Harlan, KY
Population 2,304 · Kentucky
About Harlan, KY
Harlan is a small community in Kentucky with a population of 2,304 residents. The median household income is $30,365 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Harlan is 39.5 years.
Housing in Harlan has a median home value of $112,500 and median monthly rent of $516. Of the 1,178 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 437 owner-occupied and 588 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Harlan is 13.3% and the poverty rate is 32.2%. 26.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.9 minutes.
How Harlan Ranks in Kentucky
Cost of Living in Harlan, KY
Compared to national averages, Harlan has a median household income of $30,365 (60% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $112,500, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $516 is 56% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Harlan's income is 54% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 38% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Harlan, KY?
Harlan offers affordable housing with a median home value of $112,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $516/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($30,365) that falls below the national average. However, Harlan’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Harlan has a population of 2,304 with a median age of 39.5 years. Compare Harlan with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Harlan
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elk Creek | 2,344 | $127,487 | $358,600 | Compare |
| Fulton | 2,345 | $36,037 | $61,200 | Compare |
| Horse Cave | 2,348 | $51,927 | $93,600 | Compare |
| Mount Vernon | 2,259 | $38,639 | $100,500 | Compare |
| Carlisle | 2,356 | $46,292 | $103,300 | Compare |
| Dry Ridge | 2,250 | $53,641 | $193,200 | Compare |
| Brooks | 2,246 | $70,947 | $203,600 | Compare |
| Cumberland | 2,234 | $35,309 | $61,600 | 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 Harlan
What is the population of Harlan, KY?
The population of Harlan, KY is 2,304 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Harlan?
The median household income in Harlan, KY is $30,365 per year.
What is the median home value in Harlan?
The median home value in Harlan, KY is $112,500.
What is the average rent in Harlan?
The median monthly rent in Harlan, KY is $516.
What is the unemployment rate in Harlan?
The unemployment rate in Harlan, KY is 13.3%.