Madison County Public RecordsKentucky

As of the 2020 Census, Madison County, KY, had a population of 92,748. The median age was 35.2 years. Females composed 52% and males 48%. Racially, the county was 87.8% White, 6.4% Black or African American, 2.2% Asian, and 3.6% Hispanic or Latino of any race. This demographic mix is influenced by the presence of Eastern Kentucky University and a steadily growing population.

Madison County, KY, has about 70,000 registered voters as of 2024, with registrations split primarily among Republicans and Democrats, though independents are growing. The county participates in primary, general, and special elections, with turnout in the 2020 general election at 65%. Key issues include education and local infrastructure. Elections are administered by the Madison County Clerk, who oversees 18 polling locations. In recent elections, Republicans have held a slight lead in countywide results. Local parties remain active in community outreach and voter engagement efforts.

Madison County, KY, is served primarily by Madison County Schools and Berea Independent Schools, totaling over 25 public schools, including 2 main high schools: Madison Central and Madison Southern. The average high school graduation rate is about 91%. Around 25% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety scores are above state average, with effective resource officer programs. Educational offerings include AP, gifted programs, and vocational training. Adult education is supported by the Madison County Adult Education Center. Schools consistently earn performance scores above 60 on state assessments, reflecting solid academic achievement.

As of 2023, Madison County, KY has an employment rate of approximately 95.5%, with major industries including healthcare (16%), education (15%), and retail trade (13%). Top occupations are office/administrative support (14%), sales (11%), and education/training/library (10%). Average commute time is 22 minutes, with 82% of residents driving alone and 11% carpooling. While about 53% of workers are employed within the county—particularly in Richmond—47% commute to nearby areas like Lexington.

Madison County, KY, has a homeownership rate of approximately 65%, with median home values around $215,000 as of 2024. The rental market’s median monthly rent is about $1,100. Housing options include single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses, with popular neighborhoods such as Richmond, Berea, and Waco. Property values have risen nearly 8% year-over-year, reflecting a strong seller’s market. Property tax rates average 0.84%, making the area affordable compared to the national average. The area continues to attract residents with its diverse housing stock and reasonable costs.

Madison County, KY, reports a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2023, the county had a violent crime rate of approximately 2.6 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 18.3 per 1,000. Richmond, the largest city, sees higher incidents than rural areas. Local law enforcement maintains an active presence, with over 17,000 calls annually and a 94% clearance rate for violent crimes. Community policing and neighborhood watch programs help keep residents engaged in crime prevention and reporting.