Demographics

As of 2023, Union County, KY, has an estimated population of approximately 13,300. The median age is around 41 years. Females represent about 51%, and males about 49%. The racial makeup is predominantly White (88%), followed by Black or African American (7%), and smaller proportions of Hispanic or Latino (2%), and other races (3%). The county’s population is relatively stable, with modest diversity and an older median age compared to state averages.

Elections

Union County, KY, had approximately 10,100 registered voters in 2023, primarily affiliated with the Democratic and Republican parties. Elections include local, state, and federal contests, with the 2022 general election seeing a 41% turnout. Major polling locations include Union County Middle School and Uniontown City Hall. Recent issues included school funding and road improvements. The Union County Clerk’s office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state laws. In the 2022 U.S. Senate race, Republican Rand Paul received 65% of the county’s vote while Democrat Charles Booker garnered 34%.

Education, Employment and Housing

Union County, KY, has 8 public schools, including 1 high school—Union County High School—which has a graduation rate of 91%. Only 12.6% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average statewide school safety score is 7/10, and Union County operates comprehensive anti-bullying programs. Educational offerings include vocational training and dual-credit courses. Adult education is supported through local GED and workforce development programs, helping raise the high school completion rate to 83%.

Union County, KY, has an employment rate of about 54% (2022, U.S. Census). Major industries include mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (19%), health care and social assistance (14%), and manufacturing (12%). Leading occupations are production (16%), management (13%), and construction (9%). Approximately 76% of workers drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 22 minutes. Most residents work within the county, but some commute to nearby Henderson and Webster counties for employment.

Union County, KY features a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median home values around $110,000 as of 2023. Renting accounts for roughly 30% of households, with median rents near $700/month. The local real estate market has seen modest annual appreciation near 3%. Housing types range from single-family homes to some apartments, especially in Morganfield. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.68% of home value. Popular neighborhoods include Morganfield, Sturgis, and Waverly, offering affordable options and a rural community feel.

County Crime & Safety

Union County, KY maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to the latest FBI data, the county reported approximately 105 property crimes and 12 violent crimes in 2023. The overall crime rate is about 10 per 1,000 residents, significantly below Kentucky’s average of 22 per 1,000. Law enforcement presence is consistent, and community programs contribute to local safety. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity, contributing to quick incident responses and transparent crime reporting.