Clarkson, KY
Population 1,133 · Kentucky
About Clarkson, KY
Clarkson is a small town located in Kentucky with a population of 1,133 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $28,393 per year, which is 62% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31 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 Clarkson features a median home value of $121,900, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Clarkson one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $575, 51% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 447 total housing units, 37% are owner-occupied (143 units) and 63% are renter-occupied (247 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 Clarkson shows an unemployment rate of 4.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 39.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Clarkson have an average one-way commute time of 23 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.3% of Clarkson 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 8.6% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.2% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How Clarkson Ranks in Kentucky
Cost of Living in Clarkson, KY
Compared to national averages, Clarkson has a median household income of $28,393 (62% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,900, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $575 is 51% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Clarkson's income is 57% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 33% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Clarkson, KY?
Clarkson offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $575/month, and short commute times averaging just 23 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($28,393) that falls below the national average. However, Clarkson’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Clarkson has a population of 1,133 with a median age of 31 years. Compare Clarkson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Clarkson
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Point | 1,131 | $37,260 | $68,200 | Compare |
| Irvington | 1,129 | $48,750 | $113,500 | Compare |
| Earlington | 1,113 | $34,904 | $64,400 | Compare |
| Clay | 1,112 | $43,884 | $75,600 | Compare |
| Northfield | 1,104 | $110,714 | $485,800 | Compare |
| Silver Grove | 1,104 | $46,315 | $103,400 | Compare |
| Muldraugh | 1,164 | $47,059 | $77,300 | Compare |
| Philpot | 1,098 | $85,833 | $242,100 | 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.
Compare Clarkson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Clarkson
What is the population of Clarkson, KY?
The population of Clarkson, KY is 1,133 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Kentucky.
What is the median household income in Clarkson?
The median household income in Clarkson, KY is $28,393 per year, which is 62% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Clarkson?
The median home value in Clarkson, KY is $121,900, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Clarkson?
The median monthly rent in Clarkson, KY is $575, which is 51% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Clarkson?
The unemployment rate in Clarkson, KY is 4.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Clarkson, KY a good place to live?
Clarkson offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,133 and a median age of 31, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Clarkson, KY?
12.3% of residents in Clarkson 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 Clarkson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Clarkson, KY: median home value is $121,900 (50% below national), median rent is $575/month, and median household income is $28,393. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Clarkson?
The poverty rate in Clarkson, KY is 39.6%, 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 Clarkson, KY?
Clarkson's population is 8.6% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.