Goats
Kentucky's Goat Industry
As of January 1, 2025, there were 60,000 head of goats, up 1,000 head from January 2024. Milk goats were at 5,800 head, up 500 head from the previous year's estimate. Goats, much like cattle, are primarily used for either meat or milking, depending on the breed.
In 2024, Kentucky ranks 6th in the nation for meat goat production (59,000 head) and 23rd in milk goat production (5,300 head). This is a 5.4% increase from the previous year. Although we don’t think about eating goat cheese often, many popular cheeses can be made from goat milk, including feta, mozzarella, and ricotta.
There are over 4,000 goat producing farms in Kentucky as of 2024, adding $3.5 million in revenue to the state’s total agricultural receipts.
Top goat counties in Kentucky (per 2017 Census):
Warren
Crittenden
Barren
Clinton
Nelson
Source: National Agriculture Statistics Service and Economic Research Commission
Related Articles & Web Sites
Meat or Milk? Why not both?
Goats are a versatile and valuable commodity to Kentucky. When you have questions about the Kentucky goat industry, reach out to the Kentucky Sheep & Goat Development Office!
