Kentucky is known for its scenic beauty, horse racing, bourbon and bluegrass music and southern hospitality. Many Kentucky cities offer unique experiences that combine the amenities of big cities like Louisville’s, with the charm of the small town they live in. But is Kentucky a good place to live? With a rich history leading up to Frontier Days, Kentucky has a vibrant culture that is deeply rooted in people, food, music and traditions. Whether you’re looking for a home for sale in Lexington, an Owensboro apartment, or want to learn more about the state, there are ten pros and cons to living in Kentucky.
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Quick Facts About Kentucky
Is Kentucky a good place to live?
Kentucky offers a mix of Southern charm, natural beauty and affordable prices that attract newcomers in search of a more relaxed lifestyle. This appeal is easy as it costs money to live well below the national average and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking the Red River Gorge or boating at Lake Cumberland. While major cities in the state like Lexington and Louisville offer a blend of modern amenities and historic character, the small towns maintain their close, welcoming atmosphere. However, the job market can be a hit or miss depending on the industry, and rural areas of the state may lack the conveniences you can find in the larger metros. Overall, if you’re looking for a slower pace, an affordable living, and a community-driven atmosphere, Kentucky might just be the place to call home.
1. Pro: Kentucky has affordable living costs statewide
One of the biggest draws in life in Kentucky is the affordable cost of living. Home prices are significantly lower than the national average, whether you are considering buying a home or renting an apartment. The state’s median sales price is just $263,400, well below the national median $430,000. In Louisville, two-bedroom apartments average $1,574, which is significantly less than other major US metros, so utility and transportation costs are also reasonable, contributing to the state’s overall low cost. For attractive cities with even lower cost of living, check out towns like Bardstown and Frankfort.
2. CON: Limited public transport in rural areas of the state
Kentucky’s public transport network is primarily concentrated in large cities such as Louisville and Lexington, with rural areas where there are few options other than personal vehicles. For those living in small towns or more remote parts of the state, the lack of reliable transport can challenge commuting, running errands, or accessing essential services. If you are moving to a rural area, having a car is essentially a necessity, and long drives between destinations can increase gas costs quickly.
3. Pro: The state is located in the central location
Centrally located, Kentucky is an easy-to-access destination for travelers and a convenient option for those considering moving to Kentucky. The state is adjacent to seven other states, including Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Missouri and Illinois, making it a strategic stop for national travel. Kentucky’s robust transportation infrastructure includes a network of several major highways and regional airports, providing easy entry and exit from the state. Whether you’re commuting or exploring, travelling to Kentucky offers seamless connectivity to your neighborhood and beyond.
4. CON: We need to be aware of natural disasters in Kentucky
Kentucky is prone to a variety of natural disasters, including floods, tornadoes and earthquakes. The state is located in an area known as Hoosier Alley, an extension of tornado alleys that are prone to severe storms and tornadoes, especially in the months of spring and early summer. Floods are also common in the state, particularly along the Ohio River and its tributaries. If you live in the state, you will want to create and prepare an emergency evacuation plan for your home.
5. Pro: Grab your hat and get ready for the Kentucky sports scene
Bluegrass State is particularly well known for its love for basketball, and the University of Kentucky men’s basketball team is one of the most successful programs in NCAA history. The state also hosts several major horse racing events, including the Kentucky Derby, one of the most prestigious horse racing in the world. And if you love the motorsport scene, you’re in the right place. Kentucky Speedway hosts a variety of NASCAR events for all fans.
6. CON: Entertainment options are lacking in some parts of the state
Cities like Louisville and Lexington offer plenty of restaurants, bars and music venues, but entertainment options may be more restricted in small towns and rural areas. Outside of a big city, there may not be many cinemas, concert venues and nightlife spots. But if you prefer a quieter lifestyle or enjoy spending time outdoors, the natural beauty of Kentucky offers plenty of opportunities for weekend adventures, from hiking to lake activities.
7. Pro: Kentucky has a rich cultural history
Kentucky has a rich cultural history reflected in its architecture, music, art and cuisine. The state played a key role in the American frontier settlement, with historic sites such as the Perryville Battlefield State’s historic site and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail providing a glimpse into the state’s early days.
Kentucky is also known for its deep ties between bluegrass and country. The state has given birth to several well-known musicians, including Loretta Lynn, Ricky Scuggs and Bill Monroe, known as the “father of bluegrass music.”
8. CON: A troublesome bug appears in the summer
In the summer, Kentucky is quite humid and attracts nasty insects. Mosquitoes are common throughout the state and can be annoying outdoors, especially in wooded and humid areas. Mites are common in some areas, allowing them to carry disease and taking precautions outdoors is essential.
Stingy insects such as hornets, hornets, and honeybees can also be problematic, especially in late summer and early autumn. These bugs can be annoying, but ways to protect yourself include wearing long sleeve clothing, using insect repellents and avoiding standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
9. Pro: Easy to discover breathtaking scenery
If you’re looking for a reason to move to Kentucky, you’ll quickly recognize its beauty. Kentucky has a wealth of beautiful scenery and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The state has rolling hills, lush woods, sparkling lakes and winding rivers that offer picturesque backgrounds.
Additionally, the state boasts several natural landmarks, including the iconic Mammoth Caves National Park, the world’s longest known cave system, and Red River Valley, known for its sandstone cliffs and natural arches. Kentucky is also famous for its horse farms, and the rolling bluegrass countryside surrounding them is often referred to as the “horses capital of the world.”
10. CON: I’ll bundle it up for the harsh winter
Kentucky has experienced harsh winters, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the state, due to its location in the Appalachian region. Winter temperatures are regularly below freezing and snowfall is expected. Some parts of the state experience significant snowfall each year. Additionally, the state is prone to ice storms, which can lead to power outages and dangerous road conditions. It is important for people living in Kentucky to take appropriate precautions during the winter, such as preparing their homes for the winter.
