Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Knott County, KY, had a population of approximately 14,251. The median age is about 44.8 years, with 21% under 18 and 21.8% aged 65 or older. The county is predominantly White (96.9%), with small percentages of Black/African American (0.6%), Native American (0.2%), Asian (0.3%), and Hispanic/Latino (1.1%). The gender split is nearly even, with about 50.5% female and 49.5% male.

Elections

Knott County, KY had approximately 11,000 registered voters as of 2022, with about 87% registered as Democrats, 10% Republicans, and 3% other parties. The county participates in primary and general elections, with recent results showing a trend toward Republican candidates despite the majority Democratic registration. Key polling locations include the Knott County Sportsplex and local schools. Issues of focus include coal industry decline and opioid addiction. The county clerk’s office administers elections. In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump received over 70% of the local vote. Voter turnout averaged around 60% in recent years.

Education, Employment and Housing

Knott County, KY, operates 8 public schools, including Knott County Central High School. The high school graduation rate is approximately 91%, but only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average ACT scores for high school students hover around 18.5, below the national average. The district prioritizes school safety with regular drills and resource officers. Adult education services are available through the Kentucky Skills U program. Educational offerings include AP courses, vocational training, and special education programs.

Knott County, KY, has an employment rate of approximately 35.9% (2022 ACS 5-Year Estimates), with top industries including Health Care & Social Assistance (20.6%), Retail Trade (11.2%), and Educational Services (10.7%). Most workers are employed in office & administrative support, sales, and construction occupations. About 83.8% of workers commute alone by car, with an average travel time of 33 minutes. The majority of residents work outside their home county, notably in nearby Perry and Floyd Counties.

Knott County, KY, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with a median home value around $70,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $525 per month. Property values have remained relatively stable, with slight growth under 2% annually. Single-family homes dominate, with limited apartments and mobile homes. Neighborhoods like Hindman and Pinetop offer rural living and quiet communities. Property tax rates average around 0.65%, meaning annual taxes near $455 for a home at median value. The area’s affordable housing and low taxes attract families and retirees seeking budget-friendly options.

County Crime & Safety

Knott County, KY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent statistics, the violent crime rate is around 4.6 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 12.5 per 1,000, both below Kentucky’s state averages. Local law enforcement reports steady decreases in incidents such as burglary and assault over the past five years. The county emphasizes community policing and transparent crime reporting, contributing to enhanced public safety and awareness. Overall, Knott County is considered a safe community by both residents and state crime index evaluations.