South Lexington, Lexington, KY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
78,665
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$86,268/yr
3.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
37,003
0.8% year-over-year change

South Lexington population

How many people live in South Lexington

South Lexington is home to 78,665 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of South Lexington locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
78,665
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
38,221
Female
51.4%
40,445
Value Percent YoY change
Male 38,221 48.6% -0.2%
Female 40,445 51.4% 0.4%
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 South Lexington is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.8% are children under 15, then 14.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.4% of the population, while another 21.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.8%
15 to 24
14.4%
25 to 44
30.4%
45 to 64
21.9%
Over 65
14.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 14,813 18.8% 0.1%
15 to 24 11,364 14.4% -0.8%
25 to 44 23,943 30.4% -0.6%
45 to 64 17,251 21.9% -2.8%
Over 65 11,295 14.4% 7.8%
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 South Lexington, 88.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 68.3% of locals are Caucasian, 17.4% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.8%
Non-citizens
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 69,613 88.5% -1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,595 5.8% 9.6%
Non-citizens 4,457 5.7% 9.6%
Racial breakdown
White
68.3%
Black or African American
17.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.4%
Other
2.7%
Value Percent
White 53,744 68.3%
Black or African American 13,686 17.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 83 0.1%
Asian 2,358 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 33 0%
Two or more races 6,614 8.4%
Other 2,147 2.7%

Households in South Lexington

A peek inside South Lexington households

South Lexington has 34,801 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.7% are families, while the remaining 43.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
34,801
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,080
Family households
19,721
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,080 43.3% 0.1%
Family households 19,721 56.7% 0.6%
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 South Lexington

The housing landscape of South Lexington

South Lexington's housing consists of 37,003 units, with 53.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.2% 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 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
37,003
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,766 53.4%
1 unit, attached 3,049 8.2%
2 units 1,240 3.4%
3 or 4 units 2,830 7.6%
5 to 9 units 3,031 8.2%
10 to 19 units 3,696 10%
20 to 49 units 1,267 3.4%
50 or more units 1,974 5.3%
Mobile home 150 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
472
82.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Lexington

In South Lexington, the median construction year is 1992. About 0.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.5% 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 333 0.9% -11.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 111 0.3% -2.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 918 2.5% 2.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,158 8.5% 2.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,235 22.2% -1.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 8,964 24.2% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,773 18.3% 0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,884 13.2% 11.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 3,155 8.5% -3.9%
Built in 2020 or later 472 1.3% 82.2%
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.

South Lexington occupancy rates

Out of the 34,801 occupied housing units in South Lexington, 48.2% are owner-occupied, while 51.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
34,801
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
18,027
Owner occupied
16,774
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 18,027 51.8% 1.5%
Owner occupied 16,774 48.2% -0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
6.0%
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.

South Lexington housing costs

Housing costs in South Lexington come to a median of $1,405 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,361.

Median housing costs per month
$1,405/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 South Lexington
$1,361/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 South Lexington

South Lexington education at a glance

About 24.6% of the population in South Lexington went to high school, while 20.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 26.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 18% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,277 2.1% 9.0%
High school diploma 14,902 24.6% 4.4%
College diploma 12,590 20.8% -4.6%
Associate degree 4,744 7.8% 0.3%
Bachelor's degree 16,266 26.8% -0.6%
Graduate degree 10,900 18% 2.5%
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 South Lexington

How much people earn in South Lexington

The average annual household income in South Lexington was $116,613 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $86,268, reflecting a +3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Lexington
$116,613/year
4.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Lexington
$86,268/year
3.0% year-over-year change

South Lexington income by age

In South Lexington, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,366. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $126,601 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,368, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $68,776 in earnings. Overall, 86.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,368 -0.6%
25 - 44 $82,366 -0.5%
45 - 64 $126,601 16.5%
Over 65 $68,776 2.4%
Above poverty level
65,861
Below poverty level
10,437
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 65,861 86.3% 1.2%
Below poverty level 10,437 13.7% -8.0%

Employment in South Lexington

Workforce and job types in South Lexington

84.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 15.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.4% run their own businesses, 65.2% are employed by private companies, and 15% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
37,140
Blue collar
6,724
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 37,140 84.7% 0.7%
Blue collar 6,724 15.3% -0.0%
Employer type
Self employees
9.4%
Private companies
65.2%
Governmental workers
15%
Not for profit companies
10.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,109 9.4% -2.1%
Private companies 28,578 65.2% 2.6%
Governmental workers 6,571 15% -1.9%
Not for profit companies 4,605 10.5% -5.0%

Transportation in South Lexington

How people get around in South Lexington

In South Lexington, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.6% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
0.0% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 35,776 97.8% -1.1%
Taxicab 52 0.1% 23.8%
Bus or trolleybus 399 1.1% -1.0%
Motorcycle 37 0.1% 85.0%
Bicycle 80 0.2% -46.7%
Walk 227 0.6% -9.9%
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 South Lexington by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40509 47,036 19,395 $94,804 $124,548
40515 37,384 15,183 $86,268 $120,904
40517 35,656 17,301 $53,670 $73,308

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FAQs about South Lexington demographics 

What is the total population of South Lexington?

South Lexington has a total population of 78,665 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 South Lexington?

The gender ratio in South Lexington is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (38,221 residents)
  • 51.4% females (40,445 residents)

What is the median age in South Lexington?

The median age in South Lexington is 35.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Lexington?

The age distribution in South Lexington is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.8% (14,813 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.4% (11,364 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.4% (23,943 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.9% (17,251 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.4% (11,295 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Lexington?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Lexington is as follows:
  • White: 68.3% (53,744 residents)
  • Black or African American: 17.4% (13,686 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (83 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (2,358 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (33 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.4% (6,614 residents)
  • Other: 2.7% (2,147 residents)

What percentage of the population in South Lexington are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.5% of the population in South Lexington.

How many housing units are there in South Lexington?

There are 37,003 housing units in South Lexington, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South Lexington and what is the average household size?

South Lexington has a total of 34,801 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Lexington?

South Lexington has a median household income of $86,268, representing a +3.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for South Lexington?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84.7% (37,140 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 15.3% (6,724 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.4% (4,109 residents)
  • Private companies: 65.2% (28,578 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15% (6,571 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.5% (4,605 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