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

Total population
29,865
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$32,527/yr
-1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,866
0.3% year-over-year change

Knox County population

How many people live in Knox County

Knox County is home to 29,865 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.5% of Knox County locals are male, and 51.5% are female.

Total population
29,865
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.5%
14,497
Female
51.5%
15,368
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,497 48.5% -0.5%
Female 15,368 51.5% -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 Knox County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 26.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
26.1%
Over 65
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,823 19.5% -0.7%
15 to 24 3,715 12.4% -0.5%
25 to 44 7,337 24.6% -0.3%
45 to 64 7,787 26.1% -1.1%
Over 65 5,203 17.4% 0.1%
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 Knox County, 99.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.7% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.4%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 29,648 99.3% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 110 0.4% -5.2%
Non-citizens 107 0.4% -7.8%
Racial breakdown
White
95.7%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.8%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 28,593 95.7%
Black or African American 312 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 7 0%
Asian 57 0.2%
Two or more races 842 2.8%
Other 54 0.2%

Households in Knox County

A peek inside Knox County households

Knox County has 11,711 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.3% are families, while the remaining 33.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,711
3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,943
Family households
7,768
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,943 33.7% 2.2%
Family households 7,768 66.3% 4.0%
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 Knox County

The housing landscape of Knox County

Knox County's housing consists of 13,866 units, with 56.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.1% 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 32% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,866
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,840 56.5%
1 unit, attached 17 0.1%
2 units 322 2.3%
3 or 4 units 281 2%
5 to 9 units 627 4.5%
10 to 19 units 171 1.2%
20 to 49 units 49 0.4%
50 or more units 102 0.7%
Mobile home 4,441 32%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 16 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
175
116.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Knox County

In Knox County, the median construction year is 1985. About 6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 825 6% 6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 395 2.8% 5.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 657 4.7% -25.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,113 8% -5.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,391 17.2% -4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,025 21.8% 13.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,434 17.6% -11.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,955 14.1% 8.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 896 6.5% 6.7%
Built in 2020 or later 175 1.3% 116.0%
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.

Knox County occupancy rates

Out of the 11,711 occupied housing units in Knox County, 65.3% are owner-occupied, while 34.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,711
3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,061
Owner occupied
7,650
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,061 34.7% 4.1%
Owner occupied 7,650 65.3% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
15.5%
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.

Knox County housing costs

Housing costs in Knox County come to a median of $544 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $681.

Median housing costs per month
$544/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 Knox County
$681/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 Knox County

Knox County education at a glance

About 53.9% of the population in Knox County went to high school, while 18.2% pursued college studies. Another 4.8% earned an associate degree and 6.4% 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 2,395 10.5% -8.7%
High school diploma 12,291 53.9% 3.8%
College diploma 4,158 18.2% -10.0%
Associate degree 1,090 4.8% 11.7%
Bachelor's degree 1,468 6.4% -5.2%
Graduate degree 1,410 6.2% 5.0%
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 Knox County

How much people earn in Knox County

The average annual household income in Knox County was $50,707 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $32,527, reflecting a -1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Knox County
$50,707/year
-4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Knox County
$32,527/year
-1.9% year-over-year change

Knox County income by age

In Knox County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $33,893. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $35,864 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $40,905, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $27,992 in earnings. Overall, 63.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $40,905 -18.9%
25 - 44 $33,893 -2.9%
45 - 64 $35,864 11.0%
Over 65 $27,992 -7.5%
Above poverty level
18,288
Below poverty level
10,503
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,288 63.5% -0.9%
Below poverty level 10,503 36.5% 0.4%

Employment in Knox County

Workforce and job types in Knox County

The job market in Knox County is powered by 8,996 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.6% run their own businesses, 64.5% are employed by private companies, and 14.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,996
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
6,529
Blue collar
2,467
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,529 72.6% -0.2%
Blue collar 2,467 27.4% 5.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.6%
Private companies
64.5%
Governmental workers
14.8%
Not for profit companies
10.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 956 10.6% 5.0%
Private companies 5,801 64.5% 0.4%
Governmental workers 1,332 14.8% 5.9%
Not for profit companies 907 10.1% -4.3%
Unemployment rate
8.1%
4.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Knox County stands at 8.1%, 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 Knox County

How people get around in Knox County

Commuting methods vary: 89% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% 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 7,789 89% 3.4%
Taxicab 7 0.1% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -33.3%
Motorcycle 13 0.2% 8.3%
Walk 59 0.7% -28.1%
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 Knox County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40763 411 162 $0 $96,456
40771 1,915 738 $0 $35,723
40701 30,526 12,374 $47,204 $62,416
40734 3,602 1,300 $42,500 $52,717
40759 3,122 1,058 $34,909 $46,219
40903 558 232 $60,833 $64,870
40906 10,813 4,261 $23,375 $47,515
40915 564 211 $41,822 $45,989
40921 147 94 $0 $54,998
40923 679 243 $47,865 $40,118

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FAQs about Knox County demographics 

What is the total population of Knox County?

Knox County has a total population of 29,865 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Knox County?

The gender ratio in Knox County is as follows:
  • 48.5% males (14,497 residents)
  • 51.5% females (15,368 residents)

What is the median age in Knox County?

The median age in Knox County is 39.7.

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

The age distribution in Knox County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (5,823 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (3,715 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (7,337 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.1% (7,787 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.4% (5,203 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Knox County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Knox County is as follows:
  • White: 95.7% (28,593 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (312 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (7 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (57 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.8% (842 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (54 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Knox County?

There are 13,866 housing units in Knox County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Knox County has a total of 11,711 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Knox County?

Knox County has a median household income of $32,527, representing a -1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.9% in Knox County, with a workforce of 8,996 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.6% (6,529 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.4% (2,467 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.6% (956 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.5% (5,801 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.8% (1,332 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.1% (907 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