Kentucky Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)

by countryaah · Published June 28, 2019 · Updated October 27, 2024

How many counties are there in Kentucky? As of 2024, there are a total of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Among them, Fayette County is the oldest one (established in 1780) while McCreary County is the youngest (established in 1912). With population of 760,026, Jefferson County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is Pike County (2,041 km²) and the smallest is Gallatin County (256 km²).

Largest Counties in Kentucky

1. Pike County

County Seat: Pikeville

Area: 789 square miles
Population: Approximately 58,669 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 606
Latitude: 37.4794° N
Longitude: 82.5186° W

Location and History

Pike County is the largest county by area in Kentucky, located in the eastern part of the state, bordering West Virginia. Established in 1821, the county was named after General Zebulon Pike, a soldier and explorer known for discovering Pike’s Peak in Colorado. Pikeville, the county seat, has a rich history tied to coal mining, which has been the economic backbone of the region for over a century. The county is also known for its mountainous terrain, being part of the Appalachian Mountains, and its role in the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, a violent dispute between two families in the late 19th century.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Pike County is accessible via U.S. Routes 23, 119, and 460, which connect the region to other parts of Kentucky and neighboring states. Notable landmarks include the Pikeville Cut-Through Project, one of the largest civil engineering projects in the western hemisphere, which rerouted a river and railroad to alleviate flooding in Pikeville. The county is also home to the Hatfield and McCoy Historic Sites, which attract visitors interested in the history of the feud. Additionally, the Breaks Interstate Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the South,” straddles the border between Kentucky and Virginia and offers stunning views, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

2. Christian County

County Seat: Hopkinsville

Area: 724 square miles
Population: Approximately 70,461 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 270, 364
Latitude: 36.8678° N
Longitude: 87.4895° W

Location and History

Christian County is located in southwestern Kentucky, bordering Tennessee. Established in 1797, the county was named after Colonel William Christian, a Revolutionary War soldier. Hopkinsville, the county seat, developed as a key agricultural center, particularly known for its tobacco production. The county’s economy has diversified over time, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, and military activities, particularly due to its proximity to Fort Campbell, a major U.S. Army installation that straddles the Kentucky-Tennessee border.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Christian County is intersected by major highways, including Interstate 24, which runs northeast-southwest, connecting the county to Nashville, Tennessee, and St. Louis, Missouri. U.S. Routes 41 and 68 also run through the county. Key landmarks include the Jefferson Davis State Historic Site, which commemorates the birthplace of Jefferson Davis, the President of the Confederate States of America. The Pennyroyal Area Museum in Hopkinsville offers exhibits on local history, including the region’s agricultural and military heritage. The county is also known for the annual Little Green Men Days Festival, celebrating the 1955 Kelly-Hopkinsville UFO incident, one of the most famous and well-documented UFO sightings in the United States.

3. Pulaski County

County Seat: Somerset

Area: 658 square miles
Population: Approximately 65,034 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 606
Latitude: 37.0920° N
Longitude: 84.6039° W

Location and History

Pulaski County is located in south-central Kentucky and was established in 1799. The county was named after Kazimierz Pułaski, a Polish nobleman and military commander who fought for the United States during the Revolutionary War. Somerset, the county seat, developed as a key commercial hub due to its location along the Cumberland River and its role in the Civil War. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture and manufacturing, with tourism playing an increasingly important role due to the presence of Lake Cumberland, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Pulaski County is served by U.S. Routes 27 and 80, as well as State Highway 90, which provide access to the region’s major cities and attractions. Notable landmarks include Lake Cumberland, which offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and camping. The Mill Springs Battlefield, a National Historic Landmark, commemorates a significant Union victory during the Civil War and features a museum and interpretive trails. The county is also home to the Somerset Community College, which serves as an educational and cultural center for the region. The annual Master Musicians Festival in Somerset attracts visitors with performances by nationally known artists and showcases local talent.

