Are you thinking about living in Kentucky? You’ve come to the right place. I ended up moving to Kentucky 10+ years ago and have learned to love my daily life in the Bluegrass State.
There’s a lot I (genuinely) love about living in Kentucky, but there’s a lot I still can’t wrap my mind around. I thought it would be fun to do a quick roundup of the honest pros and cons of living in Kentucky for anyone considering a similar move.
I’m not one for small talk, so let’s get to the good stuff!
Longtime readers know: The fun is in the comments below. Join the conversation and let other readers know what it’s like to live in Kentucky. Or heck, reach out if you merely have questions — locals are (always) happy to answer.
Best Cities to Live in Kentucky
There’s an area of Kentucky referred to as “The Golden Triangle” which includes Louisville, Lexington and Covington. These are the best cities in Kentucky for those that love city(ish) living. Outside of the Golden Triangle the state is pretty rural.
Louisville
- Population: 628,600
- Average salary: $62,000
- Median home price: $242K
Lexington
- Population: 322,000
- Average salary: $56,700
- Median home price: $284K
Bowling Green
- Population: 74,000
- Average salary: $42,000
- Median home price: $299K
First, the Pros of Moving to Kentucky
1. The Housing Market Is (Still) Affordable
As you may have surmised by the median home prices mentioned above, the housing market in Kentucky is still affordable. Many folks from larger cities end up moving to Kentucky to achieve their lifelong dream of owning a home (myself included).
The median home price in Kentucky clocks in at $205K across the board, which is (way) below the national average of $428K. Hell, homes are 50% cheaper!
If you’re moving to Kentucky but don’t plan to buy a home, I have good news on that front too. Average rent for a one bedroom in about $1,200 in Louisville and Lexington. As you can imagine, rent is cheaper outside of the cities.
Normally housing is the highest portion of any budget-consciences resident, but thankfully the cost of living in Kentucky doesn’t cause despair. Whether you’re buying or renting, you can expect things to be fairly affordable (compared to most other places in the country).
Bonus: Low Property Taxes
Going hand-in-hand with affordable home prices, the low property taxes are also worth mention. Clocking in at a mere 0.78%, Kentucky is one of the most affordable places to buy a home.
That property tax rate coupled with low home prices means the cost of living in Kentucky keeps getting better and better. If helpful to know, I currently pay $1,300 a year in property taxes (a welcome reprieve from my previous taxes when I lived in Connecticut — they were 1.73%).
All this to say, if you’re moving to Kentucky with the hopes buying a home, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Live here? Is #1 still true? Say so
2. Overall Low Cost of Living in Kentucky
I don’t mean to beat a dead horse (speaking of horses, Kentuckians love their horses) but I’m telling you — the cost of living in Kentucky is very affordable.
Apart from housing, everyday amenities are well below the national average. Think groceries, utilities, transportation, medical expenses and necessities like haircuts. All told, the cost of living in Kentucky is nearly 12% lower than the national average.
Live here? Is #2 still true? Say so
3. Moving to Kentucky Means A Minimal Tax Burden
Unlike most of the other states, Kentucky has a flat 4.5% state income tax that applies to all resident regardless of household income. You can make $50,000 a year or $5,000,000 per year and you’ll still be taxed at 4.5%.
This is a pretty unique setup considering most states have varying income taxes depending on income bracket. Other still don’t have income tax altogether, but if you happen to live in a state with income tax at all, living in Kentucky is one of the best (because it’s one of the lowest).
Live here? Is #3 still true? Say so
4. The Cuisine
The best way I know to describe the cuisine while living in Kentucky is this: It’s (damn) good, but not good for you. It’s closely aligned with traditional southern cuisine — think fried chicken, soft cornbread and beans. It’s delicious, make no mistake, but it’s hard to stay healthy on a diet of fried food and milkshakes.
Those that love eating their greens will find little respite while living in Kentucky. Fast food reigns supreme and eating out is quite common. At the very least, it’s delicious and easy to get.
