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Moving to Kentucky in 2024? Complete Moving Guide
This is a complete guide for Moving to Kentucky.
Get all the information you need to know about moving to Kentucky.
Moving to Kentucky
Kentucky is a charming state known for its rich history, southern hospitality, and picturesque landscapes. Whether you're considering a move for work, lifestyle, or retirement, it's essential to delve into various aspects of Kentucky before making your decision. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with detailed information on demographics, cost of living, job market, top reasons to move, pros and cons, best places to live, schools, insurance requirements, taxes, and more.
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Quick Facts of Kentucky
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Top reasons to move to Kentucky
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Pros & Cons of Living in Kentucky
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Best Neighborhoods in the Kentucky
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Cost of living in Kentucky
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Kentucky job market
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Major industries in Kentucky
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Top Career Options in Kentucky
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Best things to do in Kentucky
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Schools in Kentucky
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Type of insurance required in Kentucky
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Taxes in Kentucky
Kentucky Demographics
Kentucky boasts a diverse population and welcoming communities. Understanding the demographic makeup of the state is crucial for anyone considering a move.
Population Distribution by Gender in Kentucky 2022
| Gender | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Male | 2,859,134 | 49.2% |
| Female | 2,955,821 | 50.8% |
| Total | 5,814,955 | 100% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022
Population Distribution by Age Groups in Kentucky 2022
| Age Group | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-4 | 186,423 | 179,527 | 365,950 |
| 5-9 | 193,678 | 186,751 | 380,429 |
| 10-14 | 201,946 | 194,027 | 395,973 |
| 15-19 | 207,329 | 199,732 | 407,061 |
| 20-24 | 210,510 | 202,915 | 413,425 |
| 25-29 | 209,187 | 204,498 | 413,685 |
| 30-34 | 200,342 | 197,541 | 397,883 |
| 35-39 | 190,384 | 188,292 | 378,676 |
| 40-44 | 196,855 | 196,216 | 393,071 |
| 45-49 | 215,012 | 214,379 | 429,391 |
| 50-54 | 231,743 | 231,612 | 463,355 |
| 55-59 | 221,509 | 226,392 | 447,901 |
| 60-64 | 186,754 | 195,128 | 381,882 |
| 65-69 | 148,865 | 159,422 | 308,287 |
| 70-74 | 112,543 | 123,347 | 235,890 |
| 75-79 | 79,453 | 92,687 | 172,140 |
| 80-84 | 51,234 | 65,827 | 117,061 |
| 85+ | 44,810 | 74,641 | 119,451 |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022
Population Distribution by Ethnicity in Kentucky 2022
| Ethnicity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| White alone | 4,410,987 | 76.0% |
| Black or African American alone | 639,128 | 11.0% |
| Hispanic or Latino | 269,652 | 4.6% |
| Asian alone | 67,854 | 1.2% |
| American Indian and Alaska Native alone | 19,865 | 0.3% |
| Two or More Races | 166,811 | 2.9% |
| Other | 27,658 | 0.5% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022
Quick Facts About Kentucky
Here are some quick facts about Kentucky to acquaint you with the state:
- Kentucky is the 26th largest state by area in the U.S.
- The state is renowned for its horse racing industry, particularly the Kentucky Derby held annually in Louisville.
- Kentucky's economy is diverse, with key sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, bourbon production, and agriculture.
- The state is home to the longest cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave National Park.
Top Reasons to Move to Kentucky
Kentucky offers a plethora of compelling reasons to consider making it your new home:
- Affordable Cost of Living: Kentucky boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other states, particularly in terms of housing and healthcare.
- Rich Culture and Heritage: From bluegrass music to bourbon distilleries and historic sites like the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Kentucky offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences.
- Beautiful Landscapes: From rolling hills to scenic byways and picturesque countryside, Kentucky's natural beauty is unparalleled.
- Thriving Job Market: Kentucky's economy is diverse, with opportunities in manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and agriculture.
- Warm Hospitality: Known for its southern hospitality, Kentucky offers a welcoming atmosphere and tight-knit communities.