4. Hardin County

County Seat: Elizabethtown

Area: 630 square miles
Population: Approximately 110,702 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 270, 364
Latitude: 37.6937° N
Longitude: 85.8591° W

Location and History

Hardin County is located in central Kentucky, south of Louisville. Established in 1792, the county was named after Colonel John Hardin, an officer in the American Revolutionary War. Elizabethtown, the county seat, developed as a significant commercial and transportation hub due to its location along major roadways and railroads. The county’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and military activities, particularly due to the presence of Fort Knox, a major U.S. Army installation known for housing the United States Bullion Depository.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Hardin County is accessible via Interstate 65, which runs north-south through the county, connecting it to Louisville and Nashville. U.S. Routes 31W and 62 also run through the county. Key landmarks include the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in nearby Hodgenville, which commemorates the birthplace of the 16th U.S. president. The Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum in Elizabethtown features a collection of classic and antique automobiles. The county is also home to the annual Heartland Festival, which celebrates the region’s heritage with music, food, and cultural events. Fort Knox, located in the northern part of the county, is home to the General George Patton Museum of Leadership, which offers exhibits on military history and leadership.

5. Lincoln County

County Seat: Stanford

Area: 547 square miles
Population: Approximately 24,275 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 606
Latitude: 37.5202° N
Longitude: 84.6623° W

Location and History

Lincoln County is located in central Kentucky and is one of the state’s original three counties, established in 1780. The county was named after Benjamin Lincoln, a Revolutionary War general. Stanford, the county seat, is one of the oldest settlements in Kentucky, with a history dating back to the early frontier days. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with tobacco, corn, and livestock being the main products. Lincoln County is also known for its rolling hills and scenic countryside, which attract visitors interested in outdoor activities and rural tourism.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Lincoln County is served by U.S. Route 27, which runs north-south through the county, and State Highway 150, which provides access to nearby cities. Significant landmarks include the Lincoln County Courthouse in Stanford, one of the oldest courthouses still in use in Kentucky, and the William Whitley House State Historic Site, which preserves the home of one of Kentucky’s early pioneers. The county is also home to Cedar Creek Lake, a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The annual Lincoln County Fair in Stanford features agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, and entertainment, celebrating the county’s rural heritage.

6. Adair County

County Seat: Columbia

Area: 413 square miles
Population: Approximately 19,202 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 270, 364
Latitude: 37.1022° N
Longitude: 85.3061° W

Location and History

Adair County is located in south-central Kentucky and was established in 1801. The county was named after John Adair, a hero of the Revolutionary War and later governor of Kentucky. Columbia, the county seat, developed as a key trading post in the early 19th century and later became an important agricultural center. The county’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with tobacco, corn, and dairy farming being the primary products. Adair County is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring rolling hills, forests, and rivers.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Adair County is accessible via the Cumberland Parkway, a major east-west route that connects the county to Interstate 65. U.S. Route 127 and State Highway 55 also serve the region. Notable landmarks include the Historic Adair County Courthouse in Columbia, a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture that still serves as the center of county government. The county is also home to Green River Lake State Park, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. Lindsey Wilson College, a private liberal arts college in Columbia, plays a significant role in the county’s educational and cultural life. The annual Adair County Fair showcases the county’s agricultural achievements with livestock shows, competitions, and entertainment.

7. Madison County

County Seat: Richmond

Area: 443 square miles
Population: Approximately 92,701 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 859
Latitude: 37.7476° N
Longitude: 84.2946° W

Location and History

Madison County is located in central Kentucky, south of Lexington. Established in 1786, the county was named after James Madison, the fourth president of the United States. Richmond, the county seat, is known for its historical significance, particularly during the Civil War when it was the site of the Battle of Richmond, one of the most significant Confederate victories in the Western Theater. The county’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, and education playing significant roles, particularly due to the presence of Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) in Richmond.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Madison County is served by Interstate 75, which runs north-south through the county, connecting it to Lexington and Knoxville, Tennessee. U.S. Routes 25 and 421 also run through the county. Key landmarks include the Battle of Richmond Visitors Center, which offers exhibits and tours related to the Civil War battle that took place in the area. The EKU campus in Richmond is a major cultural and educational hub, hosting numerous events, performances, and exhibitions. The county is also home to Fort Boonesborough State Park, which preserves the site of one of Kentucky’s first settlements, established by Daniel Boone in 1775. The annual Berea Craft Festival in the nearby town of Berea celebrates the region’s rich tradition of arts and crafts.

