Mccreary County Public RecordsKentucky

As of 2022, McCreary County, KY has an estimated population of 16,742. The median age is 40.6 years, with 49.5% male and 50.5% female residents. The racial and ethnic makeup is predominantly White (94.1%), followed by Black or African American (2.5%), Native American (0.5%), and those of two or more races (2.7%). Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 1.4% of the population.

McCreary County, KY, has one public high school—McCreary Central High School—and several elementary and middle schools, totaling around 6 public schools. The high school graduation rate is about 87%, but only around 5% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, well below the national average. School safety ratings are average, with few major incidents reported. McCreary schools offer vocational programs, special education, and dual credit options. Adult education is available via the McCreary County Adult Education Center, serving dozens annually. Test scores generally fall below state averages, reflecting local socioeconomic challenges.

As of 2022, McCreary County, KY, had an employment rate of approximately 39.5%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (23.5%), Retail Trade (16.2%), and Manufacturing (14.7%). Most residents work in Office & Administrative Support (13.8%), Production (11.4%), and Sales (9.7%) occupations. About 76.3% of workers commute outside McCreary County for employment, with many traveling to Pulaski and Whitley counties. The average commute time is 35.6 minutes, highlighting the county’s role as a bedroom community for nearby employment centers.

McCreary County, KY, has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median home values around $75,000 and median rent near $600/month. The housing market remains stable, with slight increases in property values over recent years. Most homes are single-family houses, with some mobile homes and limited multi-family units. Neighborhoods are primarily rural with small communities like Whitley City and Stearns. Property taxes are low—averaging 0.5% of assessed value—making homeownership affordable compared to state and national averages. Rental options are limited, and vacancy rates tend to be low.

McCreary County, KY has around 9,500 registered voters as of 2023, predominantly Republican (about 75%), with Democrats (around 20%) and Independents making up the rest. Elections include primaries, generals, and local municipal votes. In the 2020 Presidential election, Donald Trump secured 88% of the county’s vote. Polling locations include the McCreary County Courthouse and various local schools. Common issues concern unemployment rates and healthcare access. The McCreary County Clerk administers elections, and voter turnout ranges from 40%–55% depending on the cycle. The county’s political landscape remains staunchly conservative.

McCreary County, KY has a higher-than-average crime rate compared to state and national levels. According to recent FBI statistics, the violent crime rate is approximately 325 per 100,000 residents, while property crime stands at 2,450 per 100,000 residents. The county reported over 220 total crimes in 2023, with theft and burglary being the most common offenses. Law enforcement agencies actively encourage community reporting, contributing to a clearance rate of around 30%. Despite challenges, local initiatives aim to improve public safety and reduce crime rates through increased patrols and neighborhood programs.