Melbourne, KY
Population 539 · Kentucky
About Melbourne, KY
Melbourne is a small community located in Kentucky with a population of 539 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,458 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 57.2 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 Melbourne features a median home value of $160,400, which is 35% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Melbourne in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $638, 45% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 171 total housing units, 96% are owner-occupied (156 units) and 4% are renter-occupied (7 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Melbourne shows an unemployment rate of 6.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 22.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Melbourne have an average one-way commute time of 21.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.9% of Melbourne residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 4.1% 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 Melbourne, KY
Compared to national averages, Melbourne has a median household income of $66,458 (12% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $160,400, which is 35% below the national median. Monthly rent at $638 is 45% below the US average of $1,163. Within Kentucky, Melbourne's income is 0% above the state average of $66,273, and home values are 12% below the state median of $182,504.
Why Live in Melbourne, KY?
Melbourne offers affordable housing with a median home value of $160,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $638/month, and short commute times averaging just 21.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,458) that falls below the national average. However, Melbourne’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Melbourne has a population of 539 with a median age of 57.2 years. Compare Melbourne with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Kentucky.
Similar Cities Near Melbourne
Cities in Kentucky with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caneyville | 541 | $25,938 | $112,500 | Compare |
| Sandy Hook | 542 | $0 | $98,500 | Compare |
| Buffalo | 533 | $30,660 | $215,500 | Compare |
| Maceo | 533 | $0 | $107,500 | Compare |
| Petersburg | 532 | $123,669 | $219,300 | Compare |
| Brownsboro Farm | 549 | $151,250 | $373,100 | Compare |
| McDowell | 549 | $35,576 | $73,600 | Compare |
| River Bluff | 529 | $139,375 | $415,800 | 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 Melbourne With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Melbourne
What is the population of Melbourne, KY?
The population of Melbourne, KY is 539 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 Melbourne?
The median household income in Melbourne, KY is $66,458 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Melbourne?
The median home value in Melbourne, KY is $160,400, which is 35% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Melbourne?
The median monthly rent in Melbourne, KY is $638, which is 45% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Melbourne?
The unemployment rate in Melbourne, KY is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Melbourne, KY a good place to live?
Melbourne offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 539 and a median age of 57.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Melbourne, KY?
32.9% of residents in Melbourne 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 Melbourne?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Melbourne, KY: median home value is $160,400 (35% below national), median rent is $638/month, and median household income is $66,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Melbourne?
The poverty rate in Melbourne, KY is 22.6%, 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 Melbourne, KY?
Melbourne's population is 0.0% White, 4.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.