Thinking about moving to Kentucky? With a $233.7 billion economy and thriving industries like healthcare, technology, tourism, and logistics, the Bluegrass State offers plenty of opportunity. In fact the Bluegrass State ranks among the top 10 US states to start a business.
But the move comes with trade-offs. The state faces several challenges with its aging infrastructure and underfunded education system. Still, many are choosing cities like Louisville and Lexington for new career opportunities and a better quality of life.
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AT A GLANCE:
- Kentucky has a robust economy, with sectors like healthcare, tech, tourism, and logistics growing fast.
- Kentucky’s tech sector is expected to grow by 30% in 2025.
- The state has one of the lowest costs of doing business in the country.
- The cost of living in Kentucky is 8% lower than the national average.
- Expect to pay between $2,200 and $6,400 for your move, depending on how far you’re moving and the size of your belongings.
- Kentucky has a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. However, the state is prone to tornadoes and flash floods.
3 Reasons to Move to Kentucky
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in Kentucky, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Affordable Housing
Kentucky is the 5th-most affordable housing market in the country. The median house price in Kentucky is $224K, which is significantly lower than the national average of $443K. Renting is also 35% cheaper than the national average.
Moreover, the number of homes for sale in Kentucky has increased by 11%, and on average, homes take 8 days longer to sell. The growing inventory and low demand point to a buyer’s market in Kentucky.
2. Job Opportunities
Kentucky has a robust economy with over 100,000 job openings in 2025. Additionally, the state plans to add 97,441 new jobs by the end of 2032 across the various sectors. Here’s what you need to know about the job market in Kentucky:
- Healthcare: Kentucky has 135 hospitals and healthcare facilities across the state. The average salary of a healthcare worker in Kentucky is $57,477 per year. The roles of registered nurses, physician assistants, and physical therapists are in high demand.
- Technology: Kentucky’s tech sector is expanding, especially in northern Kentucky. With major employers like Balluff and C-Forward driving innovation, the sector is expected to grow by 30% in 2025. Jobs in AI, virtual reality, and augmented reality are in high demand.
- Tourism: Around 80 million tourists visited Kentucky in 2024. This massive inflow of tourists generated around $14.3 billion and supported 97,394 jobs across the state. High-demand jobs include hotel managers, tour guides, event planners, and travel agents.
- Logistics and Distribution: Thanks to its central location, Kentucky offers access to 54% of the US population within a day’s drive, making it a major logistics hub. With over 120 companies, the logistics sector employs around 30,000 people across the state.
3. Business-Friendly Environment
Kentucky’s central location makes it an ideal place for businesses. It’s located within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the US population. With 20 interstates and major highways, along with railroads and rivers for shipping needs, businesses can transport goods efficiently.
Additionally, Kentucky has one of the lowest costs of doing business in the country. The state also offers free workforce training programs, having trained over 95,000 individuals and supported more than 5,000 companies.
Pros and Cons of Living in Kentucky
Here are the major benefits and downsides of living in Kentucky:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Kentucky has a robust economy, with growing job sectors like healthcare, tech, skilled trades, and logistics. | 1. Summers in Kentucky are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 98°F. |
| 2. The cost of living in Kentucky is 8% lower than the national average, and renting a house is 36% cheaper. | 2. Public transportation options are limited. Owning a car is necessary for daily errands. |
| 3. The state’s central location and borders with 7 other states make it a hub for logistics and supply chain operations. | 3. FEMA designates Kentucky a high-risk state for tornadoes and flash floods. |
| 4. Kentucky has a property tax rate of 0.73%, which is significantly lower than the US average of 0.90%. | 4. Kentucky currently ranks among the bottom states when it comes to education. |
Things to Know Before Moving to Kentucky 📌
Here are some things to keep in mind before relocating to Kentucky:
1. Low Cost of Living in Kentucky
The cost of living in Kentucky is 8% lower than the national average. Housing and renting is relatively affordable, and you’ll also spend less on everyday expenses like groceries, healthcare, and transportation.
Kentucky can be a good option compared to states like California and New York, where living costs are 50% and 30% above the national average.
2. Infrastructure and Transportation
Kentucky faces several challenges with its aging and overburdened infrastructure. 30% of the roads in the state are in poor or fair condition. Additionally, while 8% of its bridges are deficient in their structure.
However, the state is actively working to improve its infrastructure. Kentucky is set to receive approximately $5.1 billion over five years in federal funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for the development of highways and bridges.
3. Climate in Kentucky
Kentucky has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are usually hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 98°F. Winters tend to be mild, with temperatures between 20°F and 42°F. The year-round pleasant weather makes it ideal to enjoy the outdoors.
