It was formed from portions of Lawrence, Pike, Franklin, Copiah, and Amite counties.

[4] As of the 2020 United States census, there were 34,907 people, 12,699 households, and 9,054 families residing in the county.

As of the United States Census of 2000,[12] (which precedes the large changes and increases reflected in the figures, resulting from the substantial annexations and tripling of the size of the City of Brookhaven, the county seat, from late 2007, which would be reflected in the newer United States Census of 2010)—there were 33,166 people, 12,538 households, and 9,190 families residing in the county.

The offices of president and vice-president on the county supervisors rotate annually.

The telecommunications company MCI Worldcom was located in Lincoln County.

Its chief executive officer (CEO) and founder Bernard Ebbers resided near Brookhaven prior to his conviction; he was sentenced to prison.

These include Loyd Star hornets, Bogue Chitto bobcats, West Lincoln bears and the Enterprise yellowjackets.