Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Franklin County, KY, had a population of approximately 51,541. The median age was 42.2 years. Females made up 52% of the population, while males were 48%. Racially, the county was 84.2% White, 10.5% Black or African American, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.2% Asian, and 2% identifying as two or more races or other groups.

Elections

Franklin County, KY, had around 37,000 registered voters as of 2023, with roughly 52% Democrats, 39% Republicans, and 9% other. The county holds general, primary, and special elections; in the 2020 presidential election, about 59% voted Democratic and 39% Republican. Voting takes place at multiple polling locations, including the Capital Plaza and local schools. Key issues include education funding and infrastructure. Elections are administered by the Franklin County Clerk’s office, with bipartisan oversight. Both major parties are active locally, addressing voter engagement and turnout concerns.

Education, Employment and Housing

Franklin County, KY, has 14 public schools, including 2 high schools. Approximately 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while around 25% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores in the district are slightly above state averages. The county offers adult education programs through the Franklin County Career & Technical Center. School safety initiatives include resource officers in all schools and security upgrades. Educational programs include Advanced Placement, career pathways, and STEM options, supporting diverse student development.

As of 2022, Franklin County, KY, had an employment rate of approximately 58.5%. Leading industries include public administration (28%), health care (10%), and retail trade (10%). Major occupation types are office/administrative support (15%), management (13%), and sales (10%). About 84% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 20 minutes, and nearly 65% work within Franklin County, while the remainder commute primarily to Fayette and Scott counties.

Franklin County, KY, has a homeownership rate of around 63%, with a median home value near $180,000 and median rent around $900/month. The housing market has seen modest growth, with property values increasing approximately 5% year-over-year. Common housing types include single-family homes and some multi-family units, notably in Frankfort neighborhoods like Bellepoint and South Frankfort. The county’s property tax rate is about 0.86%, lower than the national average, providing affordability. Neighborhoods vary from historic districts to newer suburban developments, catering to diverse preferences.

County Crime & Safety

Franklin County, KY, reported a crime rate of 2,240 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, slightly below the state average. Violent crimes comprised approximately 12% of total cases, with 110 assaults, 8 robberies, and 2 homicides reported. Property crimes, including 230 burglaries and 470 thefts, accounted for most incidents. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing, and residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities, contributing to high case resolution rates. Overall, Franklin County maintains a moderate safety profile compared to similar Kentucky counties.