Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Washington County, KY had a population of 12,027. The median age was about 41.2 years. About 50.2% were female and 49.8% male. Racially, the population was 90.7% White, 5.4% Black or African American, 1.4% two or more races, and 1.3% Hispanic or Latino. The county remains predominantly rural with modest population growth in recent years.

Elections

As of 2024, Washington County, KY has approximately 9,400 registered voters. Elections include local, state, and federal contests, with recent turnout around 45%. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, with 2022 results favoring GOP candidates by a 60-40 margin. Key issues include agriculture and education. There are 10 polling locations administered by the County Clerk’s office, ensuring compliance with state regulations. Voters can also utilize early and absentee voting; in 2022, about 800 ballots were absentee. The county’s administration oversees fair, accessible elections and regularly updates precinct boundaries as needed.

Education, Employment and Housing

Washington County, KY, features 4 public schools, including Washington County High School, serving around 1,400 students district-wide. Approximately 78% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 16% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average test scores in public schools are near the state average, with Washington County High scoring 17/100 by U.S. News. The district emphasizes safety with resource officers and modern security systems. Educational programs include AP courses, career and technical training, and adult education programs such as GED classes and workforce development initiatives.

Washington County, KY had an unemployment rate of approximately 3.6% in 2023. Leading industries include manufacturing (18%), health care and social assistance (14%), and retail trade (12%). Major occupation types are production (16%), office and administrative support (13%), and management (11%). Around 78% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 28 minutes; 62% work outside the county, primarily in neighboring Nelson and Marion counties.

Washington County, KY, has a homeownership rate of approximately 76%, with a median home value of around $158,000 in 2023. Median monthly rent is about $700. The housing market has seen a 4% annual value increase since 2022. Most homes are single-family houses, with some multi-family and mobile homes. Notable neighborhoods include Springfield and Willisburg. Property taxes average $0.93 per $100 of assessed value, among the lower rates in Kentucky, contributing to the area's affordability and appeal for both buyers and renters.

County Crime & Safety

Washington County, KY, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the total crime rate was approximately 820 incidents per 100,000 residents, with violent crimes comprising only 5% of cases. Property crime, including burglary and theft, accounted for 78% of reported offenses. The county saw just 2 violent crimes and 36 property crimes reported last year. Local law enforcement encourages community vigilance and quick incident reporting, contributing to higher case resolution rates. Overall, Washington County is considered a safe community with consistent, transparent crime reporting practices.