Welcome to Barren County, KY

With its unique combination of small-town charm, engaging history, quirky attractions and outdoor adventure Barren County offers the kind of entertaining destinations that leave visitors with a sense of satisfaction - and residents a sense of pride.  Our community moves at a comfortable pace, its the kind of place where you can spend your time walking the historic districts and visit locally owned shops, or just sit on a bench and watch the people around you.  Scenic drives on back roads lead to fascinating sights, from Dinosaur World to one-of-a-kind shops or the world's largest known cave system.  But don't just take our word for - Let's discover why "Life is Better in the Barrens".

Working in Barren County​

Barren County has a very diverse economy which offers employment opportunities in just about everything.  The largest employment sector in Barren County is Retail Trade, the next largest is Health Care, followed by Manufacturing. Barren Counties largest employers are TJ Samson Regional Health, the Barren County School System, Walmart, Akebono, Nemak, NCH Healthcare and Barren River Resort.  There are many resources available to assist in locating work in Barren County, for more information on job openings and resources visit www.southcentralworkforce.com.

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Living in Barren County

Housing in Barren County
Barren County offers a diverse range of housing options to fit any budget or lifestyle, from multi-tenant apartment complexes and duplexes to charming neighborhoods, scenic lakeside properties, and stately homes like the iconic Maplewood Estate.
Most residential areas in Glasgow feature sidewalks, promoting easy walkability and biking access to local amenities, including restaurants, shops, and parks.
On average:

• Monthly home expenses are 38% lower than the national average.
• Rent costs are 15.6% lower than the Kentucky average.
• The median home list price in 2024 was $259,000.

Explore our Business Directory to connect with one of our trusted real estate agents who can help you find your dream home in Barren County.
Health Care in Barren County
Health and wellness are at the heart of our community, providing residents with a higher quality of life.

• TJ Samson Hospital: Fully accredited with 70 physicians, 250+ associates, and 510 nurses, offering 14 types of care and 19 specialties.
• Coverage: 92% of Barren County residents are covered by health insurance, ensuring accessible healthcare for all.
• Senior Care: Multiple assisted living facilities, hospice care, and long-term care facilities provide essential support for our elderly and those with special needs.
• Wellness Services: From spa retreats and state-of-the-art fitness centers to community health events, residents enjoy resources that promote active and healthy lifestyles.

Barren County is dedicated to making healthy living an easy choice for everyone.
Entertainment in Barren County
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a lover of live entertainment, or a fan of great food and shopping, Barren County offers something for everyone.

•  Yancey’s Gastropub & Brewery: Enjoy live music, rooftop dining, and locally brewed beer in a lively setting.
• Concerts in the Park: Summertime events fill the downtown square and Beaver Trail Park with music and fun.
• The Grove: Experience outdoor seating, fireside chats, and even treehouse dining.
• The Plaza Theater: Year-round concerts, live productions, and local movie screenings await.
• Ralphie’s Fun Center: Perfect for families with bowling, mini-golf, roller skating, and laser tag.
• Dining Delights: With 75 local restaurants, including favorites like The Ritter House, Esters Farm Cafe, and Big Man BBQ, there's a flavor for every palate.
• Parks and Recreation: Enjoy 10 parks, baseball, soccer, tennis, volleyball, and a public swimming pool.
• Mammoth Cave National Park: Explore the world’s longest cave system, attracting 2 million visitors annually.

Barren County is your destination for endless fun and unforgettable experiences!
Transportation in Barren County
Getting around Barren County is efficient, convenient, and well-connected, whether by road, air, or rideshare services.

• Commute Time: The average commute is just 20 minutes, making travel quick and stress-free.
• Regional Hub: As an economic center, Barren County welcomes over 7,600 workers daily from 37 surrounding counties.
• Rideshare Services: Uber and Lyft are available 24/7 in Glasgow, offering flexible transportation options.
• Local Services: Dave's Transportation, Shockley Transportation, and Chariots-Class Limo Service provide reliable transport for appointments, airport trips, and daily commutes.
• Air Travel: Centrally located between Louisville and Nashville International Airports, residents enjoy direct flights to destinations worldwide.
• Glasgow Airport: Home to 35 aircraft, the airport serves recreational, industrial, and medical transport needs.

With seamless connections and efficient transit options, Barren County keeps you moving wherever life takes you!
Environment in Barren County
Barren County is committed to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and maintaining a high quality of life for all residents.

• Sustainable Glasgow: Focused on education, infrastructure, and policy initiatives to inspire systemic change and support a sustainable economy.
• Air Quality: Recognized as an attainment community, Barren County enjoys clean air with minimal pollution risks.
• Award-Winning Water Treatment: The GWC Treatment Plant has been honored with the Area-wide Optimization Program Champion Award by the KY Energy & Environment Cabinet for exceptional water treatment performance over 10 consecutive years.
• Zoning Regulations: Thoughtful policies protect recreational, religious, and educational spaces, ensuring balanced and attractive residential areas.

In Barren County, sustainability isn’t just a goal—it’s a way of life.
Safety in Barren County
Safety is the cornerstone of a thriving community, and Barren County is dedicated to ensuring a secure environment for residents, workers, and visitors alike.

• Sheriff’s Office: With 18 officers and 2 detectives, the department is staffed by highly trained professionals committed to public safety.
• Drug Task Force Partnership: A collaborative effort between 5 departments works to combat drug-related issues and ensure community well-being.
• Fire Protection: The county is served by 8 volunteer fire departments and 1 paid department in Glasgow, staffed by 36 professional firefighters.
• Low Crime Rate: With a crime rate 1.2 times lower than the national average, Barren County remains a safe and welcoming community.

From proactive law enforcement to reliable emergency services, Barren County prioritizes safety to create a community where everyone can thrive.