Ashland, KY
Population 21,405 · Kentucky
About Ashland, KY
Ashland is a mid-sized city in Kentucky with a population of 21,405 residents. The median household income is $52,199 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Ashland is 41.1 years.
Housing in Ashland has a median home value of $125,300 and median monthly rent of $859. Of the 10,782 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 5,607 owner-occupied and 3,749 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Ashland is 8.4% and the poverty rate is 22.8%. 24.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 20.8 minutes.
How Ashland Ranks in Kentucky
Cost of Living in Ashland, KY
Compared to national averages, Ashland has a median household income of $52,199 (31% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $125,300, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $859 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Ashland's income is 21% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 31% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Ashland, KY?
Ashland offers affordable housing with a median home value of $125,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $859/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,199) that falls below the national average. However, Ashland’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ashland has a population of 21,405 with a median age of 41.1 years. Compare Ashland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Ashland
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Radcliff | 22,967 | $60,976 | $163,300 | Compare |
| Erlanger | 19,677 | $78,420 | $189,400 | Compare |
| Madisonville | 19,442 | $56,902 | $152,300 | Compare |
| Winchester | 19,133 | $57,653 | $180,400 | Compare |
| Mount Washington | 18,228 | $93,852 | $253,700 | Compare |
| Burlington | 18,090 | $101,550 | $229,700 | Compare |
| Murray | 17,888 | $40,348 | $193,300 | Compare |
| St. Matthews | 17,491 | $80,716 | $325,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Kentucky
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ashland
What is the population of Ashland, KY?
The population of Ashland, KY is 21,405 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Ashland?
The median household income in Ashland, KY is $52,199 per year.
What is the median home value in Ashland?
The median home value in Ashland, KY is $125,300.
What is the average rent in Ashland?
The median monthly rent in Ashland, KY is $859.
What is the unemployment rate in Ashland?
The unemployment rate in Ashland, KY is 8.4%.