Demographics

As of 2023, Harrison County, KY, has a population of approximately 18,000. The median age is about 41 years. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.4% female and 49.6% male residents. Racially, the county is predominantly White (92.5%), followed by Black or African American (3.9%), Hispanic or Latino (2.2%), and smaller percentages of Asian, Native American, and multiracial individuals.

Elections

Harrison County, KY had approximately 14,300 registered voters in 2022, split mainly between Republican (about 61%) and Democratic (about 32%) parties, with the rest unaffiliated or minor parties. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, with polling locations including the Harrison County High School and courthouse. In the 2020 presidential election, Republicans won with 72% of the county vote. Local election administration is managed by the Harrison County Clerk. Major issues include local economic development and infrastructure. Voter turnout in recent general elections averaged around 53%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Harrison County, KY, features 5 public schools, including Harrison County High School. Approximately 86% of adults have a high school diploma, while 15% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district serves around 3,000 students, with a graduation rate near 93%. Average standardized test scores are close to state averages. School safety protocols receive regular updates, and schools offer programs like Advanced Placement and vocational training. Adult education is available through the Harrison County Adult Education Center, supporting GED and workforce skills.

As of 2022, Harrison County, KY had an employment rate of approximately 57%, with 7,020 residents in the labor force. Major industries include Manufacturing (23%), Educational Services, Health Care & Social Assistance (20%), and Retail Trade (14%). The largest occupational groups are Production (17%), Office & Administrative Support (15%), and Sales (10%). About 77% of workers commute outside the county, mainly to Fayette, Scott, and Bourbon counties, with an average commute time of 27 minutes. Local employment centers include Cynthiana, the county seat.

Harrison County, KY, has a homeownership rate around 68%, with median home values near $160,000 as of 2023, and median gross rents about $770. The local housing market has seen modest appreciation of 3-5% annually. Predominant housing types are single-family homes, particularly in neighborhoods like Friendship Acres and sections of Cynthiana. Property tax rates average 0.8% of assessed value, lower than the national average. Rental properties are limited, with most residents choosing ownership. Neighborhoods are largely quiet and family-friendly, with a blend of historic and newer developments.

County Crime & Safety

Harrison County, KY, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was around 14.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, with violent crimes representing only 1.8 per 1,000. Property crime is more prevalent, at approximately 12.4 per 1,000. The Harrison County Sheriff's Office and Cynthiana Police Department actively encourage crime reporting, contributing to improved public safety awareness. Consistent with rural Kentucky trends, the county experiences fewer serious crimes than urban areas, though vigilance and community engagement remain priorities for law enforcement.