| Statistic | Harlan | Kentucky | National |
| Population | 1,411 | 4,467,673 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,084 | 114 | 91 |
| Median age | 43.1 | 38.6 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 55% | 58% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 36% | 42% | 43% |
| Speak English | 98% | 95% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 0% | 3% | 13% |
Harlan demographics provide invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling them to plan, develop, and govern in ways that promote prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Harlan population is 1,411 and has a population density of 1,084 people per square mile, compared to the national average of 91. The median age of all residents is 43.1, 55% of people 15 years of age or older are married and 36% have kids under the age of 18. In Harlan, 47% of households have a median income that is below $25,000 and 4% of households report a median income above $150,000.
The Harlan racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown serves as a critical tool for understanding and addressing systemic inequities, promoting social justice and inclusion and building stronger, more resilient communities. The racial breakdown in Harlan is 91% White, 4.3% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian - 0% of the population identify as Hispanic or Latino. Of all households, 97.7% reported speaking English only, while 0.4% reported speaking Spanish only. A total of 2.3% of residents were considered foreign born.
Harlan has a population density that is well above-average, which plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. Harlan has a population density of 1,084 people per square mile, exceeding the national average of 91 and positions itself in a good spot to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Harlan to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating Harlan demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
Education Allocation: Education planning benefits significantly from Harlan demographic information, which helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends, and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources effectively and devising impactful educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among diverse demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to improve access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Ultimately, Harlan demographic data is essential in education for advancing equity, fostering student success, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.
Understanding Populations: By reporting and analyzing Harlan demographics, we can acquire valuable insights into the makeup and traits of populations, encompassing age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and various socio-economic factors. This comprehension is vital for tackling the varied needs, preferences, and obstacles encountered by different demographic groups within communities. Demographics serve a pivotal role in comprehending populations, guiding decision-making processes and advancing equity, inclusion and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The Harlan population data serves as a cornerstone for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also fostering the well-being and strength of communities.
| Race | Harlan | Kentucky | National |
| White | 91.00% | 87.48% | 73.35% |
| Black | 4.32% | 7.94% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 2.76% | 1.29% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.00% | 0.21% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.06% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 1.91% | 2.10% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.00% | 0.92% | 4.75% |
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