Adair County Public RecordsKentucky

As of 2022, Adair County, KY has a population of approximately 18,800. The median age is 41.4 years, with about 49% male and 51% female residents. The racial makeup is predominantly White (93%), followed by Black or African American (3%), Hispanic or Latino (2%), and small percentages of other races. The community is primarily rural, reflecting the county’s traditional demographics and steady population trends.

As of 2024, Adair County, KY has roughly 12,800 registered voters, with Republicans (about 63%) outnumbering Democrats (33%), and others comprising 4%. The county participates in primary, general, and special elections. In the 2022 general election, turnout was approximately 45%. Key polling locations include the Adair Annex Basement and Lindsey Wilson College. Issues often center on local education and infrastructure. Elections are overseen by the Adair County Clerk’s Office. The area leans Republican, with GOP candidates consistently winning county offices. Multiple parties are present, but the Republican and Democratic parties are dominant.

Adair County, KY, serves around 2,500 students across 5 public schools, including Adair County High School. About 14.5% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, which is below state and national averages. The high school graduation rate is approximately 91%. Schools report average standardized test scores, with a recent state school score of 53.1/100. Adair County offers adult education and GED programs through the Adult Learning Center. The district emphasizes school safety, with resource officers and security policies, and provides diverse educational opportunities, including career and technical education programs.

As of 2022, Adair County, KY, has an employment rate of approximately 53%, with about 7,200 employed residents. The largest industries are manufacturing (19%), health care/social assistance (17%), and retail trade (11%). Most common occupation types are production (16%), office/administrative support (13%), and sales roles (11%). Around 76% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 24 minutes. About 24% of employed residents work outside the county, primarily commuting to Taylor and Russell Counties.

Adair County, KY, has a homeownership rate of approximately 73%, with a median home value around $122,000 in 2023. The median monthly rent is about $700. The housing market has seen modest growth, with property values rising 5% over the past year. Housing types include single-family homes, mobile homes, and some apartments, primarily concentrated in neighborhoods like Columbia, the county seat. Property taxes are low, with an average effective rate of 0.73%. Demand remains steady, driven by affordable prices and a rural lifestyle, making Adair County appealing for both homeowners and renters.

Adair County, KY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages, with a reported violent crime rate of 1.7 per 1,000 residents and property crime rate around 7.2 per 1,000 in 2023. Local law enforcement emphasizes proactive policing and community engagement. Annual reports indicate overall crime has decreased slightly over the past five years. Residents report crimes primarily through the Adair County Sheriff's Office, and response times remain efficient, averaging under 10 minutes for emergency calls. The county remains safer than 58% of Kentucky’s counties, according to recent crime statistics.