Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Elliott County, KY, had a population of 7,354. About 21% were under 18, and 19% were 65 or older; the median age was 43.7 years. The gender split was nearly even, with 49% male and 51% female. Racially, Elliott County was 97.2% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 1% identified as two or more races.

Elections

Elliott County, KY, has around 4,300 registered voters (2023), historically favoring Democrats but recently showing Republican gains: in the 2020 presidential election, Trump won 67%. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, plus issue referenda. Major polling location: Elliott County Clerk’s office in Sandy Hook. Issues include economic development and public education. As of June 2024, registrations: ~2,900 Democrats, ~1,100 Republicans, rest Independent/Other. Elections are administered by the County Clerk; voters can cast absentee, early, or Election Day ballots. Both parties are active, reflecting increased political competitiveness in recent years.

Education, Employment and Housing

Elliott County, KY, has a small public school district with about three schools: an elementary, a middle, and Elliott County High School. The high school graduation rate is around 94%, but only about 11% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below state and national averages. The district serves roughly 1,000 students and maintains above-average safety records. Recent Kentucky Department of Education assessments give its schools a performance score near the state average. The county offers limited adult education and vocational programs, focusing on GED completion and workforce readiness skills.

Elliott County, KY, had an employment rate of about 43.5% in 2022. Major employment sectors include education, health care (22%), and public administration (17%). Top occupation types are office/administrative support (17%) and management/professional roles (24%). The average commute time is approximately 32 minutes, with over 60% of residents working outside the county, primarily commuting to Carter and Rowan counties for employment.

Elliott County, KY, has a homeownership rate of about 79%, with median home values near $85,000 and median gross rents around $650/month. Housing is predominantly single-family homes, with limited multi-unit options. The property market is stable, showing modest value increases in recent years. Neighborhoods are largely rural and close-knit. Property taxes are low, averaging approximately 0.61% of home value annually. The county’s affordable housing and quiet, community-oriented environment attract families and retirees.

County Crime & Safety

Elliott County, KY, is known for its low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 25 incidents per 100,000 people, significantly lower than Kentucky’s average of 217. Property crime is also sparse, with about 110 incidents per 100,000 residents. Local law enforcement reports highlight minimal serious crimes, with most incidents involving minor offenses. Regular safety reporting and community policing contribute to a secure environment, making Elliott County one of the safest counties in Kentucky according to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting statistics.