)
  • Asian: 4.4% (14,103 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (33 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.9% (28,714 residents)
  • Other: 3.7% (11,839 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 86.9% of the population in Fayette County.

How many housing units are there in Fayette County?

There are 148,959 housing units in Fayette County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fayette County has a total of 139,715 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fayette County?

Fayette County has a median household income of $69,479, representing a +2.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fayette County?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Fayette County, with a workforce of 171,716 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 83.5% (143,395 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16.5% (28,321 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (15,871 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.4% (110,523 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.7% (28,718 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (16,604 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