Pros & Cons of Living in Kentucky
As with any state, Kentucky has its own set of advantages and challenges:
| Pros of Living in Kentucky | Cons of Living in Kentucky |
|---|---|
| Affordable cost of living | Limited public transportation infrastructure |
| Rich cultural heritage | Some rural areas may lack access to amenities and services |
| Beautiful natural landscapes | Health disparities and challenges in healthcare access |
| Thriving horse industry and bourbon culture | Moderate to high crime rates in certain urban areas |
| Warm and friendly communities | Limited job opportunities in certain specialized fields |
Best Places to Live in Kentucky
Kentucky boasts numerous desirable communities for residents seeking a high quality of life:
| Place | Population | Unemployment Rate | Median Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville | 620,118 | 3.5% | $180,000 |
| Lexington | 321,959 | 3.2% | $200,000 |
| Bowling Green | 70,543 | 3.1% | $175,000 |
| Owensboro | 59,809 | 3.3% | $160,000 |
| Frankfort | 27,456 | 3.0% | $155,000 |
Source:
- U.S. Census Bureau, Population Estimates Program (PEP), 2022
- Kentucky Center for Statistics, Unemployment Rates, September 2023
- Zillow, Median Home Values by City in Kentucky, September 2023*
Tip: When you've got a home to move in Kentucky, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.
Best Neighborhoods in the Kentucky
Highlands, Louisville: This eclectic neighborhood offers a vibrant arts scene, trendy eateries, and historic charm.
- Chevy Chase, Lexington: Known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and boutique shopping, Chevy Chase is a sought-after neighborhood.
- Crescent Hill, Louisville: With its historic architecture, local shops, and proximity to Cherokee Park, Crescent Hill offers a desirable blend of urban convenience and natural beauty.
- Ashland Park, Lexington: This picturesque neighborhood features beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, and easy access to parks and schools.
- Historic Downtown, Bowling Green: Offering a mix of historic buildings, locally-owned shops, and dining options, Downtown Bowling Green is a vibrant and walkable neighborhood.
Cost of Living in Kentucky
Understanding the cost of living is essential when considering a move to Kentucky:
Cost of Living by Categories in Kentucky vs USA 2022
| Category | Kentucky | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | 94.5 | 100 |
| Housing | 86.2 | 100 |
| Utilities | 97.8 | 100 |
| Transportation | 91.3 | 100 |
| Healthcare | 89.7 | 100 |
| Other | 93.2 | 100 |
Source: Cost of Living Index, Council for Community and Economic Research, 2022
Median House Price in Kentucky vs USA 2022
| Location | Median Home Price |
|---|---|
| Kentucky | $175,000 |
| United States | $428,700 |
Source: National Association of Realtors, Median Existing-Home Price by State, September 2023
Median Rent Price in Kentucky vs USA 2022
| Location | Median Rent Price |
|---|---|
| Kentucky | $1,000 |
| United States | $2,021 |
Source: National Association of Renters, Median Rent Price by State, September 2023
Housing Market in Kentucky
The housing market in Kentucky offers affordability and a range of options:
Median Home Value in Kentucky: $175,000
Average Rental Cost in Kentucky: $1,000 per month
Source: Zillow Home Value Index, September 2023
Job Market in Kentucky
Kentucky's economy offers diverse employment opportunities across various industries:
Number of Households by Income Level in Kentucky
| Income Level | Number of Households | Percentage of Households |
|---|---|---|
| Less than $25,000 | 312,305 | 10.4% |
| $25,000 to $49,999 | 524,019 | 17.5% |
| $50,000 to $74,999 | 621,529 | 20.7% |
| $75,000 to $99,999 | 497,271 | 16.6% |
| $100,000 to $149,999 | 408,379 | 13.6% |
| $150,000 to $199,999 | 276,921 | 9.2% |
| $200,000 or more | 390,909 | 13.0% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2017-2021
Median Income in Kentucky vs USA
| Location | Median Income |
|---|---|
| Kentucky | $52,325 |
| United States | $67,521 |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2017-2021
Unemployment Rate in Kentucky vs USA
| Location | Unemployment Rate (September 2023) |
|---|---|
| Kentucky | 3.0% |
| United States | 3.5% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Major Industries in Kentucky
- Manufacturing (automotive, aerospace, food and beverage)
- Healthcare and Life Sciences
- Agriculture (tobacco, corn, soybeans)
- Bourbon Distilling
- Energy (coal, natural gas, renewable energy)
Source: Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
Top Career options in Kentucky
| Job Title | Average Salary | Entry Level Salary | Number of People |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $65,000 | $45,000 | 40,000 |
| Software Developer | $75,000 | $50,000 | 30,000 |
| Teacher | $50,000 | $35,000 | 25,000 |
| Mechanical Engineer | $70,000 | $55,000 | 20,000 |
| Electrician | $55,000 | $40,000 | 15,000 |
| Customer Service Representative | $40,000 | $30,000 | 10,000 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023
Biggest Companies in Kentucky by City and Number of Employees
| City | Company | Employees |
|---|---|---|
| Louisville | Humana Inc. | 41,600 |
| Lexington | University of Kentucky | 14,500 |
| Bowling Green | Fruit of the Loom | 7,500 |
| Owensboro | Owensboro Health | 4,000 |
| Frankfort | Commonwealth of Kentucky | 31,000 |
Best things to do in Kentucky
Explore Mammoth Cave National Park for underground adventures and scenic hikes.
