Best Places to Live in Kentucky

Lexington is a powerhouse with 325,000 residents and a smart workforce driven by the University of Kentucky. The economy thrives on healthcare, biotech, and the famous equine industry. Neighborhoods like Chevy Chase offer a cool mix of city living and classic homeownership. It’s also known for being inclusive, with a visible LGBTQ+ community. From downtown condos to rolling horse farms, the variety makes it one of the best towns to live in Kentucky.

Georgetown has nearly 38,000 residents and one of Kentucky’s highest-paying job bases thanks to Toyota Motor Manufacturing, where wages often exceed $70,000. The plant supports suppliers, engineers, and skilled trades. Downtown centers on Main Street dining. Harbor Village and Mallard Point attract buyers. Proximity to Lexington expands healthcare and tech access. Georgetown pairs family-focused planning with strong blue-collar and professional career options, attracting newcomers from central Kentucky and Midwest auto hubs. These factors place Georgetown among the best cities in Kentucky to live.

Fort Thomas, with its population of about 17,000, consistently ranks as one of the best cities to live in Kentucky. It’s easy to see why, given the high median income and stunning Ohio River views. The historic charm near Tower Park draws buyers looking for homes with character. While the top-tier schools are a huge plus, many residents commute to Cincinnati for finance and healthcare jobs. The walkable vibe along Highland Avenue adds to the appeal, keeping property values strong.

Richmond has about 36,000 residents and runs on Eastern Kentucky University, which anchors jobs in education, healthcare, and administration. Median household income is near $48,000, keeping home prices below the state median. Downtown along Main Street mixes local dining with restored storefronts. Many residents commute 25 minutes to Lexington. Arlington and Lake Reba areas attract families. The city hosts Pride-friendly student groups, public festivals, and year-round college-driven cultural events. Lake Reba Recreation Complex is a major local draw for sports leagues, trails, and events serving both residents and students.

Frankfort has around 28,000 residents and the most stable job market in the state due to Kentucky state government employment. Median household income is near $52,000. Downtown near Broadway and the Capitol is walkable, anchored by Buffalo Trace Distillery and riverfront offices. South Frankfort features historic homes. Kentucky State University adds diversity and public-sector careers. The city supports inclusive civic events and a slower, policy-driven economy. River views, compact neighborhoods, and predictable hours appeal to families and mid-career professionals. Cost stability remains a key draw.

Florence is home to roughly 33,000 residents and sits minutes from Cincinnati via I-75, making it a logistics and retail hub. Median household income is about $67,000, supported by Amazon, DHL, St. Elizabeth Healthcare, and CVG Airport jobs. Mall Road concentrates shopping and dining. Oakbrook and Plantation Pointe are popular neighborhoods. Boone County Schools draw families. The area is LGBTQ+ inclusive with regional access to Cincinnati resources. The city’s workforce skews professional and managerial, with easy cross-state commuting defining daily life. Local civic groups host frequent community events.

Berea is defined by Berea College, a unique spot that drives the local arts and education scene. With a population of 16,000 and affordable living, it’s a haven for artists and retirees. Old Town is packed with craft studios, and the town is proud of its progressive values and LGBTQ+ visibility. Indian Fort Mountain offers trails that are a big part of daily life here. It’s a community where tourism and education blend perfectly.

Hopkinsville, with roughly 31,000 residents, serves as a civilian hub for Fort Campbell, creating a younger, transient-friendly population. Median home prices remain well below the state average, appealing to first-time buyers. Jobs focus on military support, Jennie Stuart Health, light manufacturing, and logistics. Downtown’s Little River Walk and historic facades anchor revitalization. Hopkinsville High and Christian County High serve mixed military-civilian households, making the city one of the cheapest places to live in Kentucky.

Covington has about 40,000 residents and one of Northern Kentucky’s most walkable urban cores. Historic districts like MainStrasse Village define housing stock, with restored row homes and apartments priced below Cincinnati averages. Employment leans toward healthcare, hospitality, and cross-river commuters. The city has an active LGBTQ+ scene and arts presence. Riverfront access and transit connectivity drive appeal among renters and young professionals seeking urban density.

Wilmore is a cozy town of about 6,000 people, sitting just 12 miles south of Lexington. Life here revolves around Asbury University, which brings in arts events and steady education jobs. Homes are much cheaper than in the city, making it great for first-time buyers. Most locals commute to Lexington for work, but they come home to a quiet life. With a charming Main Street and incredibly low crime, Wilmore is easily one of the safest cities in Kentucky.