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Somerset, KY

Frequently asked questions

Somerset, KY

Somerset is a home rule-class city in Pulaski County, Kentucky, United States. The city population was 11,924 according to the 2020 census. It is the seat of Pulaski County.

The city is located at the eastern end of Kentucky's Mississippian Plateau (or Pennyroyal Plateau); however, the micropolitan area extends eastward into the Appalachian Plateau (or Eastern Kentucky Coalfield), and northward to Kentucky's Outer Bluegrass region. Thus, the area shows variations in landforms and scenery. Nearby Lake Cumberland is one of the largest man-made lakes in the world (101 miles in length, with an average depth of 85 feet (26 m) and a normal pool containing more than 2 trillion gallons of water). Somerset is also near Cumberland Falls and the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area; its tourism industries are, in part, due to its scenic and varied landscape. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 11.3 square miles (29 km²), of which 11.3 square miles (29 km²) is land and 0.09% is water.

Somerset was first settled in 1798 by Thomas Hansford and received its name from Somerset County, New Jersey, where some of the early settlers had formerly lived. Somerset became the Pulaski County seat in 1801 and was incorporated as a city in 1887. A Civil War battle was fought in January 1862 at Mill Springs (now "Nancy") about 8 miles (13 km) west of Somerset, and a museum is at the site. A smaller battle was fought nearby at Dutton's Hill in 1863. In 1875 tracks for the Southern Railway were completed and Somerset saw a population growth and an increase in industry. In the late 1930s and early 1940s, library services were provided by the pack horse library. The completion of Lake Cumberland in 1950 transformed Somerset from a sleepy rural community into a recreation center.

The Center for Rural Development in Somerset was established in 1996. It is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization that describes its mission as follows: "to provide leadership that stimulates innovative and sustainable economic development solutions and a better way of life for the citizens we serve." The center's programs and services focus on public safety, arts & culture, leadership, and technology.

Somerset focuses on health and wellness. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Somerset 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 Planet Fitness, Somerset Seniors Fitness Classes, and A Sweat Studio. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Somerset, such as the Rockcastle Narrows Trail and Bear Creek Falls. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Somerset, KY are SomerSplash Waterpark, The Center For Rural Development, SomerSport Park.

Population: 12,389 (2024). ZIP codes: 42501 to 42503. Area code: 606. Elevation: 860 ft. Area: 11.3 square miles (29 km²).

FAQs

Is Somerset, KY a good place to live?

Living in Somerset offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents rent their homes. Many families and retirees live in Somerset and residents tend to be conservative. The public schools in Somerset are highly rated.

What are some interesting facts about Somerset, KY?

Somerset became the Pulaski County seat in 1801 and was incorporated as a city in 1887. A Civil War battle was fought in January 1862 at Mill Springs (now "Nancy") about 8 miles (13 km) west of Somerset, and a museum is at the site. A smaller battle was fought nearby at Dutton's Hill in 1863.

What is the race population in Somerset, KY?

Somerset, KY is home to a population of 12k people, of which 96.1% are citizens. As of 2022, 4.42% of Somerset, KY residents were born outside of the country (530 people). In 2022, there were 16.7 times more White (non-Hispanic) residents (10.4k people) in Somerset, KY than any other race or ethnicity. There were 622 White (Hispanic) and 437 Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) residents, the second and third most common ethnic groups.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Somerset

Somerset Parks and Recreation Department

Planet Fitness

Somerset Seniors Fitness Classes 

A Sweat Studio

Rockcastle Narrows Trail 

Bear Creek Falls

SomerSplash Waterpark

The Center For Rural Development

SomerSport Park

Niche

Data USA

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