Kentucky

Cost of Living: Low

Train Access: No

Bus Service: Yes (TARC, Lextran, Go BG Transit, TANK, relatively safe)

Kentucky is a state in the Upper South region of the United States, known for its rolling hills, bluegrass landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The state has a diverse economy historically centered on tobacco, coal, and bourbon production, though it has modernized to include manufacturing, healthcare, and technology sectors. Kentucky is famous for its horse racing tradition, particularly the Kentucky Derby, and has a strong musical heritage rooted in country, bluegrass, and rock music. The state offers a blend of urban amenities in cities like Louisville and Lexington alongside rural charm and outdoor recreation. Life in Kentucky is generally characterized by Southern hospitality, affordable living, and strong community ties. The state attracts people seeking a lower cost of living, natural beauty, and a slower pace compared to major metropolitan areas.

Podcasts

Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns

Jake Barber, the Founder and CEO of SJB Global, is a life-long expat and an expert in expat finance. Over the course of Expat Exchange's nearly 30 years online, there are few people we have met with as much lived experience and professional acumen as Jake. We were thrilled to welcome him back to the show and look forward to having him on again!

Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat

Jake Barber is an expat finance expert and the founder and principal of SJB Global. A lifelong expat currently living in Marbella, Spain, Jake has vast experience helping expats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries manage their finances while living abroad. Get a primer on what you need to know both before and after you move abroad!

Best Places to Live in Kentucky

Discover the top-ranked towns in Kentucky. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Kentucky on our Kentucky forum - meet people, get advice and help others.

Visit the Kentucky Community

Cost of Living

Kentucky has a low cost of living compared to national averages. Housing is particularly affordable, with median home prices ranging from $150,000–$250,000 depending on location, and rental prices averaging $800–$1,200 for a one-bedroom apartment in urban areas. Daily expenses including groceries, utilities, and transportation are below the national average, making Kentucky an attractive option for budget-conscious relocators.

Weather

Kentucky experiences a humid subtropical to humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are mild to moderate, with temperatures typically ranging from 25–45°F, and occasional snow and ice storms. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures often reaching 80–90°F and high humidity levels. Spring and fall are pleasant with moderate temperatures, though severe weather including thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes can occur, particularly in spring.

Educational System in Kentucky

The educational system in Kentucky is structured similarly to that of other states in the United States. Education is compulsory for children from the age of 6 to 18, and the public school system is divided into elementary, middle, and high schools. Elementary education typically starts with kindergarten and continues through fifth grade. Middle school usually comprises grades six through eight, while high school consists of grades nine through twelve. Students graduate from high school around the age of 18, often with a diploma that can be used to apply to colleges or enter the workforce. Kentucky places a strong emphasis on education standards and accountability, with the Kentucky Department of Education overseeing the state's public schools. The state has also implemented the Kentucky Education Reform Act, which aims to improve the quality of education for all students. Parents moving to Kentucky from another country can expect to find a variety of educational options, including public schools, private schools, and homeschooling. Public education is funded by the state and is free to all students, while private schools may charge tuition. Kentucky schools offer a range of programs and services to support student learning, including special education, gifted education, and English as a Second Language (ESL) programs.