Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Spencer County, KY, had a population of 19,490. The median age was 41.3 years. The gender distribution was roughly equal, with 49.8% male and 50.2% female. The racial and ethnic makeup was predominantly White (94.1%), followed by Black or African American (1.7%), individuals of two or more races (2.8%), Hispanic or Latino (2.1%), and other groups making up less than 1%.

Elections

Spencer County, KY has around 15,000 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include primaries, generals, and local races. In the 2020 presidential election, about 76% voted Republican, 22% Democrat. Major issues include school funding and infrastructure. There are 5 polling locations, such as Taylorsville Elementary. The Spencer County Clerk’s Office oversees election administration. The county leans heavily Republican, with the GOP holding most local offices. Voter turnout in recent major elections averaged approximately 65%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Spencer County, KY, serves over 2,800 students in 5 public schools, including Spencer County High School. About 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 14% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district earned a Kentucky School Report Card score of 72.5 (2022). It boasts robust programs in CTE (career and technical education) and AP courses. School safety measures include resource officers and security upgrades. Adult education programs offer GED preparation, improving local educational attainment.

As of 2022, Spencer County, KY had an employment rate of about 62.9%. The largest industries were Health Care & Social Assistance (14.2%), Retail Trade (11.6%), and Manufacturing (9.6%). Most residents held management, business, science, and arts occupations (35%). A significant portion (over 72%) of workers commuted outside the county, mainly to Louisville/Jefferson County. Average commute time was around 33 minutes, indicating a strong reliance on neighboring urban centers for employment opportunities.

Spencer County, KY, features a high homeownership rate of approximately 88%, with median home values around $280,000 as of 2023. The rental market is limited, with typical rents averaging $1,100 monthly. Housing stock is primarily single-family homes in suburban and rural settings, notably in neighborhoods like Taylorsville and Elk Creek. Property values have risen about 7% year-over-year, reflecting strong demand. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging 0.7% of assessed home value.

County Crime & Safety

Spencer County, KY, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 120 total crimes, with 15 violent crimes (including assault and robbery) and 105 property crimes (burglary, theft, and vehicle theft). The crime rate stands at about 7.3 per 1,000 residents, lower than Kentucky’s average of 22.7. Local law enforcement encourages prompt crime reporting, contributing to effective policing and community safety. The county’s overall safe environment is reflected in high clearance rates and strong resident involvement in safety initiatives.