Island, KY
Population 616 · Kentucky
About Island, KY
Island is a small community located in Kentucky with a population of 616 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,875 per year, which is 35% 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 Island features a median home value of $72,100, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Island one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $916, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 266 total housing units, 81% are owner-occupied (211 units) and 19% are renter-occupied (50 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Island shows an unemployment rate of 14.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Island have an average one-way commute time of 33.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.2% of Island 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 0.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Island Ranks in Kentucky
Cost of Living in Island, KY
Compared to national averages, Island has a median household income of $48,875 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $72,100, which is 71% below the national median. Monthly rent at $916 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Island's income is 26% below the state average of $66,273, and home values are 60% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Island, KY?
Island offers affordable housing with a median home value of $72,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $916/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.7%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,875) that falls below the national average. However, Island’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Island has a population of 616 with a median age of 42.9 years. Compare Island with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Island
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Millstone | 617 | $40,325 | $0 | Compare |
| Parkway Village | 613 | $85,875 | $236,900 | Compare |
| Glenview | 612 | $250,001 | $1,061,400 | Compare |
| Rolling Fields | 612 | $241,250 | $824,700 | Compare |
| Lynnview | 609 | $56,016 | $140,200 | Compare |
| Poplar Hills | 623 | $23,958 | $0 | Compare |
| Woodland Hills | 625 | $86,528 | $241,200 | Compare |
| Fincastle | 606 | $85,500 | $253,300 | 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 Island With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Island
What is the population of Island, KY?
The population of Island, KY is 616 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 Island?
The median household income in Island, KY is $48,875 per year, which is 35% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Island?
The median home value in Island, KY is $72,100, which is 71% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Island?
The median monthly rent in Island, KY is $916, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Island?
The unemployment rate in Island, KY is 14.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Island, KY a good place to live?
Island offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 616 and a median age of 42.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Island, KY?
8.2% of residents in Island 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 Island?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Island, KY: median home value is $72,100 (71% below national), median rent is $916/month, and median household income is $48,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Island?
The poverty rate in Island, KY is 11.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Island, KY?
Island's population is 0.3% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.8% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.