Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Lyon County, Kentucky, had a population of 8,680. The median age was around 44.6 years, with about 52% male and 48% female residents. Racially, the county was predominantly White (89.5%), followed by Black or African American (7.6%), and smaller percentages of Asian (0.3%), Native American (0.2%), and other races. Hispanic or Latino residents made up about 1.7% of the population.

Elections

Lyon County, KY, has approximately 6,500 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with the 2022 general election recording a 53% turnout. Voting occurs at several polling locations, including Lee S. Jones Park and the Kuttawa City Hall. The county is administered by the Lyon County Clerk, with Republicans comprising about 77% of registered voters, Democrats 19%, and others 4%. Key issues include local economic development and education. In the 2022 county judge race, the Republican candidate won by a 2,100-to-800 margin.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lyon County, KY, serves its students primarily through Lyon County Schools, which includes one elementary, one middle, and one high school. The high school graduation rate is approximately 96%. About 15% of adults (25+) hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures scored above average, with discipline incidents below the state average. Educational programs feature dual credit courses and career/technical education. The district's average test scores meet or slightly exceed Kentucky state averages, and adult education is supported by regional programs.

Lyon County, KY has an employment rate of approximately 57.9% (age 16+). Major industries include manufacturing (13.8%), healthcare (14.5%), and public administration (21.2%), with common occupations in management, office, and production roles. About 78% of workers commute alone by car, with an average travel time of 25 minutes; most work within the county, while some commute to Marshall and Caldwell counties. The unemployment rate remained around 4.5% in 2023.

Lyon County, KY, features a homeownership rate of approximately 82%, with median home values around $160,000 and median gross rents near $650 per month. The housing market has shown moderate appreciation, with values rising about 8% year-over-year. Predominant housing types include single-family homes and some lakefront properties near Kentucky Lake. Notable neighborhoods are Eddyville and Kuttawa. The county’s property tax rate is roughly 0.64%, making it relatively affordable compared to many areas. The rental market remains limited but stable, catering largely to seasonal residents and retirees.

County Crime & Safety

Lyon County, KY, reports lower crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was 1.7 per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate stood at 7.3 per 1,000. The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office actively reports and addresses incidents, with 52 total crimes recorded in 2022. Local law enforcement maintains a visible presence, contributing to a generally safe environment. Overall, Lyon County’s crime and safety statistics suggest it is a safer area within Kentucky, with ongoing community initiatives supporting continued low crime rates.