Population & Demographics: Understanding Our Diverse Community
A Growing Community with Deep Roots
As you consider making Hazard your medical practice home, you'll be joining a community of 5,263 residents that represents the authentic character of Appalachian America. With nearly 20% growth between 2010 and 2020, you'll find yourself in a community that people are actively choosing as their home. The median age of 42.5 years reflects a mature, stable population that values long-term relationships with their healthcare providers—creating the foundation for a deeply satisfying medical practice.
Your practice will serve not just Hazard itself, but the broader Perry County region of 28,473 residents, extending your impact across the Cumberland Plateau. In this environment, you'll find yourself becoming an integral part of a community where your professional contributions are recognized, valued, and remembered. With 54% of adults married and 41% raising children under 18, the family-oriented culture supports long-term healthcare relationships that are both professionally and personally fulfilling.
- Population of 5,263 in Hazard, serving a broader Perry County region of 28,473 residents
- Median age of 42.5 years indicating a stable, mature community
- Nearly 20% growth between 2010–2020 showing renewed vitality
- 54% of adults married with 41% raising children under 18
Economic Stability and Professional Opportunities
Hazard offers a strong economic foundation combining traditional industry with modern diversification. With a median household income of $68,582—19% above the Kentucky average—and an average household income of $133,516, your patients will generally have the resources to pursue quality healthcare while upholding the values that define this community.
Your spouse will also find professional opportunities through major employers like Appalachian Regional Healthcare (ARH), which employs over 6,700 people. Other institutions, like Hazard Community and Technical College, government services, and local businesses, contribute to an educated and engaged population that values professional excellence and access to care.
- $68,582 median household income, 19% higher than the state average
- $133,516 average household income indicating broad economic strength
- 6,700+ employees in the ARH system with $474 million in payroll
- 1,758 degrees awarded in 2023 by Hazard Community and Technical College
Cultural Character and Community Values
Hazard’s demographic makeup reflects its Appalachian heritage, with 89.2% identifying as White, primarily of English and Scotch-Irish descent. Yet, the town is also evolving, with 2.6% Asian residents, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, and 4.9% identifying as two or more races.
These numbers tell only part of the story. What defines Hazard is a shared set of values: hard work, family, mutual support, and commitment to place. This foundation of trust and connection creates the conditions for effective, long-lasting doctor-patient relationships.
- English and Scotch-Irish heritage shapes community identity
- 2.6% Asian and 2.7% Hispanic or Latino residents reflect growing diversity
- 1,867 degrees awarded annually show strong educational commitment
- 99.7% U.S. citizenship reflects community stability and deep roots
Healthcare Needs and Professional Satisfaction
The age spread of your future patient base creates the ideal mix of clinical variety and long-term impact: 23.6% under 18, 44.8% aged 35–64, and 14% over 64. You'll provide family care, chronic disease management, and geriatric care in a manageable and sustainable way.
With an average of 878 patients per primary care physician, you'll enjoy healthy volumes without burnout. The low foreign-born population (2.02%) and 99.7% English fluency support clear communication and trust-based care that leads to better outcomes and greater professional satisfaction.
- Full-spectrum care: pediatric, adult, and geriatric needs met locally
- 878 patients per PCP annually ensures sustainable practice load
- 99.7% English fluency and low language barrier for better patient education
- High patient trust and long-term loyalty drive satisfaction and outcomes
Community Engagement and Professional Integration
In Hazard, your role as a physician will extend naturally into the community. Whether coaching youth sports, attending festivals, or sitting on school boards, you’ll form real connections with the people you serve. This is medicine woven into everyday life.
Events like the Black Gold Festival offer cultural celebration and meaningful interaction, while civic groups like Rotary, Lions Club, and the Chamber of Commerce provide leadership and service opportunities that help you shape the health—and spirit—of the region.
- Black Gold Festival—Kentucky’s second-largest celebration
- Active civic organizations for networking and community involvement
- Professional integration through school boards, youth sports, and local initiatives
- Community health leadership opportunities expand your impact