Live here? Is #4 still true? Say so
5. Kentucky Bourbon, Baby!
Plan to host a lot of visitors after moving to Kentucky. At least that’s what happened to me, turns out everyone wants to tour a distillery, who knew? The state generates more than $9 billion in revenue from bourbon sales alone, and currently averages two bourbon barrels per resident. We don’t joke around when it comes to libations!
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a popular attraction. You can pop over to one of 18 distilleries to taste the best the state has to offer. If interested, my favorite distilleries tours to take out-of-town visitors to are: Copper & Kings, Rabbit Hole and the Wilderness Trail.
Live here? Is #5 still true? Say so
6. Plenty of Outdoor Recreation
One of the things that has surprised me most about living in Kentucky is the outdoor recreation. Prior to moving to Kentucky I assumed the state was rather bland when it came to nature and the outdoors — how wrong I was.
Turns out Kentucky has plenty to offer (those mountains!). I love exploring Mammoth Cave (the longest cave in the world!) or hanging out on the lakes during the hot summer months. Some of my favorite lakes are Kentucky Lake, Land Between the Lakes and Lake Barkley.
If you’re new to the area, take a trip over to see Cumberland Gap (breathtaking), the Red River Gorge and the Daniel Boone National Forest. You’ll see what all the fuss is about in no time.
Bonus: Water-Centric Summer Sports
Speaking of lakes, there’s no shortage of great summer sports to partake in while living in Kentucky. Boating, water skiing, swimming, etc. You’re bound to find something to love.
Access to water is a huge perk of living in Kentucky and locals know to take advantage. In the summer most of our days center around the local lakes and rivers (which swell with locals).
Live here? Is #6 still true? Say so
7. Kentucky Has Some Spectacular Scenic Beauty
I touched on outdoor recreation a minute ago, but I’d like to delve into the state’s beauty a little more. The reason is simple, the undeniable scenic beauty makes living in Kentucky a joy.
While researching moving to Kentucky I settled on the western part of the state because I found the rolling hills irresistible. The area is full of breathtaking forests, lakes and never-ending fields of blooms.
Eastern Kentucky, located at the feet of the epic Appalachian Mountain range, is also very beautiful. It’s all about vibrant hills and valleys on this end, which makes the hiking opportunities endless. I’ve made a habit of spending summers camping on the eastern end of the state because it’s so beautiful.
The central part of the state is a tad flat for my liking (I love varied landscapes). This is where most of the crop grows, so you’ll see tons of farms and livestock while driving through.
Live here? Is #7 still true? Say so
8. The Kentucky Derby
Alright, no list of the pros of moving to Kentucky is complete without mentioning the beloved Kentucky Derby. This is an annual horse racing event held during the month of May in Churchill Downs.
You’ll rub elbows with locals and tourists alike at the various festivities and parties leading up to the main event.
The Kentucky Derby is a classy affair and you’ll want to dress up for the occasion (don’t forget a hat!). This is one of the most unique events in the USA (folks tune in and watch from all over the country) and having the ability to catch the event in person is priceless. Here’s information on Kentucky Derby tickets for anyone interested in attending.
Live here? Is #8 still true? Say so
9. Tax Breaks for Folks Retiring in Kentucky
Here’s a huge perk of retiring in Kentucky — you get some pretty sweet tax breaks. The state is unique in its appeal to seniors — social security income is not taxed and retirement income (pensions, 401K and IRA) are exempt from taxes up to $31,110 per person.
All this to say, the massive tax breaks make retiring in Kentucky a smart move.
Live here? Is #9 still true? Say so
Cons of Living in Kentucky
1. Racism Is Prevalent
Hands down, my least favorite thing about living in Kentucky is the blatant racism. I’ve lost count of the number of times I heard people make (and laugh) at racist jokes. Or the number of times I’ve seen the Confederate flag flying in the breeze from a neighbor’s porch.
On the few occasions I’ve been bold enough to strike a conversation about the confederate flag I’ve been met with resistance. “It’s part of our history, part of our culture.” Frankly, it grates my nerves, know what else is part of our history? British occupation. But we broke free from those chains, why keep the racist past?!
