Barlow, KY
Population 508 · Kentucky
About Barlow, KY
Barlow is a small community located in Kentucky with a population of 508 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $30,069 per year, which is 60% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.5 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Barlow features a median home value of $80,700, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Barlow one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $579, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 313 total housing units, 55% are owner-occupied (129 units) and 45% are renter-occupied (106 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Barlow shows an unemployment rate of 1.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 31.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Barlow have an average one-way commute time of 20.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.0% of Barlow residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
How Barlow Ranks in Kentucky
Cost of Living in Barlow, KY
Compared to national averages, Barlow has a median household income of $30,069 (60% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $80,700, which is 67% below the national median. Monthly rent at $579 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Barlow's income is 55% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 56% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Barlow, KY?
Barlow offers affordable housing with a median home value of $80,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $579/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.4%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($30,069) that falls below the national average. However, Barlow’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Barlow has a population of 508 with a median age of 31.5 years. Compare Barlow with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Barlow
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
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.
Compare Barlow With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Barlow
What is the population of Barlow, KY?
The population of Barlow, KY is 508 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Kentucky.
What is the median household income in Barlow?
The median household income in Barlow, KY is $30,069 per year, which is 60% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Barlow?
The median home value in Barlow, KY is $80,700, which is 67% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Barlow?
The median monthly rent in Barlow, KY is $579, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Barlow?
The unemployment rate in Barlow, KY is 1.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Barlow, KY a good place to live?
Barlow offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 508 and a median age of 31.5, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Barlow, KY?
10.0% of residents in Barlow aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Barlow?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Barlow, KY: median home value is $80,700 (67% below national), median rent is $579/month, and median household income is $30,069. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Barlow?
The poverty rate in Barlow, KY is 31.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Barlow, KY?
Barlow's population is 0.0% White, 0.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 6.1% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.