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

Total population
47,606
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$69,562/yr
2.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
20,330
1.3% year-over-year change

Nelson County population

How many people live in Nelson County

Nelson County is home to 47,606 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Nelson County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
47,606
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
23,799
Female
50%
23,807
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,799 50% 0.9%
Female 23,807 50% 1.3%
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 Nelson County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19% are children under 15, then 11.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.4% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19%
15 to 24
11.8%
25 to 44
25.4%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,060 19% 0.6%
15 to 24 5,597 11.8% -1.9%
25 to 44 12,070 25.4% 3.0%
45 to 64 12,588 26.4% -1.4%
Over 65 8,291 17.4% 4.7%
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 Nelson County, 96.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 89.8% of locals are Caucasian, 5.3% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.7%
Non-citizens
1.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 45,932 96.5% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 809 1.7% -2.9%
Non-citizens 865 1.8% 30.7%
Racial breakdown
White
89.8%
Black or African American
5.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.9%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 42,741 89.8%
Black or African American 2,535 5.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 26 0%
Asian 236 0.5%
Two or more races 1,866 3.9%
Other 202 0.4%

Households in Nelson County

A peek inside Nelson County households

Nelson County has 19,150 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 69.2% are families, while the remaining 30.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,150
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,905
Family households
13,245
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,905 30.8% 6.4%
Family households 13,245 69.2% 0.1%
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 Nelson County

The housing landscape of Nelson County

Nelson County's housing consists of 20,330 units, with 80.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.2% 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 6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
20,330
1.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 16,403 80.7%
1 unit, attached 646 3.2%
2 units 490 2.4%
3 or 4 units 708 3.5%
5 to 9 units 674 3.3%
10 to 19 units 160 0.8%
20 to 49 units 35 0.2%
Mobile home 1,214 6%
Homes built since 2020
717
125.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Nelson County

In Nelson County, the median construction year is 1992. About 6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,214 6% 1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 453 2.2% -14.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 918 4.5% -17.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,105 5.4% -10.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,118 15.3% -6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,591 12.7% 5.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,650 18% -4.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,222 20.8% 7.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,342 11.5% 8.7%
Built in 2020 or later 717 3.5% 125.5%
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.

Nelson County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,150 occupied housing units in Nelson County, 78.3% are owner-occupied, while 21.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,150
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,149
Owner occupied
15,001
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,149 21.7% -2.8%
Owner occupied 15,001 78.3% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.8%
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.

Nelson County housing costs

Housing costs in Nelson County come to a median of $970 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,008.

Median housing costs per month
$970/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 Nelson County
$1,008/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 Nelson County

Nelson County education at a glance

About 44.2% of the population in Nelson County went to high school, while 17.9% pursued college studies. Another 13% earned an associate degree and 13.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,003 2.7% 30.8%
High school diploma 16,204 44.2% 1.0%
College diploma 6,557 17.9% -10.3%
Associate degree 4,776 13% 10.3%
Bachelor's degree 4,947 13.5% 2.8%
Graduate degree 3,147 8.6% 12.3%
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 Nelson County

How much people earn in Nelson County

The average annual household income in Nelson County was $87,639 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $69,562, reflecting a +2.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Nelson County
$87,639/year
3.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Nelson County
$69,562/year
2.5% year-over-year change

Nelson County income by age

In Nelson County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $86,661. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $81,356 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,559, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,109 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,559 12.8%
25 - 44 $86,661 4.1%
45 - 64 $81,356 4.6%
Over 65 $47,109 -1.1%
Above poverty level
41,660
Below poverty level
5,039
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 41,660 89.2% -0.1%
Below poverty level 5,039 10.8% 16.2%

Employment in Nelson County

Workforce and job types in Nelson County

The job market in Nelson County is powered by 23,116 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 66.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 33.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 69.5% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,116
3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
15,423
Blue collar
7,693
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 15,423 66.7% 5.6%
Blue collar 7,693 33.3% -0.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
69.5%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
8.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,009 8.7% -1.1%
Private companies 16,056 69.5% 4.0%
Governmental workers 3,109 13.4% 4.3%
Not for profit companies 1,942 8.4% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
12.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Nelson County stands at 3.3%, 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 Nelson County

How people get around in Nelson County

In Nelson County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
3.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 20,804 91% 3.1%
Taxicab 55 0.2% 175.0%
Bus or trolleybus 12 0% 20.0%
Walk 260 1.1% -8.8%
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 Nelson County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40004 30,601 12,519 $66,578 $86,718
40008 4,020 1,676 $66,486 $83,157
40012 712 266 $105,033 $97,122
40013 6,670 2,554 $100,226 $103,673
40020 199 119 $90,712 $84,856
40037 2,793 1,158 $70,000 $87,287
40051 4,658 1,737 $80,337 $83,670
40052 655 232 $45,750 $69,262
40107 2,187 887 $60,398 $75,790

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FAQs about Nelson County demographics 

What is the total population of Nelson County?

Nelson County has a total population of 47,606 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Nelson County?

The gender ratio in Nelson County is as follows:
  • 50% males (23,799 residents)
  • 50% females (23,807 residents)

What is the median age in Nelson County?

The median age in Nelson County is 39.5.

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

The age distribution in Nelson County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19% (9,060 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.8% (5,597 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.4% (12,070 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (12,588 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.4% (8,291 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Nelson County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Nelson County is as follows:
  • White: 89.8% (42,741 residents)
  • Black or African American: 5.3% (2,535 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (26 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (236 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.9% (1,866 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (202 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.5% of the population in Nelson County.

How many housing units are there in Nelson County?

There are 20,330 housing units in Nelson County, reflecting a +1.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Nelson County has a total of 19,150 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Nelson County?

Nelson County has a median household income of $69,562, representing a +2.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.7% in Nelson County, with a workforce of 23,116 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 66.7% (15,423 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 33.3% (7,693 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (2,009 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.5% (16,056 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (3,109 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.4% (1,942 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