Perry County, Kentucky

Perry County Education, Geography, and History

Perry County is a county located in the state of Kentucky. Based on the 2010 census, the population was 28,712.  The county was founded in 1820. The county seat is Hazard. Both the county and county seat are named for Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, a naval hero in the War of 1812.

Etymology - Origin of Perry County Name

Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry (1785-1819), hero in the War of 1812.

Demographics:

County QuickFacts: CensusBureau Quick Facts

Perry County History

Perry county was formed in 1821. It is located in the Eastern Coal Field region of the state. In 2000 the county population was 29,390 in a land area of 342.15 square miles, an average of 85.9 people per square mile. The county seat is Hazard.

Geography: Land and Water

As reported by the Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 343 square miles (890 km²), of which 340 square miles (880 km²) is land and 2.9 square miles (7.5 km²) (0.9%) is water. The elevation in the county ranges from 700 to 2520 feet above sea level.

Perry county is located in east Kentucky. This county is located in a scenic mountain setting within the Appalachians that provides spectacular views. Lush green mountains, fish-filled streams make up Perry county and it is rich in natural resources.

Neighboring Counties

Bordering counties are as follows:

• Northeast: Knott County
• Southeast: Letcher County
• South: Harlan County
• Southwest: Leslie County
• West: Clay County
• Northwest: Owsley County; Breathitt County

Education

Public

The county has two school districts:

Perry County Schools
Hazard Independent Schools

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