Johnson County Public RecordsKentucky

As of 2023, Johnson County, KY, has an estimated population of approximately 22,000. The age median is around 43 years, with about 21% under 18 and 20% over 65. The population is 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the county is predominantly White (over 97%), with small percentages of Black or African American (0.5%), Native American (0.2%), Asian (0.4%), and Hispanic or Latino (0.7%) residents.

Johnson County, KY, had approximately 17,500 registered voters as of 2024, with registrations split primarily between Republicans (about 62%) and Democrats (35%). The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with recent results favoring Republican candidates—e.g., in the 2022 Congressional race, Republicans won over 75% of votes. Polling locations include sites in Paintsville and surrounding precincts. Common local issues are economic development and substance abuse. Elections are administered by the Johnson County Clerk's Office. Both major parties are active, though Republicans dominate recent cycles.

Johnson County, KY, hosts 9 public schools, including Johnson Central High School. Around 82% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 16% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average high school graduation rate is approximately 94%. Schools rank academically near the state average, with test scores at about 50th percentile statewide. School safety measures are prioritized, and the district offers technical, vocational, and gifted education programs. Adult education services, such as GED preparation and job training, are available at the Big Sandy Community and Technical College extension in the county.

As of 2022, Johnson County, KY, had an employment rate of approximately 45.7%. Major industries include health care & social assistance (20.6%), retail trade (13.8%), and educational services (12.5%). The leading occupation types are office & administrative support (13.9%) and sales (10.5%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes; most commute within the county, while others travel to nearby Floyd and Pike Counties.

Johnson County, KY, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $97,000 as of 2023. Median monthly rent is approximately $720. The housing market is stable, with modest price increases of 3-5% annually. Most homes are single-family detached houses, with some apartments and mobile homes. Popular neighborhoods include Paintsville and Van Lear, offering quiet, rural living. Property tax rates average 0.77%, resulting in an annual tax of roughly $750 for a median-priced home. The area appeals to both families and retirees due to affordable housing and low taxes.

Johnson County, KY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages, with recent data showing a violent crime rate of 1.2 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 7.8 per 1,000 residents. The sheriff’s office regularly reports incidents, emphasizing community policing and prevention initiatives. In 2022, there were fewer than 20 violent crimes and approximately 130 property crimes reported. Residents generally consider Johnson County a safe place to live, supported by visible law enforcement presence and local crime reporting efforts.