Laurel County, Kentucky

Located in southeastern Kentucky, Laurel County is where natural beauty and local history come together. London, the county seat, is known as the “Cycling Capital of Kentucky.”

The county has a population of around 62,000, with I-75 running right through it. The interstate passes directly through London, Kentucky, at the center of the county.

The county is also home to the Daniel Boone National Forest, which covers the western portion. Laurel County offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, with a little bit of history thrown in for good measure.

CategoryDetails
County NameLaurel County
County SeatLondon
EtymologyNamed after the mountain laurel, a shrub native to the area
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesLondon, East Bernstadt, Keavy, North Corbin, Lily
Interstates and HighwaysI-75, US-25, KY-80, KY-192
FIPS Code21-125
Total Area (Land and Water)444 sq mi (Land: 435 sq mi; Water: 9 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Jackson County (Northeast), Clay County (East), Knox County (Southeast), Whitley County (South), McCreary County (Southwest), Pulaski County (West), Rockcastle County (Northwest)
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
StateKentucky
Coordinates37.1244° N, 84.0840° W
Major LandmarksLevi Jackson Wilderness Road Park, Daniel Boone National Forest, Laurel River Lake
PopulationApproximately 63,000
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