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

Total population
49,096
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$82,604/yr
-0.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,531
1.6% year-over-year change

Shelby County population

How many people live in Shelby County

Shelby County is home to 49,096 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Shelby County locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
49,096
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
24,177
Female
50.8%
24,919
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,177 49.2% 0.9%
Female 24,919 50.8% 1.1%
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 Shelby County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.1% of the population, while another 28% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
25.1%
45 to 64
28%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,938 18.2% -1.2%
15 to 24 5,906 12% 1.9%
25 to 44 12,319 25.1% 3.0%
45 to 64 13,749 28% 0.9%
Over 65 8,184 16.7% 0.0%
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 Shelby County, 92.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.4% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 11.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
4.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 45,296 92.3% 0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,498 3% -9.9%
Non-citizens 2,302 4.7% 17.3%
Racial breakdown
White
80.4%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
11.7%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 39,480 80.4%
Black or African American 1,919 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 209 0.4%
Asian 477 1%
Two or more races 5,732 11.7%
Other 1,279 2.6%

Households in Shelby County

A peek inside Shelby County households

Shelby County has 18,484 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
18,484
3.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
5,203
Family households
13,281
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,203 28.2% 10.4%
Family households 13,281 71.8% 1.1%
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 Shelby County

The housing landscape of Shelby County

Shelby County's housing consists of 19,531 units, with 78.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.2% 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 2.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,531
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 15,377 78.7%
1 unit, attached 823 4.2%
2 units 347 1.8%
3 or 4 units 652 3.3%
5 to 9 units 1,023 5.2%
10 to 19 units 462 2.4%
20 to 49 units 222 1.1%
50 or more units 117 0.6%
Mobile home 497 2.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 11 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
492
110.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Shelby County

In Shelby County, the median construction year is 1993. About 8.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,740 8.9% -7.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 495 2.5% -5.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 947 4.8% 34.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,488 7.6% -8.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,464 12.6% 4.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,714 8.8% -14.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,312 17% 5.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,463 22.8% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,416 12.4% 2.8%
Built in 2020 or later 492 2.5% 110.3%
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.

Shelby County occupancy rates

Out of the 18,484 occupied housing units in Shelby County, 73.8% are owner-occupied, while 26.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,484
3.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,833
Owner occupied
13,651
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,833 26.2% 4.3%
Owner occupied 13,651 73.8% 3.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.4%
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.

Shelby County housing costs

Housing costs in Shelby County come to a median of $1,154 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,033.

Median housing costs per month
$1,154/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 Shelby County
$1,033/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 Shelby County

Shelby County education at a glance

About 39.4% of the population in Shelby County went to high school, while 17.6% pursued college studies. Another 8.7% earned an associate degree and 19.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,499 3.9% -0.7%
High school diploma 15,039 39.4% 2.1%
College diploma 6,716 17.6% -5.6%
Associate degree 3,327 8.7% -1.3%
Bachelor's degree 7,286 19.1% 2.6%
Graduate degree 4,339 11.4% 11.6%
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 Shelby County

How much people earn in Shelby County

The average annual household income in Shelby County was $104,252 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $82,604, reflecting a -0.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Shelby County
$104,252/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Shelby County
$82,604/year
-0.1% year-over-year change

Shelby County income by age

In Shelby County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $101,974. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $88,686 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,541, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,332 in earnings. Overall, 90.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,541 -58.7%
25 - 44 $101,974 -0.1%
45 - 64 $88,686 -1.4%
Over 65 $52,332 2.4%
Above poverty level
42,715
Below poverty level
4,516
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 42,715 90.4% -0.1%
Below poverty level 4,516 9.6% 12.4%

Employment in Shelby County

Workforce and job types in Shelby County

The job market in Shelby County is powered by 23,754 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.8% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 13.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,754
-2.6% year-over-year change
White collar
17,048
Blue collar
6,706
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,048 71.8% -2.1%
Blue collar 6,706 28.2% -4.0%
Employer type
Self employees
10.8%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
13.9%
Not for profit companies
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,573 10.8% -16.9%
Private companies 16,306 68.6% -2.3%
Governmental workers 3,300 13.9% 2.1%
Not for profit companies 1,575 6.6% 14.8%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
44.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Shelby County stands at 4.2%, 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 Shelby County

How people get around in Shelby County

Commuting methods vary: 85.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% 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 20,094 85.9% -3.4%
Taxicab 74 0.3% 10.4%
Bus or trolleybus 51 0.2% -56.8%
Walk 159 0.7% -8.6%
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 Shelby County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
40003 1,807 760 $97,681 $100,734
40019 4,238 1,620 $60,761 $86,274
40022 903 334 $98,333 $137,333
40057 4,065 1,578 $77,866 $83,153
40065 32,160 12,470 $77,869 $94,437
40067 6,365 2,391 $97,684 $129,513
40068 2,570 922 $80,750 $112,372
40076 2,898 1,064 $91,786 $96,501
40245 39,835 15,048 $122,948 $163,222

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FAQs about Shelby County demographics 

What is the total population of Shelby County?

Shelby County has a total population of 49,096 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Shelby County?

The gender ratio in Shelby County is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (24,177 residents)
  • 50.8% females (24,919 residents)

What is the median age in Shelby County?

The median age in Shelby County is 40.9.

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

The age distribution in Shelby County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (8,938 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (5,906 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.1% (12,319 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28% (13,749 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (8,184 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Shelby County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Shelby County is as follows:
  • White: 80.4% (39,480 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (1,919 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (209 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (477 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 11.7% (5,732 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (1,279 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.3% of the population in Shelby County.

How many housing units are there in Shelby County?

There are 19,531 housing units in Shelby County, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Shelby County has a total of 18,484 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Shelby County?

Shelby County has a median household income of $82,604, representing a -0.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.8% in Shelby County, with a workforce of 23,754 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.8% (17,048 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.2% (6,706 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.8% (2,573 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (16,306 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.9% (3,300 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.6% (1,575 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