I’m serious, the racism is the biggest reason I’m considering moving from Kentucky. It’s unacceptable and downright disgusting. And for readers preparing to comment “then why don’t you move?” I ask only one question — why is that the default response? We can do way better.
Live here? Is #1 as bad as this says? Say so
2. We’re One of the Least Educated States In the Country
Here’s another hard thing about living in Kentucky — statistically speaking, our residents are some of the least educated in the country. Ranking #45 (out of 50), we have some of lowest numbers of college educated residents in the nation.
So, what does this mean for daily life in Kentucky? Well, speaking from personal experience, it means your daily conversations will fall into one of two categories:
The first being college educated folks who seem more open to discussion and learning.
The second being folks that glorify the “good old days.” In my opinion, these folks are harder to converse with because they’re closed off to new perspectives and tend to stick to the same topics.
If I had to guess the most watched program on TV, I’d bet my life savings on Fox News. Again, this is my personal experience, not everyone feels the same way, so take this with a grain of salt.
Live here? Is #2 as bad as this says? Say so
3. Poor Job Market + Low Wages
Recall how I mentioned the low cost of living in Kentucky is what attracts many folks to the state? Well, let’s talk about the reason why the cost of living is so low — low wages and the poor job market. In fact, Kentucky is ranked as having the worst job market in the country.
The poor job market coupled with low wages and high unemployment (3.8%) rate means having a gig lined up before moving to Kentucky is non-negotiable.
Live here? Is #3 as bad as this says? Say so
4. Kentucky Has Some of the Highest Obesity Rates In the Country
That’s right, but don’t just take my word for it. You’ll notice that living in Kentucky doesn’t necessarily lend itself to an active lifestyle. Fast food is a daily ritual for many residents (you can tell by the long drive-through lines), which explains the high obesity rates (not to mention high levels of heart disease).
If you’re looking to start an active lifestyle after moving to Kentucky you’ll be going against the grain. It’s hard to stay motivated when the daily lives of those around you lends itself to other priorities, so heads up!
Live here? Is #4 as bad as this says? Say so
5. High Rates of Depression
A fact that catches folks by surprise is that Kentucky has some of the highest depression rates in the nation. Nearly 23% of residents have identified themselves as depressed, which is an alarming rate (nearly 1 out of 4 folks living in Kentucky!).
Now on to the big question, why? Well, I’d be lying if I said I had the answer. Honestly speaking, I don’t really know why the depression rates are so high in our state. If I had to guess I’d wager it has something to do with the high unemployment rate, poverty, poor school system and maybe even the obesity rates.
If you know why Kentucky has some of the highest rates of depression in the country, let me (and other readers) know the reason in the comments below.
Live here? Is #5 as bad as this says? Say so
6. Natural Disasters Are A Consideration While Living in Kentucky
One of the things that took some adjustment after moving to Kentucky was the likelihood of natural disasters. Kentucky is no stranger to tornadoes and flooding.
In 2020, the state saw 26 tornadoes (and 63 in 2021!). This handy chart outlines the tornadoes we’ve had since 1950. The most common season for tornadoes is spring through fall. It’s not like you have to plan your daily life around them or anything, but the thought is always looming, which is why I want to mention it.
Also, if you’re moving to Kentucky to buy a home, make sure to check out this handy resource on flood risks (and avoid those areas!).
Live here? Is #6 as bad as this says? Say so
7. Kentucky Lacks Diversity
With more than 81.3% residents identifying as white, Kentucky is one of the 10 least diverse states in the country. Shocking, I know.
Live here? Is #7 as bad as this says? Say so
8. Poor Public School System
If you’re moving to Kentucky with kids in tow, know this: our public school education sucks. This goes hand-in-hand with us being one of the least educated states in the country (as mentioned earlier), but let’s delve further.
Our high school graduation rate (87%) is one of the lowest in the nation. Even if your kid graduates from high school, their education is questionable. Our public schools rank way too low for comfort (based on standardized testing).
In fact, 18.5% of Kentucky residents live below the poverty line. This is one of the highest rates of poverty in the country and I’m guessing the poor public schools contribute to that ghastly figure.
