Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Morgan County, KY has a population of 13,726. About 53% are male and 47% female. The median age is 41.2 years. Racially, the county is predominantly White (94.6%), with smaller percentages of Black or African American (3.1%), mixed races (1.7%), and Hispanic or Latino origin (0.9%). The population under 18 is approximately 18.2%, and those 65 or older make up 18.6%.
Elections
Morgan County, KY, had 9,382 registered voters as of 2023, predominantly Democratic (approx. 62%), with Republicans at 34% and others 4%. Elections include federal, state, and local offices—recent results in 2022 saw Republicans gaining ground. Main polling locations include the Morgan County Courthouse and Morgan Central Elementary. Election administration is overseen by the county clerk, and key issues involve economic development and public health. Turnout in the 2022 general election was about 49%. The county features active Democratic and Republican parties, reflecting increased GOP momentum in recent cycles.
Education, Employment and Housing
Morgan County, KY, operates 6 public schools, including Morgan County High School. About 76% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 10% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district reports an average accountability score of 55.5 (2023). School safety initiatives include resource officers and mental health programs. Educational offerings feature vocational training, dual credit courses, and career readiness programs. Adult education is available through Morehead State University’s outreach center, supporting GED and continuing education.
As of 2022, Morgan County, KY, had an employment rate of approximately 45.4%, with a labor force of about 4,050 people. The largest employment sectors are Health Care & Social Assistance (21.6%), Retail Trade (13.2%), and Educational Services (11.1%). Most workers (57.6%) have occupations in management, business, science, and arts. The average commute time is 28 minutes, with 82% of residents driving alone to work. Major employment destinations include West Liberty and neighboring counties such as Rowan and Johnson for job opportunities.
Morgan County, KY, has a homeownership rate of approximately 75%, with median home values around $109,000 in 2023. Rentals comprise 25% of residences, with median rents near $650 per month. Property values have increased about 7% year-over-year. Housing types include primarily single-family homes and some manufactured houses, with popular neighborhoods like West Liberty. Property tax rates are relatively low, averaging $0.98 per $100 of assessed value. The market remains affordable compared to statewide averages, making Morgan County attractive for buyers and renters alike.
County Crime & Safety
Morgan County, KY has a lower crime rate compared to national averages, with a violent crime rate of approximately 1.7 incidents per 1,000 residents and property crime at 10.2 per 1,000, according to recent FBI data. The overall crime rate here is 61% lower than the state average. Local law enforcement agencies actively monitor and report crime statistics, contributing to the county's reputation for safety. Residents generally report feeling secure, and community programs help maintain a strong focus on crime prevention and neighborhood watch initiatives.
Popular names
- Lisa Thompson
- Angela Lewis
- James Smith
- James Wright
- James Phipps
- William Walter
- Anthony Stamper
- Brittany Bailey
- David Smith
- Heather Keeton
- James Adkins
- James Cantrell
- James Williams
- Jason Lewis
- Jessica Howard
- John Lewis
- Kimberly Smith
- Larry Wright
- Michael Smith
- Timothy Keeton
- Timothy Smith
- Amanda Adkins
- Amanda Boyd
- Amanda Wright
- Angela Ferguson
- Anthony Cantrell
- Billy Smith
- Chad Caskey
- Charlene Adkins
- Clara Tharp
- Cody Harper
- Constance Peters
- Daniel Ferguson
- David Bailey
- David Nickell
- Dean Smith
- Deborha Williams
- Derek Lewis
- Donnie Wright
- Elizabeth Lykins
- Gretta Moore
- Harold Perry
- James Elam
- James Gevedon
- James Morris
- Jason Davis
- Jennifer Cantrell
- Jennifer Moore
- Jennifer Smith
- Jessica Holbrook
- Jessica Robbins
- Joseph Helton
- Joyce Morris
- Julia Elam
- Kayla Adkins
- Keisha Cantrell
- Kenneth Cantrell
- Kyle Howell
- Larry Williams
- Lowell Hager
Other Counties in Kentucky
- Adair
- Allen
- Anderson
- Ballard
- Barren
- Bath
- Bell
- Boone
- Bourbon
- Boyd
- Boyle
- Bracken
- Breathitt
- Breckinridge
- Bullitt
- Butler
- Caldwell
- Calloway
- Campbell
- Carlisle
- Carroll
- Carter
- Casey
- Christian
- Clark
- Clay
- Clinton
- Crittenden
- Cumberland
- Daviess
- Edmonson
- Elliott
- Estill
- Fayette
- Fleming
- Floyd
- Franklin
- Fulton
- Gallatin
- Garrard
- Grant
- Graves
- Grayson
- Green
- Greenup
- Hancock
- Hardin
- Harlan
- Harrison
- Hart
- Henderson