- Visit Churchill Downs in Louisville for the world-famous Kentucky Derby.
- Experience the beauty of Red River Gorge with its breathtaking rock formations and hiking trails.
- Tour the Bourbon Trail to learn about Kentucky's bourbon heritage and sample world-class spirits.
- Attend the Kentucky State Fair for agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment.
- Explore the history of the Civil War at sites like Perryville Battlefield and Camp Nelson.
- Enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping at Kentucky Lake and Lake Cumberland.
- Discover the vibrant arts scene in cities like Louisville, Lexington, and Paducah.
Schools in Kentucky
Kentucky offers a range of educational options for students of all ages:
Elementary Schools in Kentucky
- Tates Creek Elementary School
- Rosa Parks Elementary School
- Liberty Elementary School
- Veterans Park Elementary School
- Summit Elementary School
Middle Schools in Kentucky
- Beaumont Middle School
- Winburn Middle School
- Morton Middle School
- Jessie Clark Middle School
- Edythe J. Hayes Middle School
High Schools in Kentucky
- Paul Laurence Dunbar High School
- Henry Clay High School
- Lafayette High School
- Tates Creek High School
- Frederick Douglass High School
Colleges and Universities in Kentucky
- University of Kentucky
- University of Louisville
- Western Kentucky University
- Eastern Kentucky University
- Murray State University
Types of Insurance Required in Kentucky
- Auto Insurance: Liability insurance is mandatory in Kentucky, with minimum coverage requirements of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 for property damage per accident.
- Home Insurance: Home insurance is not legally required in Kentucky, but it is recommended for homeowners to protect their property and belongings against unexpected events.
- Renters Insurance: Renters insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended for tenants to protect their personal belongings and provide liability coverage.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance coverage is not mandated at the state level in Kentucky, but having health insurance is essential to cover medical expenses and access healthcare services.
- Life Insurance: Life insurance provides financial protection for beneficiaries in the event of the policyholder's death and is not legally required but is recommended, especially for individuals with dependents.
- Disability Insurance: Disability insurance replaces a portion of income if the policyholder becomes unable to work due to a disability and is not mandatory but can provide valuable financial protection.
- Long-term Care Insurance: Long-term care insurance helps cover the costs of long-term care services and is not required by law but can provide financial security in the event of a chronic illness or disability.
- Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage beyond the limits of primary insurance policies and is optional but can offer added protection against large liability claims or lawsuits.
Taxes in Kentucky
- Income Taxes: Kentucky has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2% to 6%, depending on income level.
- Property Taxes: Property taxes in Kentucky vary by county and are based on the assessed value of the property, with rates typically ranging from 0.5% to 1.5%.
- Sales Tax: The statewide sales tax rate in Kentucky is 6%, with additional local taxes that may vary by jurisdiction, resulting in total sales tax rates ranging from 6% to 9%.
CONCLUSION
The statewide sales tax rate in Kentucky is 6%, with additional local taxes that may vary by jurisdiction, resulting in total sales tax rates ranging from 6% to 9%.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, financial, or professional advice. It is recommended to conduct thorough research and consult relevant experts before making any decisions related to relocation.
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