Harlan County's 2026 population is estimated at 24,552, reflecting a -1.01% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Harlan County is the 48th largest county in Kentucky. The 2010 population was 29,223 and has grown -15.98% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 40.9 years
Female: 42.6 years
Male: 39.8 years
There are 19,652 adults, (5,020 of whom are seniors) in Harlan County.
Female: 13,323 (51.7%)
Male: 12,449 (48.3%)
The racial composition of Harlan County includes 94.17% White, and smaller percentages for Black or African American, other race, Asian, Native American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 24,269 | 94.17% |
| Two or more races | 984 | 3.82% |
| Black or African American | 328 | 1.27% |
| Other race | 67 | 0.26% |
| Asian | 58 | 0.23% |
| Native American | 56 | 0.22% |
| Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander | 10 | 0.04% |
Harlan County 's average per capita income is $36,420. Household income levels show a median of $41,693. The poverty rate stands at 27.37%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $61,114 | - |
| Families | $53,133 | $65,274 |
| Households | $41,693 | $55,003 |
| Non Families | $19,348 | $26,757 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate
