Carter County Public RecordsKentucky

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Carter County, KY, had a population of approximately 26,627. The median age was 41.4 years, with 49.5% male and 50.5% female residents. The racial makeup was predominantly White (96.8%), with small percentages of Black or African American (0.7%), Native American (0.2%), Asian (0.2%), and those of two or more races (1.9%). Hispanic or Latino individuals comprised 1.0% of the population.

Carter County, KY, had 16,223 registered voters in 2023, most identifying as Republican (approx. 65%), with Democrats around 30%. Elections include primaries, generals, and specials, with the 2022 general election seeing 47% turnout. County results often mirror Kentucky’s statewide GOP lean, with Republicans winning local offices. Polling locations include Olive Hill and Grayson civic centers. Recent issues involve school funding and road maintenance bonds. The Carter County Clerk administers elections, ensuring compliance and transparency. Major parties—Republican and Democratic—dominate; third-party registration is under 3%.

Carter County, KY serves K-12 students across 12 public schools, including two high schools: East Carter and West Carter. The high school graduation rate is approximately 91%, but only about 13% of adults possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools scored an average of 68 on Kentucky’s state accountability scale (2022). School safety measures include security officers and updated emergency protocols. Adult education is supported by the Carter County Adult Learning Center, offering GED and workforce programs. Programs in STEM, dual-credit, and vocational training are available to enhance career readiness.

As of 2022, Carter County, KY, has an employment rate of about 48.3%. Major industries include health care & social assistance (19.7%), retail trade (14.4%), and manufacturing (12.4%). Common occupation types are office & administrative support (14.7%), production (11.8%), and sales (10.1%). Approximately 79.7% of workers commute alone by car, with a mean travel time of 27.4 minutes; most are employed within Carter or neighboring Boyd and Greenup counties.

Carter County, KY has a homeownership rate of about 73%, with the median home value around $104,000 (2022). Median rent is roughly $670 per month. The property market has seen modest growth, with values increasing by about 4% year-over-year. Housing types are mostly single-family homes, with some mobile homes, and limited apartment options. Popular neighborhoods include Grayson and Olive Hill. Property tax rates are approximately 0.8% of assessed value, making taxes relatively affordable compared to national averages. Rental options are limited, and the housing market remains accessible for first-time buyers.

Carter County, KY, has a moderate crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the violent crime rate is approximately 2.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 14.3 per 1,000 residents. The most common offenses reported include larceny and burglary. Local law enforcement maintains regular patrols and crime reporting, contributing to a sense of safety among residents. Overall, Carter County is considered relatively safe, but community vigilance and timely reporting are encouraged to maintain public safety.