Butler, KY
Population 513 · Kentucky
About Butler, KY
Butler is a small community located in Kentucky with a population of 513 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,309 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.9 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Butler features a median home value of $136,500, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Butler one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $840, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 292 total housing units, 44% are owner-occupied (92 units) and 56% are renter-occupied (115 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Butler shows an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 29.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Butler have an average one-way commute time of 39.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
8.7% of Butler 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 1.2% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Butler, KY
Compared to national averages, Butler has a median household income of $43,309 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $136,500, which is 44% below the national median. Monthly rent at $840 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Butler's income is 35% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 25% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Butler, KY?
Butler offers affordable housing with a median home value of $136,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $840/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,309) that falls below the national average. However, Butler’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Butler has a population of 513 with a median age of 42.9 years. Compare Butler with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
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Economy & Education
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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 Butler
What is the population of Butler, KY?
The population of Butler, KY is 513 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 Butler?
The median household income in Butler, KY is $43,309 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Butler?
The median home value in Butler, KY is $136,500, which is 44% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Butler?
The median monthly rent in Butler, KY is $840, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Butler?
The unemployment rate in Butler, KY is 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Butler, KY a good place to live?
Butler offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 513 and a median age of 42.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Butler, KY?
8.7% of residents in Butler 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 Butler?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Butler, KY: median home value is $136,500 (44% below national), median rent is $840/month, and median household income is $43,309. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Butler?
The poverty rate in Butler, KY is 29.1%, 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 Butler, KY?
Butler's population is 1.2% White, 0.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 3.7% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.