Demographics
As of 2022, Hardin County, KY has an estimated population of approximately 113,000. The median age is around 37. Females make up roughly 51% of the population, while males are 49%. The racial composition is about 77% White, 13% Black or African American, 6% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, and 2% identifying as two or more races. This diverse demographic reflects steady growth and a balanced gender distribution in the county.
Elections
As of 2024, Hardin County, KY had over 79,000 registered voters. Voters participate in primary, general, and special elections at 20+ polling locations. In the 2020 general election, turnout was 63%, with Republicans (approx. 59%) outnumbering Democrats (36%) and Independents (5%). The County Clerk’s office administers elections, addressing issues like redistricting and mail-in ballot access. Recent results favor the GOP, with Republicans winning most county and state races. Local issues include economic development and education. Major parties active include the Republican and Democratic parties, with Libertarians also present in lower numbers.
Education, Employment and Housing
Hardin County, KY, serves over 14,000 students across 27 public schools, including 3 high schools. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, with 22% earning a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district’s average state test score is 55% proficient in reading and math. School safety initiatives include School Resource Officers in all high schools. Specialized educational programs, such as STEM and career pathways, are offered, and the Hardin County Adult Education center supports GED completion, improving community education levels.
As of 2023, Hardin County, KY, reported an unemployment rate of approximately 4.1%. Major employment sectors include manufacturing (19%), health care and social assistance (15%), and retail trade (12%). The leading occupation types are production (15%), office/administrative support (13%), and sales-related roles (11%). Around 81% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. While most residents work within the county, about 37% commute to nearby counties such as Jefferson and Meade for employment opportunities.
Hardin County, KY, has a homeownership rate of around 62%, with median home values at approximately $200,000 in 2024, showing a 7% annual increase. Median rent is about $1,100 per month. Housing types range from single-family homes to apartments, with neighborhoods like Elizabethtown and Radcliff being popular. The property tax rate averages 0.83% of assessed value. Recent development trends show growth in suburban and mixed-use areas, reflecting increased demand due to Fort Knox’s proximity.
County Crime & Safety
Hardin County, KY, reported a crime rate of 17.2 per 1,000 residents in 2023, lower than the national average. Violent crimes made up roughly 1.9 per 1,000, while property crimes stood at 15.3 per 1,000 residents. The sheriff’s office and local police utilize regular patrols, community outreach, and transparent reporting to enhance safety. Crime rates decreased by about 8% compared to 2022, reflecting ongoing prevention efforts. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity via the county’s tip lines, contributing to the region’s overall safety and rapid incident response times.
Popular names
- James Smith
- James Johnson
- Michael Miller
- Michael Smith
- Michael Johnson
- Ashley Brown
- David Smith
- Mary Brown
- Michael Williams
- Robert Brown
- Charles Williams
- Angela Johnson
- Anthony Brown
- Robert Hill
- John Brown
- John Smith
- Michael Jones
- Robert Johnson
- William Jones
- James Clark
- James Jones
- James Williams
- John Thomas
- James Brown
- John Johnson
- Mary Smith
- Robert Williams
- William Miller
- Christopher Smith
- Christopher Williams
- Gregory Smith
- James Jackson
- James Miller
- James Wilson
- Mark Thompson
- Mary Thompson
- Melissa Smith
- Michael Thompson
- Thomas Smith
- William Thomas
- Angela Smith
- Charles Brown
- James Howard
- James Thompson
- Jennifer Brown
- Jennifer Williams
- Jessica Moore
- Joshua Sanders
- Mary Williams
- Paul Smith
- Robert Smith
- Ryan Smith
- Stephanie Smith
- Thomas Clark
- Thomas Miller
- William Smith
- Charles Smith
- Christopher Wilson
- Daniel Miller
- David Clark
Other Counties in Kentucky
- Adair
- Allen
- Anderson
- Ballard
- Barren
- Bath
- Bell
- Boone
- Bourbon
- Boyd
- Boyle
- Bracken
- Breathitt
- Breckinridge
- Bullitt
- Butler
- Caldwell
- Calloway
- Campbell
- Carlisle
- Carroll
- Carter
- Casey
- Christian
- Clark
- Clay
- Clinton
- Crittenden
- Cumberland
- Daviess
- Edmonson
- Elliott
- Estill
- Fayette
- Fleming
- Floyd
- Franklin
- Fulton
- Gallatin
- Garrard
- Grant
- Graves
- Grayson
- Green
- Greenup
- Hancock
- Harlan
- Harrison
- Hart
- Henderson