Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Hickman County, KY, had a population of approximately 4,521. The median age was about 43.9 years. Gender distribution included roughly 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the population was primarily White (about 88.2%), with African Americans making up 7.7%, and other races constituting the remainder, including roughly 1.6% Hispanic or Latino of any race. Hickman County remains one of Kentucky’s least populous counties.

Elections

As of 2022, Hickman County, KY, had approximately 3,000 registered voters, with a Republican majority (over 60%), followed by Democrats and a small percentage of Independents. The county conducts primary and general elections, plus special elections as needed. In the 2020 presidential election, about 70% voted Republican. Voters use four polling locations, including the Hickman County Courthouse. Local issues often include agriculture and economic development. Elections are administered by the county clerk’s office, ensuring compliance with state guidelines. Major parties represented are Republican and Democratic, with limited third-party activity.

Education, Employment and Housing

Hickman County, KY, serves around 600 students across two public schools: Hickman County Elementary and Hickman County High School. The high school graduation rate is approximately 96%, but only about 15% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores are near the state median. The schools prioritize safety with security protocols and resource officers. Educational programs include vocational training and dual-credit college courses. Adult education options focus on GED attainment and job skills, supporting lifelong learning in the community.

Hickman County, KY, has a labor force participation rate of about 53%, with an unemployment rate of approximately 4.6% (2022). Major employment sectors include Education & Health Services (25%), Manufacturing (15%), and Agriculture (13%). Most workers are in management, sales, and office occupations. Around 80% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 26 minutes, primarily to neighboring counties such as Graves and Fulton. Only about 30% of workers are employed within the county itself, while the rest travel outside for employment opportunities.

Hickman County, KY, has a homeownership rate of approximately 78%, with renters making up 22% of households. The median home value is around $94,000, showing modest growth in recent years. Single-family detached homes predominate, with limited apartment options. Key communities include Clinton and Columbus, offering quiet, rural neighborhoods. Median gross rent is about $650 per month. Property taxes are low, with a median annual property tax of roughly $645, making the county affordable for residents seeking budget-friendly living in a small-town setting.

County Crime & Safety

Hickman County, KY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported a violent crime rate of approximately 1.2 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate around 8.4 per 1,000. Most reported incidents involve property-related offenses, with burglaries and thefts being the most common. Law enforcement actively encourages prompt reporting, which contributes to effective crime prevention and resolution. Overall, Hickman County is considered a safe community with crime rates significantly below Kentucky’s averages.