All told, we made the decision of putting our kid through private school because a quality education wasn’t something we were going to negotiate. So my advice to you is this: Research private schools and factor that into your cost of living in Kentucky if you have school-aged kids.
Live here? Is #8 as bad as this says? Say so
Which of these is wrong about Kentucky, and what does it actually cost you? Tell the next person the truth from your street.
- $308k−0.7%FRED / realtor.com · 2026-0911th cheapest of 50 states
- $233k+0.1%Zillow Home Value Index (state) · 2026-086th cheapest of 50 states
- 4.7%±0 ptBLS Local Area Unemployment Statistics · 2026-08tied for 40th lowest of 50 states
- $4.03−2.7%AAA · 2026-10-0210th cheapest of 50 states
- 90.2US = 100BEA Regional Price Parities (SARPP) · 2024
Locals’ verdictGrade Kentucky on cost, weather, jobs, people and safety · where it stands on our rankings
Things to Consider About Living in Kentucky
Religion Plays A Huge Role In Daily Life in Kentucky
Don’t plan on moving to Kentucky without knowing the (massive) role religion plays in daily life. Practically everyone you meet with either be Christian, Methodist or Baptist.
Religion is a huge part of people’s identity and most of your conversations are bound to touch on the subject lightly, even if just in greeting. Just something to be mindful of. Heck, even though I’m not religious myself, there’s aspects of this that I actually like (if I’m being honest!).
Retiring in Kentucky FAQ
Is Kentucky A Good Place to Live?
This is a hard question to answer because it’s personal. If you’re looking for a slower way of life and have a self-sufficient attitude about you, then yes, Kentucky is a good place to live. It’s affordable, the people are kind and the scenic beauty is top notch.
If you’re into city living, you’ll find living in Kentucky challenging. The largest cities aren’t nearly as lively as their west and east coast counterparts, so they lack excitement.
Remember this is based on personal experience, not everyone feels the same way, but I’m just being honest.
Compare the Pros vs the Cons of Living in Kentucky
| Pros of Living in Kentucky | Cons of Moving to Kentucky |
|---|---|
| The housing market is still affordable | High rates of depression |
| Low property taxes | One of the least college-educated states in the country |
| Overall low cost of living in Kentucky | Poor job market + low wages |
| Moving to Kentucky means minimal tax burden | Racism is prevalent |
| The cuisine | Kentucky has some of the highest obesity rates in the country |
| Kentucky Bourbon | Natural disasters are a consideration in Kentucky |
| Plenty of outdoor recreation | Kentucky lacks diversity |
| Water-centric summer sports | Poor public school system |
| Tax breaks for folks retiring in Kentucky | Religion plays a huge role in daily life in Kentucky |
| The state has scenic beauty | |
| The Kentucky Derby |
Pros & Cons of Moving to Kentucky (Post Summary)
In sum, here’s a quick roundup of the pros and cons of living in Kentucky. Hope you enjoyed!
- The housing market is still affordable
- Low property taxes
- Overall low cost of living in Kentucky
- Moving to Kentucky means minimal tax burden
- The cuisine
- Kentucky Bourbon
- Plenty of outdoor recreation
- Water-centric summer sports
- Tax breaks for folks retiring in Kentucky
- The state has scenic beauty
- The Kentucky Derby
- High rates of depression
- One of the least college educated states in the country
- Poor job market + low wages
- Racism is prevalent
- Kentucky has some of the highest obesity rates in the country
- Natural disasters are a consideration while living in Kentucky
- Kentucky lacks diversity
- Poor public school system
- Religion plays a huge role in daily life in Kentucky
I hope you enjoyed this list of the pros and cons of living in Kentucky. Don’t forget to leave your two cents below, we love to hear from you!
Cheers!
Map of Kentucky
Pins | Moving to Kentucky
Check Out Some More Perspectives From the Midwest
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Living in Michigan: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Michigan
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Living in Ohio: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Ohio
Living in Iowa: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Iowa
Living in Arkansas: 15 Honest Pros & Cons of Living in Arkansas
What people ask about Kentucky
What should you know before moving to Kentucky?
