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

Total population
62,983
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,771/yr
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
26,818
0.4% year-over-year change

Laurel County population

How many people live in Laurel County

Laurel County is home to 62,983 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Laurel County locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
62,983
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
31,201
Female
50.5%
31,782
Value Percent YoY change
Male 31,201 49.5% 0.6%
Female 31,782 50.5% 0.2%
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 Laurel County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.7% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.1% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.7%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
26.1%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
17.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,777 18.7% -0.6%
15 to 24 7,412 11.8% 0.3%
25 to 44 16,448 26.1% 0.3%
45 to 64 16,567 26.3% -0.1%
Over 65 10,779 17.1% 2.5%
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 Laurel County, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.3% of locals are Caucasian, 0.6% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 62,069 98.6% 0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 650 1% -10.8%
Non-citizens 264 0.4% -17.8%
Racial breakdown
White
95.3%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
3%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 60,016 95.3%
Black or African American 352 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 71 0.1%
Asian 195 0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 92 0.2%
Two or more races 1,913 3%
Other 344 0.6%

Households in Laurel County

A peek inside Laurel County households

Laurel County has 23,996 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70.5% are families, while the remaining 29.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
23,996
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
7,078
Family households
16,918
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,078 29.5% 3.2%
Family households 16,918 70.5% -0.3%
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 Laurel County

The housing landscape of Laurel County

Laurel County's housing consists of 26,818 units, with 61.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.7% 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 25.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
26,818
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,377 61.1%
1 unit, attached 197 0.7%
2 units 760 2.8%
3 or 4 units 1,039 3.9%
5 to 9 units 909 3.4%
10 to 19 units 360 1.3%
20 to 49 units 110 0.4%
50 or more units 91 0.3%
Mobile home 6,861 25.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 114 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
746
73.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Laurel County

In Laurel County, the median construction year is 1992. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,059 4% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 493 1.8% -14.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,049 3.9% -11.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,802 6.7% 10.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,925 14.6% -0.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,163 15.5% 0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,748 21.4% -6.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,627 17.2% -4.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,206 12% 14.7%
Built in 2020 or later 746 2.8% 73.9%
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.

Laurel County occupancy rates

Out of the 23,996 occupied housing units in Laurel County, 71.6% are owner-occupied, while 28.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
23,996
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
6,811
Owner occupied
17,185
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 6,811 28.4% 0.2%
Owner occupied 17,185 71.6% 0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
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.

Laurel County housing costs

Housing costs in Laurel County come to a median of $748 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $813.

Median housing costs per month
$748/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 Laurel County
$813/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 Laurel County

Laurel County education at a glance

About 51.8% of the population in Laurel County went to high school, while 18.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 9.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,559 5.2% -10.6%
High school diploma 25,227 51.8% 0.6%
College diploma 9,168 18.8% -0.5%
Associate degree 3,654 7.5% -0.7%
Bachelor's degree 4,696 9.6% 9.4%
Graduate degree 3,414 7% 4.6%
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 Laurel County

How much people earn in Laurel County

The average annual household income in Laurel County was $71,501 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,771, reflecting a +1.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Laurel County
$71,501/year
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Laurel County
$57,771/year
1.4% year-over-year change

Laurel County income by age

In Laurel County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $78,941. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,472 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,067, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $42,166 in earnings. Overall, 79.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,067 1.3%
25 - 44 $78,941 0.6%
45 - 64 $58,472 0.3%
Over 65 $42,166 4.2%
Above poverty level
48,103
Below poverty level
12,420
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 48,103 79.5% 1.0%
Below poverty level 12,420 20.5% -3.7%

Employment in Laurel County

Workforce and job types in Laurel County

The job market in Laurel County is powered by 26,668 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 71.4% are employed by private companies, and 11.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
26,668
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
18,752
Blue collar
7,916
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 18,752 70.3% 3.6%
Blue collar 7,916 29.7% -4.5%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
71.4%
Governmental workers
11.2%
Not for profit companies
8.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,255 8.5% 3.4%
Private companies 19,050 71.4% 0.2%
Governmental workers 2,988 11.2% 3.0%
Not for profit companies 2,375 8.9% 3.9%
Unemployment rate
3.5%
-1.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Laurel County stands at 3.5%, 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 Laurel County

How people get around in Laurel County

Commuting methods vary: 88.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.8% 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 23,293 88.8% -0.9%
Taxicab 39 0.2% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 17 0.1% -63.8%
Motorcycle 45 0.2% -11.8%
Walk 224 0.8% -14.2%
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 Laurel County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40701 30,526 12,374 $47,204 $62,416
40729 5,799 2,265 $47,077 $62,302
40737 1,782 559 $47,096 $89,682
40740 3,880 1,286 $63,701 $67,502
40741 23,397 9,098 $64,552 $74,924
40744 20,137 7,507 $64,369 $75,925

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FAQs about Laurel County demographics 

What is the total population of Laurel County?

Laurel County has a total population of 62,983 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Laurel County?

The gender ratio in Laurel County is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (31,201 residents)
  • 50.5% females (31,782 residents)

What is the median age in Laurel County?

The median age in Laurel County is 40.1.

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

The age distribution in Laurel County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.7% (11,777 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (7,412 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.1% (16,448 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (16,567 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.1% (10,779 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Laurel County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Laurel County is as follows:
  • White: 95.3% (60,016 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (352 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (71 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (195 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (92 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3% (1,913 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (344 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Laurel County.

How many housing units are there in Laurel County?

There are 26,818 housing units in Laurel County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Laurel County has a total of 23,996 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Laurel County?

Laurel County has a median household income of $57,771, representing a +1.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.5% in Laurel County, with a workforce of 26,668 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.3% (18,752 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.7% (7,916 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (2,255 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.4% (19,050 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.2% (2,988 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.9% (2,375 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