What to know when moving to Hopkinsville, KY
Hopkinsville at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 44.4% of residents are renters and the median household income is $49,872.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $866, providing affordable housing options.
- The Reality Check:
- About 19.7% of the population lives below the poverty line.
- Commute:
- 0% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 117 rainy days a year, so investing in good rain gear is wise.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Hopkinsville has a population of approximately 41,510, with a median household income of $49,872. The community has a relatively low education level, with only 21.2% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. With 44.4% of residents renting their homes, affordability is a key factor for many. The area experiences 117 rainy days annually, which might influence outdoor activities.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for a high percentage of public transit use, as only 0% of residents rely on it to commute.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $866, while the median owner-occupied home value is $147,400.
- The community's poverty rate stands at 19.7%, indicating economic challenges for some residents.
- With 44.4% of residents renting, the housing market offers options for both renters and owners.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Kentucky, the crime rates reveal some trends worth noting. The state's annual property crime rate is 1,212 per 100,000 residents, which is 21.6% lower than the national average of 1,546.9. Meanwhile, the violent crime rate stands at 198.5 per 100,000, also significantly lower than the national average of 325.3, showing a 39% reduction.
- Violent crime: 198.5 per 100k vs. national average of 325.3, with an 11% decrease since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,212 per 100k vs. national average of 1,546.9, with a 19.5% decrease since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have declined by 63.8% since 2022, now at 2.7 per 100,000.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Kentucky).
Schools & Higher Ed
Hopkinsville has access to educational opportunities with two local institutions.
- Postsecondary institutions: 2
- With College Scorecard data: 2
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations, NCES, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Christian County receives about 57.3 inches of precipitation annually, spread across 117 rainy days. The climate features minimal snowfall, averaging only 0.6 inches a year.
- Jefferson Davis State Historic Site - 4.5 stars (952 reviews)
- Ruff Park - 4.3 stars (171 reviews)
- Little River Park - 4.3 stars (160 reviews)
- Hopkinsville Dog Park - 4.5 stars (159 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The local economy in Christian County shows a labor force of approximately 24,616, with an unemployment rate of 4.3% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 4.3% (December 2025)
- Employed: 23,566
- Labor force: 24,616
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.