The first month is paperwork, and the car is where the money goes. Kentucky wants your license switched within 30 days of establishing residency, and a standard four-year license is $21.50 (Kentucky Transportation Cabinet). Your car needs a sheriff’s inspection before the county clerk will title it, plus Kentucky insurance (minimums of $25,000, $50,000 and $25,000). Then comes a 6 percent motor vehicle usage tax, so a $30,000 car means about $1,800, less credit for a similar tax you already paid elsewhere (Kentucky Department of Revenue). The state’s own page says both 10 and 15 days to register, so do it inside 10.
Sources: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet; Kentucky Department of Revenue
Is Kentucky cheap to live in?
Yes, cheap, and housing is why. Overall prices run about 10 percent under the US average (BEA price parities, 2024: 90.2 against 100). A typical Kentucky home is worth about $233,000 against $369,000 nationally, and typical rent in the Louisville metro is $1,348 against $1,948 nationwide (Zillow, August 2026). The catch is the paycheck: median household income is $63,726 (Census ACS, 2020-2024). Pro #1 covers the housing side. Bring a coastal salary and the math is easy; take a local job and it’s tighter than the prices suggest.
Sources: BEA regional price parities, 2024; Zillow home values, August 2026; Zillow rent index, August 2026; Census ACS 5-year estimates, 2020-2024
Where is the best place to live in Kentucky?
Louisville for value, Lexington if you’ll pay for it, and Owensboro or Paducah if you want cheap. The Louisville metro’s typical home is worth about $280,000 with typical rent of $1,348; the Lexington metro runs about $326,000 and $1,539 (Zillow, August 2026). Northern Kentucky sits in the Cincinnati metro, where a typical home is about $308,000. The Owensboro metro is about $215,000 and the Paducah metro about $174,000 (Zillow, August 2026). We’d start with Louisville if you need city jobs, and Owensboro or Paducah if you’re remote or retired.
Sources: Zillow home values, August 2026; Zillow rent index, August 2026
Is Kentucky safe?
Yes, by the numbers it’s safer than the country as a whole, on violence and on theft. Kentucky’s violent crime rate was 214.3 per 100,000 people in 2025 against 329.3 for the whole US, and its property crime rate was 1,281.5 against 1,552.1 (FBI Crime Data Explorer, 2025). For a family weighing Kentucky against the national picture, that means less violence and less theft in Kentucky.
Sources: FBI Crime Data Explorer, 2025
Is it cheaper to live in Kentucky than other states?
Mostly yes. On the BEA’s price index (2024, US = 100), Kentucky is 90.2, against 91.9 for Tennessee, 92.8 for Ohio, 97.1 for Texas, 100.0 for Illinois, 103.4 for Florida and 110.7 for California. Put simply, prices run about 19 percent under California’s, and the savings shrink to a couple of points next to Tennessee or Ohio. Eleven states, Arkansas and Mississippi among them, come in lower still. If you’re already in the Ohio Valley, the move won’t feel dramatic.
Sources: BEA regional price parities, 2024
Locals split hard here. Some, like Donna Overbee and Jim C, call Kentucky beautiful and worth the work, prizing cheap land and slower living, while others, like Dowel and anne Oconnor, say they regret moving and can’t wait to leave. Drug use comes up again and again as the recurring complaint, with posters describing burglaries for copper wiring and skilled workers vanishing as the coal mines closed. Winters get called mild by transplants who came from colder states, but summers and humidity depend on where you’re coming from.
The most surprising thread isn’t cost or weather, it’s race. Newcomers keep bracing for a friendly, laid-back South and instead find a real argument about racism, with some residents insisting it’s overblown and others, like Irina and Avduegi luigi, describing very different lived experiences in the same towns. Healthcare and skilled labor access vary wildly by county, so people considering rural areas get told to check specifics before committing.
“Kentucky is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.”
Jim C Local · 20 years
“Half of population is on drugs.”
Dowel Local · 20 years
“Winters are short and mild in most years.”
HappyKYTransplant Local · 10 years