8. Scott County

County Seat: Georgetown

Area: 285 square miles
Population: Approximately 57,004 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 502
Latitude: 38.2983° N
Longitude: 84.5915° W

Location and History

Scott County is located in central Kentucky, just north of Lexington. Established in 1792, the county was named after General Charles Scott, a hero of the American Revolutionary War and the fourth governor of Kentucky. Georgetown, the county seat, is known for its historic downtown and its role in the American Civil War, as well as being the home of Georgetown College, a private liberal arts college. The county’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, and education playing key roles, particularly due to the presence of the Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant, one of the largest employers in the region.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Scott County is accessible via Interstate 75, which runs north-south through the county, connecting it to Lexington and Cincinnati. U.S. Routes 25 and 460 also run through the county. Notable landmarks include the Ward Hall, a historic Greek Revival mansion in Georgetown, which is open to the public for tours. The Toyota Motor Manufacturing plant offers guided tours that showcase the automotive production process. The county is also home to the Kentucky Horse Park, located just south of Georgetown, which celebrates Kentucky’s horse heritage with museums, exhibitions, and horse shows. The annual Festival of the Horse in Georgetown celebrates the region’s equestrian culture with parades, concerts, and other events.

9. Jefferson County

County Seat: Louisville

Area: 398 square miles
Population: Approximately 782,969 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 502
Latitude: 38.2527° N
Longitude: 85.7585° W

Location and History

Jefferson County is located in north-central Kentucky, along the Ohio River. Established in 1780, the county was named after Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. Louisville, the county seat and the largest city in Kentucky, is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and its role as a major economic and transportation hub. The county’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism, particularly due to the Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse races in the world.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Jefferson County is intersected by several major highways, including Interstates 64, 65, and 71, which connect Louisville to other major cities in the region. U.S. Routes 31 and 60 also run through the county. Key landmarks include Churchill Downs, the historic racetrack that hosts the Kentucky Derby, and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, which showcases the history of the iconic baseball bat. The county is also home to the Muhammad Ali Center, which celebrates the life and legacy of the boxing legend, and the Louisville Waterfront Park, a popular destination for outdoor activities and events. The annual Kentucky Derby Festival, held in the weeks leading up to the Derby, features parades, concerts, and other festivities.

10. Warren County

County Seat: Bowling Green

Area: 546 square miles
Population: Approximately 134,554 (2020 census)
Area Codes: 270, 364
Latitude: 36.9685° N
Longitude: 86.4808° W

Location and History

Warren County is located in south-central Kentucky and was established in 1797. The county was named after General Joseph Warren, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. Bowling Green, the county seat, is known for its rich history, particularly during the Civil War when it served as the Confederate capital of Kentucky for a brief period. The county’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from manufacturing, education, healthcare, and tourism, particularly due to the presence of Western Kentucky University (WKU) and the National Corvette Museum.

Major Highways and Landmarks

Warren County is served by Interstate 65, which runs north-south through the county, connecting it to Nashville and Louisville. U.S. Routes 31W and 231 also run through the county. Key landmarks include the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, which celebrates America’s sports car with exhibits, events, and tours. The nearby Corvette Assembly Plant offers guided tours that showcase the production process of the iconic vehicle. The county is also home to the Lost River Cave, which offers underground boat tours and hiking trails. The annual Bowling Green International Festival celebrates the region’s cultural diversity with music, food, and entertainment from around the world.

List of All Counties in Kentucky Alphabetically

Below please see all Kentucky counties which are listed in alphabetical order.

Kentucky Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)

Largest Counties in Kentucky

1. Pike County

County Seat: Pikeville

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

2. Christian County

County Seat: Hopkinsville

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

3. Pulaski County

County Seat: Somerset

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

4. Hardin County

County Seat: Elizabethtown

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

5. Lincoln County

County Seat: Stanford

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

6. Adair County

County Seat: Columbia

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

7. Madison County

County Seat: Richmond

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

8. Scott County

County Seat: Georgetown

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

9. Jefferson County

County Seat: Louisville

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

10. Warren County

County Seat: Bowling Green

Location and History

Major Highways and Landmarks

List of All Counties in Kentucky Alphabetically

Map of Kentucky Counties

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