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

Total population
10,425
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$51,473/yr
6.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,735
0.3% year-over-year change

Metcalfe County population

How many people live in Metcalfe County

Metcalfe County is home to 10,425 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.8% of Metcalfe County locals are male, and 51.2% are female.

Total population
10,425
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.8%
5,083
Female
51.2%
5,342
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,083 48.8% -1.5%
Female 5,342 51.2% 2.5%
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 Metcalfe County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.9% of the population, while another 27.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
42
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
22.9%
45 to 64
27.2%
Over 65
19.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,013 19.3% -0.3%
15 to 24 1,201 11.5% 4.4%
25 to 44 2,390 22.9% -0.7%
45 to 64 2,831 27.2% -0.3%
Over 65 1,990 19.1% 1.7%
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 Metcalfe County, 97.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 2.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 10,206 97.9% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 89 0.8% -13.6%
Non-citizens 130 1.2% 0.0%
Racial breakdown
White
94%
Black or African American
2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.1%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 9,796 94%
Black or African American 261 2.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 10 0.1%
Two or more races 219 2.1%
Other 139 1.3%

Households in Metcalfe County

A peek inside Metcalfe County households

Metcalfe County has 4,100 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 68.2% are families, while the remaining 31.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,100
-3.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,303
Family households
2,797
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,303 31.8% -5.4%
Family households 2,797 68.2% -2.4%
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 Metcalfe County

The housing landscape of Metcalfe County

Metcalfe County's housing consists of 4,735 units, with 64.9% 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 29% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,735
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,074 64.9%
1 unit, attached 33 0.7%
2 units 22 0.5%
3 or 4 units 47 1%
5 to 9 units 93 2%
10 to 19 units 35 0.7%
20 to 49 units 27 0.6%
50 or more units 23 0.5%
Mobile home 1,371 29%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 10 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
156
75.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Metcalfe County

In Metcalfe County, the median construction year is 1986. About 4.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 201 4.2% 26.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 172 3.6% 1.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 365 7.7% -5.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 287 6.1% 9.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 883 18.6% -5.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 792 16.7% 6.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 828 17.5% -9.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 811 17.1% 1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 240 5.1% -6.2%
Built in 2020 or later 156 3.3% 75.3%
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.

Metcalfe County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,100 occupied housing units in Metcalfe County, 77.7% are owner-occupied, while 22.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,100
-3.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
915
Owner occupied
3,185
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 915 22.3% -12.9%
Owner occupied 3,185 77.7% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
13.4%
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.

Metcalfe County housing costs

Housing costs in Metcalfe County come to a median of $577 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $582.

Median housing costs per month
$577/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 Metcalfe County
$582/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 Metcalfe County

Metcalfe County education at a glance

About 54.7% of the population in Metcalfe County went to high school, while 16.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 6.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 459 5.8% -27.4%
High school diploma 4,357 54.7% 8.2%
College diploma 1,301 16.3% -12.9%
Associate degree 895 11.2% 12.4%
Bachelor's degree 514 6.4% -3.8%
Graduate degree 443 5.6% 2.3%
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 Metcalfe County

How much people earn in Metcalfe County

The average annual household income in Metcalfe County was $65,471 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $51,473, reflecting a +6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Metcalfe County
$65,471/year
9.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Metcalfe County
$51,473/year
6.0% year-over-year change

Metcalfe County income by age

In Metcalfe County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $57,634. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $63,750 overall. Overall, 72.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $57,634 2.0%
45 - 64 $63,750 46.2%
Over 65 $47,698 12.9%
Above poverty level
7,487
Below poverty level
2,795
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,487 72.8% -1.8%
Below poverty level 2,795 27.2% 7.2%

Employment in Metcalfe County

Workforce and job types in Metcalfe County

The job market in Metcalfe County is powered by 4,218 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.4% run their own businesses, 69.7% are employed by private companies, and 11.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,218
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
2,668
Blue collar
1,550
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,668 63.2% 1.7%
Blue collar 1,550 36.8% -2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.4%
Private companies
69.7%
Governmental workers
11.3%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 356 8.4% 8.2%
Private companies 2,941 69.7% 0.6%
Governmental workers 475 11.3% -19.1%
Not for profit companies 446 10.6% 17.7%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
-9.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Metcalfe County stands at 4.9%, 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 Metcalfe County

How people get around in Metcalfe County

In Metcalfe County, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% 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
12.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,687 90.4% -1.3%
Walk 57 1.4% 21.3%
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 Metcalfe County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
42124 28 10 $0 $0
42129 7,302 2,897 $53,609 $66,709
42154 629 213 $58,036 $80,034
42749 4,423 1,894 $45,500 $62,063
42214 749 248 $47,188 $82,201
42166 2,691 980 $49,783 $68,292

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FAQs about Metcalfe County demographics 

What is the total population of Metcalfe County?

Metcalfe County has a total population of 10,425 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Metcalfe County?

The gender ratio in Metcalfe County is as follows:
  • 48.8% males (5,083 residents)
  • 51.2% females (5,342 residents)

What is the median age in Metcalfe County?

The median age in Metcalfe County is 42.

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

The age distribution in Metcalfe County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (2,013 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (1,201 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.9% (2,390 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.2% (2,831 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.1% (1,990 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Metcalfe County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Metcalfe County is as follows:
  • White: 94% (9,796 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.5% (261 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (10 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.1% (219 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (139 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.9% of the population in Metcalfe County.

How many housing units are there in Metcalfe County?

There are 4,735 housing units in Metcalfe 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 Metcalfe County and what is the average household size?

Metcalfe County has a total of 4,100 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Metcalfe County?

Metcalfe County has a median household income of $51,473, 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 Metcalfe County?

The employment rate is 95.1% in Metcalfe County, with a workforce of 4,218 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.2% (2,668 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.8% (1,550 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.4% (356 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.7% (2,941 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.3% (475 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (446 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