Demographics

As of 2022, Mason County, KY has a population of approximately 17,020. The median age is about 43 years. The population is 90% White, 5.6% Black or African American, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, and 2.9% other races. Females slightly outnumber males, comprising about 51.5% of residents.

Elections

As of 2024, Mason County, KY had approximately 12,800 registered voters. Voters participate in primary, general, and special elections, selecting officials for local, state, and federal offices. In the 2022 general election, voter turnout was about 46%. There are seven polling locations managed by the Mason County Clerk’s Office. The county leans Republican, with GOP candidates winning over 65% of recent major races. Issues frequently debated include economic development and infrastructure. Both the Democratic and Republican parties have local organizations that facilitate registration and mobilization efforts.

Education, Employment and Housing

Mason County, KY has approximately 7 public schools, including Mason County High School. Around 86% of adults hold a high school diploma and 18% have a bachelor's degree or higher. The school district’s average test scores are close to the state average, with Mason County High scoring 50% in math and 47% in reading proficiency (2022–23). School safety measures include security staff and surveillance. Educational programs offer AP courses, dual credit options, and career tech classes. Mason County also provides adult education and GED programs to improve local workforce skills.

As of 2022, Mason County, KY, had an employment rate of 56.2%, with approximately 6,800 employed residents. The largest industries include manufacturing (21.4%), healthcare & social assistance (16.8%), and retail trade (11%). Leading occupations are production (15.4%), office & administrative support (13.2%), and sales (10.2%). Most workers (86%) commute by car, with an average commute time of 22 minutes. Around 65% of residents work within Mason County, while 35% commute to neighboring counties, including Bracken and Lewis counties.

Mason County, KY, offers a median home value of around $125,000 and a homeownership rate of approximately 72%. The median gross rent is about $735. Property values have seen modest growth of roughly 5% year-over-year. Housing options range from historic downtown Maysville homes and new developments to rural single-family houses, with neighborhoods like Washington and Aberdeen being popular. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.85% of assessed value. The market remains affordable compared to state and national averages, catering to both buyers and renters seeking a blend of small-town charm and reasonable cost of living.

County Crime & Safety

Mason County, KY, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state averages, with recent statistics indicating a total crime rate of approximately 1,820 incidents per 100,000 people annually. Property crimes—such as theft and burglary—make up about 85% of reported offenses, while violent crimes account for around 15%. In 2023, the county reported roughly 320 total crimes, including 50 violent and 270 property-related cases. Local law enforcement agencies emphasize community reporting, which has led to a crime clearance rate of approximately 30%, slightly above the national average. Overall, public safety initiatives continue to improve local security.