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Fort Thomas, KY

Frequently asked questions

Fort Thomas, KY

Fort Thomas is a home rule-class city in Campbell County, Kentucky, United States, on the southern bank of the Ohio River and the site of an 1890 US Army post. The population was 17,483 at the 2020 census, making it the largest city in Campbell County. It is part of the Cincinnati – Northern Kentucky metropolitan area. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 6.4 square miles (17 km²), of which, 5.7 square miles (15 km²) of it is land and 0.8 square miles (2.1 km²) of it (11.82%) is water.

Evidence suggests that on or around 1749, before settlement by Europeans, a large battle occurred between a band of Cherokee Native Americans and a victorious Miami tribe and Shawnee tribe Native Americans in what is now the city of Fort Thomas. As many as 600 graves of slain warriors have been unearthed by archeologists there.

In 1887, a site was needed to house a United States Army post to replace Newport Barracks located in the adjoining city of Newport, Kentucky. Built in 1803, Newport Barracks replaced the smaller Fort Washington, located across the Ohio River in Cincinnati, Ohio. That army post was located at the junction of the Licking and Ohio Rivers, but it was prone to flooding and flooded numerous times during the early 1880s. A new, less flood-prone location was sought. General Philip Sheridan personally selected 11 acres (4.5 ha) of the city and dubbed the area the Highlands, predicting it to become the "West Point of the West." The new post was named Fort Thomas in honor of General George Henry Thomas.

As of the census of 2010, there were 16,325 people, 6,787 households, and 4,219 families residing in the city. The population density was 2,909.8 inhabitants per square mile (1,123.5/km²). There were 7,028 housing units at an average density of 1,239.8 per square mile (478.7/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 96.1% White, 1.3% African American, 0.1% Native American, 0.9% Asian, less than 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.4% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

Fort Thomas emphasizes health and wellness. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Fort Thomas Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Soto Community Fitness, Barre Classes, and Inner Vision Pilates. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Fort Thomas, such as Rossford Park and Riggs Memorial Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

The top sites in Fort Thomas, KY are Tower Park, Highland Hills Park, and Newport Aquarium.

Population: 17,483 (2020). Area code: 859. Elevation: 781 ft (238 m). ZIP Code: 41075. Area: 6.4 square miles (17 km²).

FAQs

What is Fort Thomas, KY famous for?

Known as the "city of beautiful homes," Fort Thomas boasts more than 160 residences that are at least 100 years old. In the early 1900s, mineral water springs were discovered in the area, and entrepreneurs turned much of the city into a health resort. The fort itself was constructed between 1890 and 1901, serving as a mobilization point during the Spanish-American War, and then as a military hospital. A landmark 102-foot-tall stone water tower memorializes those who lost their lives in that war.

Is Fort Thomas, KY a good place to live?

Fort Thomas is in Campbell County and is one of the best places to live in Kentucky. Living in Fort Thomas offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Fort Thomas, there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Many families and young professionals live in Fort Thomas and residents tend to be conservative.

What is the poverty rate in Fort Thomas, KY?

In 2022, the median household income of Fort Thomas households was $95,391. Fort Thomas households made slightly more than Claryville households ($95,127) and Fox Chase households ($95,375). However, 3.6% of Fort Thomas families live in poverty.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Fort Thomas

Fort Thomas Parks and Recreation Department 

Soto Community Fitness

Barre Classes 

Inner Vision Pilates

Rossford Park 

Riggs Memorial Park

Tower Park

Highland Hills Park

Newport Aquarium

Achp

Niche

Kentucky Demographics

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