Hancock County Public RecordsKentucky

As of the 2020 Census, Hancock County, KY had a population of approximately 9,095. The median age was about 41 years. The gender split was nearly even, with 50.6% male and 49.4% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (94.7%), with small percentages of Black or African American (1.4%), two or more races (2.9%), and Hispanic or Latino individuals (2.0%).

Hancock County, KY, has around 6,500 registered voters as of 2023, with registration split mainly between Republicans (approx. 62%) and Democrats (about 36%). Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections, including recent contests for magistrate, school board, and the U.S. Senate. In the 2022 general election, turnout was 52%. Main polling locations include the Hawesville Community Center and Hancock County High School. Local issues involve economic development and school funding. The County Clerk’s office manages election administration. Republicans have dominated recent results, reflecting a shift from a historically Democratic region.

Hancock County, KY, has four public schools (2 elementary, 1 middle, 1 high school) serving around 1,400 students. The high school graduation rate is over 95%, but only about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the state average. Schools score around 60-70% on statewide assessments. Educational programs include career and technical education. School safety measures meet state standards, with low reported incidents. The district also offers adult education and GED programs, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve educational attainment in the county.

As of 2023, Hancock County, KY, had an unemployment rate of approximately 4.2%. Manufacturing dominates local employment, accounting for over 50% of jobs, with industries like aluminum production being major employers. The most common occupation type is production work, making up 38% of the workforce. About 67% of workers commute outside the county, with Owensboro and Daviess County being frequent employment destinations. The average commute time is 24 minutes, reflecting the rural character and regional economic ties.

Hancock County, KY, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, significantly higher than the national average, with median home values around $148,000 as of 2023. Rental units are limited, with median gross rents near $650/month. The housing market remains stable, showing moderate annual appreciation of 3–4%. Most homes are single-family, with few multifamily dwellings. Key neighborhoods include Hawesville and Lewisport, offering small-town, rural atmospheres. Property taxes are low, with an average effective rate of 0.72%. Overall, Hancock County provides affordable housing and a strong ownership community.

Hancock County, KY, reports notably low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, its violent crime rate was 1.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, significantly below Kentucky's average of 2.6. Property crime stood at 6.7 per 1,000, also less than the state’s 16.2 average. Local law enforcement maintains strong community engagement and responsive reporting, with a clearance rate of over 40%. Residents and visitors generally experience a high sense of safety, as reflected in annual surveys and public records.