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

Total population
36,630
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,772/yr
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,425
-0.1% year-over-year change

Graves County population

How many people live in Graves County

Graves County is home to 36,630 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Graves County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
36,630
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
18,120
Female
50.5%
18,510
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,120 49.5% 0.1%
Female 18,510 50.5% 0.0%
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 Graves County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.2% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.7% of the population, while another 25.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.2%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
23.7%
45 to 64
25.9%
Over 65
18.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 7,404 20.2% -0.7%
15 to 24 4,302 11.7% 0.8%
25 to 44 8,690 23.7% 1.1%
45 to 64 9,481 25.9% -1.0%
Over 65 6,753 18.4% 0.7%
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 Graves County, 97% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86% of locals are Caucasian, 4.2% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 35,530 97% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 598 1.6% -8.6%
Non-citizens 502 1.4% -2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
86%
Black or African American
4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
3.3%
Value Percent
White 31,507 86%
Black or African American 1,527 4.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 84 0.2%
Asian 171 0.5%
Two or more races 2,128 5.8%
Other 1,213 3.3%

Households in Graves County

A peek inside Graves County households

Graves County has 14,139 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 67.8% are families, while the remaining 32.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,139
-0.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
4,554
Family households
9,585
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,554 32.2% -4.8%
Family households 9,585 67.8% 2.3%
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 Graves County

The housing landscape of Graves County

Graves County's housing consists of 16,425 units, with 80.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 11% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,425
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,216 80.5%
1 unit, attached 147 0.9%
2 units 399 2.4%
3 or 4 units 474 2.9%
5 to 9 units 75 0.5%
10 to 19 units 73 0.4%
20 to 49 units 87 0.5%
50 or more units 50 0.3%
Mobile home 1,802 11%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 102 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
230
147.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Graves County

In Graves County, the median construction year is 1977. About 5.1% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 832 5.1% 3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 948 5.8% 11.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,069 12.6% 4.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,201 13.4% 0.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,262 19.9% 8.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,007 12.2% -12.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,830 11.1% -11.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,850 11.3% -0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,196 7.3% -8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 230 1.4% 147.3%
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.

Graves County occupancy rates

Out of the 14,139 occupied housing units in Graves County, 76.1% are owner-occupied, while 23.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,139
-0.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,384
Owner occupied
10,755
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,384 23.9% 1.3%
Owner occupied 10,755 76.1% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
13.9%
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.

Graves County housing costs

Housing costs in Graves County come to a median of $779 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $775.

Median housing costs per month
$779/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 Graves County
$775/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 Graves County

Graves County education at a glance

About 48.6% of the population in Graves County went to high school, while 19.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.4% earned an associate degree and 9.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,177 4.2% 4.4%
High school diploma 13,510 48.6% -1.9%
College diploma 5,497 19.8% 6.0%
Associate degree 2,890 10.4% -5.5%
Bachelor's degree 2,692 9.7% -1.1%
Graduate degree 2,015 7.2% 8.3%
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 Graves County

How much people earn in Graves County

The average annual household income in Graves County was $74,127 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,772, reflecting a +0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Graves County
$74,127/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Graves County
$50,772/year
0.4% year-over-year change

Graves County income by age

In Graves County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,106. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,321 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,524 in earnings. Overall, 80.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,750 13.8%
25 - 44 $66,106 -6.8%
45 - 64 $53,321 -3.2%
Over 65 $39,524 8.6%
Above poverty level
28,669
Below poverty level
7,011
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,669 80.4% 0.9%
Below poverty level 7,011 19.6% -2.9%

Employment in Graves County

Workforce and job types in Graves County

The job market in Graves County is powered by 15,615 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.1% run their own businesses, 67.6% are employed by private companies, and 14.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,615
1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
10,129
Blue collar
5,486
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,129 64.9% 3.8%
Blue collar 5,486 35.1% -1.4%
Employer type
Self employees
11.1%
Private companies
67.6%
Governmental workers
14.3%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,735 11.1% 8.5%
Private companies 10,564 67.6% 0.1%
Governmental workers 2,228 14.3% 7.5%
Not for profit companies 1,088 7% -0.7%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
-13.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Graves County stands at 3.4%, 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 Graves County

How people get around in Graves County

Commuting methods vary: 89.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% 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 13,639 89.3% 1.7%
Bus or trolleybus 21 0.1% 162.5%
Walk 182 1.2% -15.7%
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 Graves County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
42051 2,114 790 $76,000 $84,362
42061 59 59 $0 $0
42066 23,917 9,517 $48,664 $76,465
42069 1,214 488 $48,929 $62,700
42079 1,315 421 $59,375 $94,832
42027 1,875 676 $58,056 $61,424
42035 816 279 $55,515 $81,713
42039 1,694 644 $70,726 $85,690
42040 692 309 $51,141 $87,153
42041 4,406 1,627 $36,045 $50,220

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FAQs about Graves County demographics 

What is the total population of Graves County?

Graves County has a total population of 36,630 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Graves County?

The gender ratio in Graves County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (18,120 residents)
  • 50.5% females (18,510 residents)

What is the median age in Graves County?

The median age in Graves County is 40.4.

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

The age distribution in Graves County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.2% (7,404 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (4,302 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.7% (8,690 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.9% (9,481 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.4% (6,753 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Graves County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Graves County is as follows:
  • White: 86% (31,507 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.2% (1,527 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (84 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (171 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (2,128 residents)
  • Other: 3.3% (1,213 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97% of the population in Graves County.

How many housing units are there in Graves County?

There are 16,425 housing units in Graves County, reflecting a -0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Graves County has a total of 14,139 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Graves County?

Graves County has a median household income of $50,772, representing a +0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Graves County, with a workforce of 15,615 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.9% (10,129 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.1% (5,486 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.1% (1,735 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.6% (10,564 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.3% (2,228 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (1,088 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