However, the state is vulnerable to several natural calamities, including tornadoes, floods, severe storms, and winter storms. Western Kentucky is particularly prone to tornadoes, while the eastern parts of the state experience frequent flash floods.
4. Laws and Regulations
- Vehicle Registration and Driver’s License: You have to register your vehicle within 15 days and obtain a Kentucky driver’s license within 30 days of establishing your residency. You will need proof of residency, insurance, and vehicle title documents for registration.
- Gun Carrying Laws in Kentucky: Those aged 18 or above can openly carry a weapon without a permit. However, for concealed carry, the minimum age is 21 years. You don’t require a license to purchase a firearm.
- Recreational Marijuana: Use of marijuana for recreational purposes is prohibited in Kentucky. Violation of the law can attract up to $250 in fines and 45 days of prison time.
- Pet Registration laws: Kentucky does not have a statewide law for pet registration. However, several cities require you to register dogs and cats over 6 months of age. You can visit your city’s website for specific details about pet registration laws in your area.
5. Tax Burden in Kentucky
Here’s a detailed breakdown of Kentucky’s primary tax burden for an individual:
- Income Tax: Kentucky has a flat 4% income tax. However, cities often levy local income tax, bringing the effective income tax rate in Kentucky to 9.6%.
- Sales Tax: The state has a sales tax rate of 6%. Unlike some other states, Kentucky does not have a local sales tax. Additionally, most food items, prescription drugs, and prosthetic devices are exempt from sales tax.
- Property Tax: Kentucky levies a 0.73% property tax on the assessed value of your property, slightly lower than the national average of 0.90%.
How to Move to Kentucky?
Before buying a house in Kentucky, follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless move:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you want to skip all the heavy lifting, consider hiring a professional mover. You can expect to pay around $90 per hour in Kentucky. However, this amount can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- If you want to DIY, hiring a truck is a better option. The average cost to rent a mid-sized truck with a load capacity of 4,000 to 6,000 lbs ranges between $40 and $80 per day. Remember to factor in additional charges for mileage, fuel, and insurance.
2. How to Set Up Utilities?
Getting your utilities set up is a straightforward process in Kentucky:
- Electricity and Gas: Louisville Gas and Electric (LG&E) serves Louisville and 16 other counties, while Kentucky Utilities (KU) supplies other parts of the state. Visit your city’s website to find a suitable service provider in your area.
- Water: Water in Kentucky is usually provided by the local utility companies. Louisville Water Company and Kentucky American Water are the state’s largest providers. You can visit your city’s website to identify the service provider in your area and begin the service.
- Internet: Spectrum, AT&T, and Windstream are among the largest internet and cable service providers in Kentucky. The average cost of internet and cable service ranges from $30 to $80 per month. Visit their respective websites to check availability in your area.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in School?
Most schools in Kentucky let you register online:
- Kindergarten and First Grade: Children must be 5 years old for kindergarten, and 6 for the first grade, by August 1. For the enrollment process, you will need the child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, proof of residency, and a photo ID.
- For Older Kids: You will need all the above-mentioned documents, in addition to transcripts and a withdrawal form from their previous school.
- Transfers & Special Cases: School transfers in Kentucky are generally managed by the local school districts. You can directly contact the school district office or visit their website for assistance in the process.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- Work From Home: 19% of people in Kentucky work from their homes. If you’re someone who works remotely, just make sure that your employer follows all the Kentucky tax and employment rules.
- Find a New Job: Kentucky’s National Job Exchange (NLx) is a comprehensive database of job openings. Moreover, you can also visit job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn to search and apply for jobs in your area.
5. How to Find the Perfect House?
The Kentucky housing market leans in favor of buyers. 24.2% listed homes have experienced price drops, and inventory has increased by 11%. The price reduction and increased supply give buyers more negotiating power to secure better deals.
- In popular cities like Louisville, Lexington, and Bowling Green, the average rent is around $1,350. This rent depends on nearby amenities and the neighborhood you are moving to.
- If you plan to buy a home in a popular city, homes for sale in Louisville cost around $254K. On the other hand, cities like Middlesbrough and Williamsburg have more affordable housing options, with median prices of $109K and $113K respectively.
Should I Move to Kentucky?
Yes, you should definitely move to Kentucky. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, moving to Kentucky isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, Kentucky’s best home-buying website, buying a house in the Bluegrass State is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
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Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to Kentucky, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent, Median home price
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates, Average cost of moving
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to Kentucky, long before the moving boxes are packed.
