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

Total population
30,158
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,355/yr
6.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
12,237
1.0% year-over-year change

Meade County population

How many people live in Meade County

Meade County is home to 30,158 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Meade County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
30,158
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
15,243
Female
49.5%
14,915
Value Percent YoY change
Male 15,243 50.5% 0.6%
Female 14,915 49.5% 0.3%
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 Meade County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.9% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
27.9%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
15.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,498 18.2% -1.1%
15 to 24 3,457 11.5% -1.8%
25 to 44 8,415 27.9% 1.5%
45 to 64 8,080 26.8% -0.4%
Over 65 4,708 15.6% 3.6%
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 Meade County, 96.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.9% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 0.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 29,211 96.9% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 749 2.5% -17.7%
Non-citizens 198 0.7% -17.1%
Racial breakdown
White
88.9%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 26,810 88.9%
Black or African American 1,015 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 88 0.3%
Asian 204 0.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 114 0.4%
Two or more races 1,857 6.2%
Other 70 0.2%

Households in Meade County

A peek inside Meade County households

Meade County has 11,007 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.8% are families, while the remaining 28.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
11,007
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,109
Family households
7,898
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,109 28.2% -2.4%
Family households 7,898 71.8% 3.7%
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 Meade County

The housing landscape of Meade County

Meade County's housing consists of 12,237 units, with 67.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 20.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
12,237
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,209 67.1%
1 unit, attached 410 3.4%
2 units 484 4%
3 or 4 units 295 2.4%
5 to 9 units 181 1.5%
10 to 19 units 89 0.7%
20 to 49 units 49 0.4%
50 or more units 29 0.2%
Mobile home 2,491 20.4%
Homes built since 2020
250
127.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Meade County

In Meade County, the median construction year is 1990. About 6.6% 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, 12.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 812 6.6% 7.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 219 1.8% -14.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 806 6.6% -13.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 744 6.1% -0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,628 13.3% -2.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,879 15.4% 12.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,214 18.1% -5.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,103 17.2% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,582 12.9% -1.0%
Built in 2020 or later 250 2% 127.3%
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.

Meade County occupancy rates

Out of the 11,007 occupied housing units in Meade County, 74.1% are owner-occupied, while 25.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
11,007
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,852
Owner occupied
8,155
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,852 25.9% -1.5%
Owner occupied 8,155 74.1% 3.2%
Unoccupied housing units
10.1%
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.

Meade County housing costs

Housing costs in Meade County come to a median of $968 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,026.

Median housing costs per month
$968/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 Meade County
$1,026/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 Meade County

Meade County education at a glance

About 48% of the population in Meade County went to high school, while 23.2% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 12% 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 557 2.4% -25.0%
High school diploma 11,310 48% -2.2%
College diploma 5,455 23.2% 2.0%
Associate degree 1,945 8.3% 7.4%
Bachelor's degree 2,820 12% 12.3%
Graduate degree 1,464 6.2% 5.5%
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 Meade County

How much people earn in Meade County

The average annual household income in Meade County was $93,797 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,355, reflecting a +6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Meade County
$93,797/year
4.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Meade County
$74,355/year
6.0% year-over-year change

Meade County income by age

In Meade County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,238. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,237 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $61,484, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,494 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $61,484 42.6%
25 - 44 $80,238 5.3%
45 - 64 $87,237 9.8%
Over 65 $60,494 15.4%
Above poverty level
25,965
Below poverty level
3,593
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 25,965 87.8% 1.9%
Below poverty level 3,593 12.2% -11.3%

Employment in Meade County

Workforce and job types in Meade County

The job market in Meade County is powered by 14,189 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 67.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 32.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 15.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,189
3.1% year-over-year change
White collar
9,612
Blue collar
4,577
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,612 67.7% 6.0%
Blue collar 4,577 32.3% -2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
15.8%
Not for profit companies
4.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,540 10.8% -9.7%
Private companies 9,736 68.6% 8.3%
Governmental workers 2,238 15.8% -10.0%
Not for profit companies 675 4.8% 14.8%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
34.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Meade County stands at 4.8%, 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 Meade County

How people get around in Meade County

Commuting methods vary: 88% 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.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 12,525 88% 1.4%
Bus or trolleybus 17 0.1% -34.6%
Motorcycle 10 0.1% -9.1%
Bicycle 17 0.1% N/A
Walk 166 1.2% -32.8%
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 Meade County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40104 1,143 326 $71,111 $85,200
40108 12,821 4,978 $77,559 $94,129
40117 2,050 810 $58,696 $81,469
40142 2,253 838 $81,037 $84,183
40155 1,127 469 $60,508 $76,974
40157 854 346 $58,750 $90,653
40161 182 94 $74,348 $79,355
40175 15,718 5,839 $77,509 $97,436
40176 898 305 $62,422 $70,363

Explore more communities

FAQs about Meade County demographics 

What is the total population of Meade County?

Meade County has a total population of 30,158 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 Meade County?

The gender ratio in Meade County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (15,243 residents)
  • 49.5% females (14,915 residents)

What is the median age in Meade County?

The median age in Meade County is 39.5.

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

The age distribution in Meade County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (5,498 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (3,457 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.9% (8,415 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (8,080 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.6% (4,708 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Meade County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Meade County is as follows:
  • White: 88.9% (26,810 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (1,015 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (88 residents)
  • Asian: 0.7% (204 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (114 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (1,857 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (70 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.9% of the population in Meade County.

How many housing units are there in Meade County?

There are 12,237 housing units in Meade County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Meade County has a total of 11,007 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Meade County?

Meade County has a median household income of $74,355, representing a +6.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.2% in Meade County, with a workforce of 14,189 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 67.7% (9,612 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 32.3% (4,577 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (1,540 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (9,736 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.8% (2,238 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.8% (675 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