Demographics

As of 2023, Jessamine County, KY has a population of approximately 55,480. The median age is about 38.5 years. The gender split is nearly even, with 50.6% female and 49.4% male. Racially, the county is 89% White, 4.4% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, 1.4% two or more races, and 3% Hispanic or Latino. The population under 18 is about 22%, while seniors (65+) make up 16%.

Elections

Jessamine County, KY, had approximately 39,000 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include primaries, generals, and local contests, with recent turnout in the 2020 general election at 65%. Polling locations include the Jessamine County Courthouse and multiple schools. The county clerk’s office oversees elections. In the 2020 presidential race, Republican Donald Trump received 66% of the vote, while Democrat Joe Biden got 32%. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, with prominent issues including education and infrastructure. Voting is done by paper ballots and machines. Voter registration can be done online or in-person through government offices.

Education, Employment and Housing

Jessamine County, KY has 17 public schools, including 2 high schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 92%, above the state average. About 26% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures include resource officers and upgraded security systems. Schools score an average of 64 out of 100 on state assessments. Educational programs such as gifted and talented, Advanced Placement, and adult education for GED and career readiness are available, supporting lifelong learning in the community.

As of 2023, Jessamine County, KY, has an employment rate of approximately 59.3%. Leading industries include education and health services (25.2%), retail trade (11.7%), and manufacturing (10.4%). The most common occupations are in education, office/administrative support, and sales. About 82% of the workforce commutes by car, with 50% traveling outside the county—primarily to Fayette County (Lexington)—for work. The average commute time is 25.4 minutes.

Jessamine County, KY, has a homeownership rate of about 71%, with median home values around $238,000 (as of 2023). Median gross rent is approximately $1,050. Housing types range from historic homes in Nicholasville to new subdivisions and rural properties. Popular neighborhoods include Brannon Crossing and downtown Wilmore. Recent years have seen a 5-7% annual home value increase. Property taxes are roughly 0.83% of assessed value. The county attracts residents for its relative affordability and mix of suburban and rural options compared to nearby Lexington.

County Crime & Safety

Jessamine County, KY, maintains a crime rate below the national average, with a violent crime rate of approximately 2.2 incidents per 1,000 residents and property crime around 15.5 per 1,000, according to recent FBI data. The county reported a total of about 165 violent crimes and 1,140 property crimes in 2023. Local law enforcement actively encourages community crime reporting and neighborhood watch programs, contributing to higher clearance and response rates. Overall, Jessamine County is considered relatively safe compared to both Kentucky and national figures.