Gallatin County
countyGallatin County, Kentucky, is located in the northern part of the state, nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, and is part of the Cincinnati-Middletown metropolitan area. As of 2024, the estimated population is around 8,805. Known for its scenic waterways, picturesque country roads, and friendly communities, Gallatin County offers a blend of rural charm and accessibility to larger urban centers. Historically an agricultural area, Gallatin County's economy has diversified over time. Key industries include manufacturing, retail trade, and transportation. While agriculture remains a part of the economy, many residents commute to nearby counties for employment. The county is served by major transportation routes, including I-71, facilitating regional connectivity. Gallatin County is known for its historical preservation and river town character. The county courthouse in Warsaw is the oldest in continuous use in Kentucky. With outdoor recreational opportunities along the Ohio River and attractions like the Kentucky Speedway, Gallatin County offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and entertainment.
Gallatin County, Kentucky
- Classification
- County
- FIPS Code
- 21077
- Country
- United States
- County
- Gallatin County
- Region
- Northern Kentucky/Outer Bluegrass
- Total Area
- 105 sq mi
- Land Area
- 101 sq mi
- Water Area
- 3.5 sq mi
- Latitude
- 38.76
- Longitude
- -84.86
- Climate
- Located in a climatic transition zone with both humid subtropical and humid continental influences
- Notable Features
- Ohio River · Fertile floodplains
- Neighboring Areas
- Boone County, KY · Carroll County, KY · Grant County, KY · Owen County, KY · Switzerland County, IN
- Population (2020)
- 8,690
- Est. Population (2024)
- 8,805
- Median Age
- 39.7
- Median Income
- $62,247
- Poverty Rate
- 14.4%
- Owner-Occupied
- 73.4%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- 88.9% White (Non-Hispanic), 3.02% Other (Hispanic), 2.72% Black or African American (Non-Hispanic)
- Municipal Services
- Animal Shelter · Dispatch Center · Emergency Medical Service · Emergency & Waste · Fire Department · Parks & Recreation
- Unemployment Rate
- 3.7% (Dec 2025)
- Economic Profile
- Proximity to Cincinnati and Louisville · Growing community
- Employment Sectors
- Manufacturing · Retail Trade · Transportation & Warehousing
- Major Employers
- Nucor Steel · SteelTech
- School Districts
- Gallatin County Schools
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Hartig Park and Wildlife Reserve · Gallatin County Park & Fair Grounds · Ohio River
- Parks & Trails
- Hartig Park hiking trails · Gallatin County Park walking trails
- Founded
- 1798
- Named After
- Albert Gallatin, Secretary of the Treasury under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison
- Historical Significance
- Historically significant for its river trade and strategic location along the Ohio River
- Key Events
- County formed from Franklin and Shelby counties · Parts of county used to create Owen, Trimble, and Carroll counties · Civil War skirmishes · Gallatin County Race Riot (1866)