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

Total population
25,772
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$41,693/yr
12.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,036
0.2% year-over-year change

Harlan County population

How many people live in Harlan County

Harlan County is home to 25,772 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Harlan County locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
25,772
-1.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
12,449
Female
51.7%
13,323
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,449 48.3% -1.3%
Female 13,323 51.7% -1.8%
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 Harlan County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 26.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
26.2%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,026 19.5% -1.4%
15 to 24 2,788 10.8% 0.6%
25 to 44 6,184 24% -2.2%
45 to 64 6,754 26.2% -3.1%
Over 65 5,020 19.5% -0.0%
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 Harlan County, 99.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 94.2% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 25,593 99.3% -1.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 151 0.6% 28.0%
Non-citizens 28 0.1% 33.3%
Racial breakdown
White
94.2%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.8%
Other
0.3%
Value Percent
White 24,269 94.2%
Black or African American 328 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 56 0.2%
Asian 58 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 10 0%
Two or more races 984 3.8%
Other 67 0.3%

Households in Harlan County

A peek inside Harlan County households

Harlan County has 10,731 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 70.4% are families, while the remaining 29.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
10,731
2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,176
Family households
7,555
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,176 29.6% -7.3%
Family households 7,555 70.4% 6.8%
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 Harlan County

The housing landscape of Harlan County

Harlan County's housing consists of 13,036 units, with 67.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 19.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,036
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,792 67.4%
1 unit, attached 193 1.5%
2 units 230 1.8%
3 or 4 units 404 3.1%
5 to 9 units 529 4.1%
10 to 19 units 190 1.5%
20 to 49 units 36 0.3%
50 or more units 120 0.9%
Mobile home 2,518 19.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 24 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
15
25.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Harlan County

In Harlan County, the median construction year is 1976. About 16% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,091 16% 4.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 857 6.6% 2.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 971 7.4% -4.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,063 8.2% 11.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,447 18.8% -3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,895 14.5% -5.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,827 14% 3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,201 9.2% -7.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 669 5.1% 12.6%
Built in 2020 or later 15 0.1% 25.0%
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.

Harlan County occupancy rates

Out of the 10,731 occupied housing units in Harlan County, 71.6% are owner-occupied, while 28.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
10,731
2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,051
Owner occupied
7,680
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,051 28.4% -0.4%
Owner occupied 7,680 71.6% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
17.7%
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.

Harlan County housing costs

Housing costs in Harlan County come to a median of $527 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $678.

Median housing costs per month
$527/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 Harlan County
$678/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 Harlan County

Harlan County education at a glance

About 46.8% of the population in Harlan County went to high school, while 23.4% pursued college studies. Another 10.6% earned an associate degree and 5.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,397 7.1% -10.9%
High school diploma 9,203 46.8% -1.8%
College diploma 4,600 23.4% 0.1%
Associate degree 2,079 10.6% -1.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,156 5.9% -0.6%
Graduate degree 1,217 6.2% 0.6%
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 Harlan County

How much people earn in Harlan County

The average annual household income in Harlan County was $55,003 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $41,693, reflecting a +12.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Harlan County
$55,003/year
2.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Harlan County
$41,693/year
12.1% year-over-year change

Harlan County income by age

In Harlan County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $54,877. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $38,327 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $10,740, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $38,006 in earnings. Overall, 72.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $10,740 N/A
25 - 44 $54,877 22.2%
45 - 64 $38,327 3.5%
Over 65 $38,006 10.8%
Above poverty level
18,049
Below poverty level
6,835
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,049 72.5% -1.7%
Below poverty level 6,835 27.5% -1.2%

Employment in Harlan County

Workforce and job types in Harlan County

The job market in Harlan County is powered by 7,668 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 57.4% are employed by private companies, and 20.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,668
3.5% year-over-year change
White collar
5,777
Blue collar
1,891
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,777 75.3% 3.0%
Blue collar 1,891 24.7% 4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
57.4%
Governmental workers
20.8%
Not for profit companies
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 649 8.5% 21.3%
Private companies 4,401 57.4% 7.2%
Governmental workers 1,597 20.8% -0.8%
Not for profit companies 1,021 13.3% -12.2%
Unemployment rate
9.5%
-12.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Harlan County stands at 9.5%, 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 Harlan County

How people get around in Harlan County

In Harlan County, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.7% 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.

Commute time
24 min
1.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,906 91.7% 4.0%
Bus or trolleybus 51 0.7% 21.4%
Motorcycle 15 0.2% 650.0%
Walk 91 1.2% -20.9%
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 Harlan County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40806 1,732 784 $59,837 $71,015
40807 619 284 $49,118 $59,304
40808 8 4 $0 $0
40810 1,323 527 $40,066 $59,414
40815 811 391 $68,155 $88,270
40818 148 48 $0 $88,233
40819 808 377 $31,799 $42,336
40820 121 85 $0 $44,851
40823 3,742 1,516 $35,402 $50,810

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FAQs about Harlan County demographics 

What is the total population of Harlan County?

Harlan County has a total population of 25,772 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 -1.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Harlan County?

The gender ratio in Harlan County is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (12,449 residents)
  • 51.7% females (13,323 residents)

What is the median age in Harlan County?

The median age in Harlan County is 40.9.

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

The age distribution in Harlan County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (5,026 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (2,788 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (6,184 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.2% (6,754 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (5,020 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Harlan County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Harlan County is as follows:
  • White: 94.2% (24,269 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (328 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (56 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (58 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (10 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.8% (984 residents)
  • Other: 0.3% (67 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.3% of the population in Harlan County.

How many housing units are there in Harlan County?

There are 13,036 housing units in Harlan County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Harlan County has a total of 10,731 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Harlan County?

Harlan County has a median household income of $41,693, representing a +12.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 90.5% in Harlan County, with a workforce of 7,668 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.3% (5,777 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.7% (1,891 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (649 residents)
  • Private companies: 57.4% (4,401 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.8% (1,597 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.3% (1,021 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