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

Total population
783,022
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,866/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
359,710
0.5% year-over-year change

Jefferson County population

How many people live in Jefferson County

Jefferson County is home to 783,022 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Jefferson County locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
783,022
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
380,955
Female
51.4%
402,067
Value Percent YoY change
Male 380,955 48.6% 0.8%
Female 402,067 51.4% 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 Jefferson County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.4% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.8% of the population, while another 24.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.4%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
27.8%
45 to 64
24.4%
Over 65
17.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 144,421 18.4% 0.5%
15 to 24 95,556 12.2% 1.3%
25 to 44 217,624 27.8% 1.4%
45 to 64 191,104 24.4% -1.2%
Over 65 134,317 17.2% 2.4%
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 Jefferson County, 88.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 63.2% of locals are Caucasian, 20.8% are African American and 3.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.3%
Non-citizens
5.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 695,473 88.8% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 41,236 5.3% 0.5%
Non-citizens 46,313 5.9% 12.2%
Racial breakdown
White
63.2%
Black or African American
20.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.2%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 494,460 63.2%
Black or African American 162,586 20.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,196 0.2%
Asian 24,685 3.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 309 0%
Two or more races 80,001 10.2%
Other 19,785 2.5%

Households in Jefferson County

A peek inside Jefferson County households

Jefferson County has 331,554 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.1% are families, while the remaining 41.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
331,554
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
138,967
Family households
192,587
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 138,967 41.9% 0.9%
Family households 192,587 58.1% 0.5%
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 Jefferson County

The housing landscape of Jefferson County

Jefferson County's housing consists of 359,710 units, with 64% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.1% 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 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
359,710
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 230,266 64%
1 unit, attached 14,611 4.1%
2 units 8,377 2.3%
3 or 4 units 26,308 7.3%
5 to 9 units 25,581 7.1%
10 to 19 units 20,694 5.8%
20 to 49 units 11,833 3.3%
50 or more units 17,499 4.9%
Mobile home 4,420 1.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 121 0%
Homes built since 2020
5,263
81.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Jefferson County

In Jefferson County, the median construction year is 1972. About 13.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 48,722 13.5% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 22,232 6.2% -3.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 54,545 15.2% 1.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 45,751 12.7% -2.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 51,404 14.3% -2.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 29,559 8.2% 3.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 36,159 10% -2.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 38,357 10.7% 0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 27,718 7.7% 8.6%
Built in 2020 or later 5,263 1.5% 81.9%
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.

Jefferson County occupancy rates

Out of the 331,554 occupied housing units in Jefferson County, 62.1% are owner-occupied, while 37.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
331,554
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
125,573
Owner occupied
205,981
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 125,573 37.9% -0.2%
Owner occupied 205,981 62.1% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
7.8%
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.

Jefferson County housing costs

Housing costs in Jefferson County come to a median of $1,177 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,149.

Median housing costs per month
$1,177/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 Jefferson County
$1,149/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 Jefferson County

Jefferson County education at a glance

About 33.3% of the population in Jefferson County went to high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 20.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 16,489 2.7% 9.3%
High school diploma 202,918 33.3% 0.1%
College diploma 131,332 21.6% -1.4%
Associate degree 47,437 7.8% 1.5%
Bachelor's degree 125,755 20.7% 0.8%
Graduate degree 84,815 13.9% 3.7%
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 Jefferson County

How much people earn in Jefferson County

The average annual household income in Jefferson County was $97,866 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,866, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Jefferson County
$97,866/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Jefferson County
$69,866/year
3.0% year-over-year change

Jefferson County income by age

In Jefferson County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,101. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,132 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,282, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,849 in earnings. Overall, 85.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,282 9.4%
25 - 44 $78,101 4.8%
45 - 64 $84,132 4.4%
Over 65 $52,849 -0.3%
Above poverty level
652,183
Below poverty level
106,999
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 652,183 85.9% 1.0%
Below poverty level 106,999 14.1% -0.8%

Employment in Jefferson County

Workforce and job types in Jefferson County

The job market in Jefferson County is powered by 388,766 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 70.9% are employed by private companies, and 11.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
388,766
0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
293,853
Blue collar
94,913
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 293,853 75.6% 0.2%
Blue collar 94,913 24.4% 0.0%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
70.9%
Governmental workers
11.2%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 31,719 8.2% -0.2%
Private companies 275,499 70.9% -0.2%
Governmental workers 43,369 11.2% 0.1%
Not for profit companies 38,179 9.8% 3.2%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
8.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Jefferson County stands at 5.2%, 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 Jefferson County

How people get around in Jefferson County

Commuting methods vary: 80.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.8% 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 308,905 80.8% -1.4%
Taxicab 881 0.2% 20.9%
Bus or trolleybus 5,827 1.5% -18.8%
Subway or elevated 9 0% N/A
Railroad 13 0% 0.0%
Ferryboat 14 0% -6.7%
Motorcycle 205 0% -12.0%
Bicycle 1,010 0.3% 8.1%
Walk 6,687 1.8% -6.0%
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 Jefferson County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40023 6,870 2,489 $144,635 $181,069
40025 565 213 $250,001 $702,592
40041 564 236 $153,214 $121,349
40059 20,892 8,250 $152,727 $236,322
40118 10,697 4,244 $59,316 $69,833
40177 1,523 658 $50,577 $60,887
40202 7,261 3,363 $35,584 $63,072
40203 17,742 8,911 $30,794 $46,149
40204 14,034 7,731 $71,116 $116,882
40205 24,664 10,476 $99,966 $136,122

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FAQs about Jefferson County demographics 

What is the total population of Jefferson County?

Jefferson County has a total population of 783,022 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 +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Jefferson County?

The gender ratio in Jefferson County is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (380,955 residents)
  • 51.4% females (402,067 residents)

What is the median age in Jefferson County?

The median age in Jefferson County is 38.4.

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

The age distribution in Jefferson County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.4% (144,421 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (95,556 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.8% (217,624 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.4% (191,104 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.2% (134,317 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Jefferson County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Jefferson County is as follows:
  • White: 63.2% (494,460 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20.8% (162,586 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (1,196 residents)
  • Asian: 3.2% (24,685 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (309 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.2% (80,001 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (19,785 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.8% of the population in Jefferson County.

How many housing units are there in Jefferson County?

There are 359,710 housing units in Jefferson County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Jefferson County has a total of 331,554 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Jefferson County?

Jefferson County has a median household income of $69,866, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Jefferson County, with a workforce of 388,766 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.6% (293,853 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.4% (94,913 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (31,719 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.9% (275,499 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.2% (43,369 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (38,179 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