Demographics

As of 2022, Calloway County, Kentucky, has a population of approximately 38,900. The median age is 33.5 years, reflecting the presence of Murray State University. About 51% are female and 49% male. The population is predominantly White (87%), with Black or African American residents at 5%, Asians at 2.7%, and Hispanic or Latino at 2.5%. Other races and multiracial individuals make up the remaining percentage.

Elections

Calloway County, KY, had 27,860 registered voters as of November 2023. Residents vote in federal, state, and local elections, with two main parties—the Republican and Democratic. In the 2022 General Election, Calloway voters favored Republicans, giving 67% of the vote to GOP candidates. Voting takes place at eight polling locations, including the CFSB Center in Murray. The County Clerk administers elections, facing challenges such as absentee ballot access and redistricting. Recent issues center on local tax proposals and school board policies, with turnout typically around 45%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Calloway County, KY, is served by Calloway County Schools and Murray Independent Schools, with 8 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 89% of adults have a high school diploma, while 31% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average school safety score is above the state average, with low reported incidents. Educational programs include AP, gifted/talented, and dual credit courses. The district ranks in the top 20% in Kentucky for academic performance, with average ACT scores around 22. Adult education and GED programs are also accessible in the county.

As of 2023, Calloway County, KY has an employment rate of approximately 56%. Major employment sectors include education and health services (28%), retail trade (13%), and manufacturing (12%). The largest occupation types are education, office/administrative support, and production. About 86% of residents work within the county, while 14% commute to surrounding areas, mainly Marshall and Graves counties. The average commute time is 17 minutes. Murray State University is a significant employer, contributing to the strong presence of education-related jobs in the region.

Calloway County, KY has a homeownership rate of 65%, with a median home value around $165,000 in 2023, up 7% year-over-year. The median rent is approximately $850 per month. Housing types range from single-family homes to student apartments, especially near Murray and Murray State University. Notable neighborhoods include Canterbury and Edgewood. Property taxes are relatively low, with an average effective rate near 0.68%. The county’s housing market remains stable, supported by the university and a blend of urban and rural communities.

County Crime & Safety

Calloway County, KY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported an overall crime rate of approximately 14.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes (including assault and robbery) accounting for 1.1 per 1,000. Property crimes, such as theft and burglary, made up the majority at 13.6 per 1,000. Local law enforcement emphasizes proactive community policing and annually reports statistics through the Kentucky State Police Crime in Kentucky report, ensuring transparency and safety initiatives.