When most people think of Kentucky, they think horses, bourbon, and basketball. While they definitely play a big part in the culture and economy of Kentucky, the Bluegrass State has even more. Economically, geographically, and culturally, Kentucky is a diverse state with a lot to offer. Whether you want to live in a quiet mountain town or a bustling big city, you can easily find a place to call "My Old Kentucky Home."
Kentucky is home to nearly 4.4 million people and is ranked 26th in overall population. Kentucky is mainly bordered by Tennessee, West Virginia, Ohio, and Indiana and shares small areas of border with Virginia, Illinois, and Missouri. Frankfort is the state capital and is located between Louisville and Lexington, the state's two biggest cities. Louisville lays on the Ohio River on the Indiana border and is the largest metropolitan center with approximately 760,000 people. Lexington, located in the north-central region, is home to over 500,000 people in the city and surrounding area.
Kentucky's economy is on the upswing, and the major industries in the state include healthcare, education, manufacturing, and agriculture. The University of Kentucky and University of Louisville employ thousands of people. Agriculture is found more in the central and western part of the state, while coal mining is the notable industry in the southeastern region. Manufacturing is common throughout, with the auto industry making a sizable economic impact.
In addition to Kentucky's improving economy and good quality of life, the state is incredibly affordable. The cost of living index is significantly lower than the national average. Housing, both rental and home prices are much cheaper than the rest of the country, while healthcare and transportation are consistent with the U.S. average.
If you are looking for recreation, there are plenty of ways to stay busy in Kentucky. Sports fans will appreciate the close proximity to professional teams, and college sports are incredibly popular. University of Kentucky and University of Louisville both have nationally-recognized basketball programs and incredibly devoted fans. If you prefer to play rather than watch, there are plenty of state parks for camping, hiking, kayaking, and mountain climbing.
The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory in Louisville, the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, and the Jim Beam Distillery in Clermont are all great attractions to visit. If you like history, Abraham Lincoln's Birthplace in Hodgenville, the National Underground Railroad Museum in Maysville, and the Perryville Battlefield are great. Art museums and performing art centers are throughout Kentucky, so check out the Kentucky Folk Art Center in Morehead, the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro, or the Paramount Arts Center in Ashland!
The climate reflects the diverse geography, but the entire state does experience four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with the average winter temperature around 40 degrees, but there are typically only a few incidences of accumulating snow per season. Summers are hot and humid with the average temperature around 85 to 90 degrees, with plentiful sunshine and occasional showers and thunderstorms. The spring and fall are favorites for the residents with mild temperatures, plentiful sunshine, and gorgeous scenery.
If you are moving to Kentucky, we can help you find the best places to live in Kentucky. Customize your search based on population, amenities, or region, and you can filter results based on budget, crime rates, or nearby schools. No matter what your specifications, with our help, you can find the best places in Kentucky to live.