Lexington, KY
Why You’ll Love Living in Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington, Kentucky, known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” is surrounded by picturesque horse farms and rolling green pastures. But the city also offers all the amenities of a thriving urban center, including galleries, theaters and museums, as well as exceptional dining and shopping. Lexington is home to a robust job market, excellent schools and a lower cost of living than the national average, making it attractive for families and professionals alike. The spectacular geography of the nearby Red River Gorge is a magnet for climbers, hikers and campers.
Thinking of moving to Lexington, KY? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Lexington, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Lexington, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Lexington, KY, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Thoroughbreds, bourbon and Wildcats – what a combination! Lexington, KY, offers those things among a lot of other enviable amenities, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. Horses are a big part of the culture (and economy). Equestrian centers like Kneeland, Kentucky Horse Park and the Red Mile race course entertain residents and tourists alike.
Following behind horse racing and raising horses is bourbon, a big moneymaker in this part of Kentucky. Lexington is on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and has several local distilleries that prosper alongside corporations like Valvoline and Lockheed Martin, in addition to industries such as education, health care, manufacturing and distribution.
It’s no surprise that education ranks high here. Lexington is home to the University of Kentucky (those aforementioned Wildcats and their legendary fans!), giving this city a youthful college atmosphere. Many of those students decide to stay, partly because of the affordable housing and low cost of living but also because of Lexington’s innovative dining scene and easy way of life. The population of more than 320,000 is well-educated, with more than 40% aged 25 and older holding a college degree. The public schools are also excellent, so the city is perfect for young families.
Live music, cute boutiques, tasting rooms and plenty of places to play also make this an attractive place to live. And, for those who like to travel, the city’s prime location is within a day’s drive of two-thirds of the United States population.
Lexington, KY Quality of Life LivScore
Lexington, KY Top Categories
Housing & Cost of Living
Economy
Environment
Lexington ranks highest for housing, economy and environment.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Lexington, KY
Lexington enjoys hot, humid summers and short, mild winters. Summer highs average above 77°F. July is the hottest month, with average highs around 85°F. The coldest month is January, with an average low of 27°F.
The average annual snowfall in Lexington is below the national average at roughly 11 inches yearly.
The average annual rainfall in Lexington is 46 inches, with May and June being the wettest months.
Lexington averages 186 sunny days a year.
With bluegrass-covered rolling hills, a winding river and stunning pastures, Lexington is a beautiful place to enjoy year-round. Take in a round of golf at one of several area golf courses. Enjoy kayaking at Jacobson Park. Or visit a horse farm and add in a horseback riding excursion.
Things To Do in Lexington, KY
Embrace Lexington’s unique equine culture at Keeneland Thoroughbred Racing. You can view early morning workouts and stroll their beautifully landscaped grounds for free. If horses aren’t your thing, visit the Lexington Art League, which offers free exhibitions of contemporary local and regional art in the historic Loudoun House.
Families will love the Kentucky Horse Park. With interactive museum exhibits, daily horse shows and holiday light shows, it’s easy to find something kids will enjoy here.
In Lexington, home to some of the most famous horses in history, every Thoroughbred has at least one trait in common. No matter when they were born during the year, all Thoroughbreds in the Northern Hemisphere have a Jan. 1 birthday.
More than just a large, independent bookstore, Joseph-Beth is part of the fabric of Lexington. Featuring two stories of books and gifts and an on-site restaurant, Brontë Bistro, the Joseph-Beth Give Back Rewards program allows customers to select a community partner to receive a percentage of every purchase made in the store.
Dudley’s on Short is a sweet little spot with a big reputation as a dinner spot staple within the community. Located in the Northern Bank Building, built in 1889, this quirky two-story restaurant has won countless awards for its stellar American cuisine and excellent wine list.
Opened in 1887 and still going strong, the Lexington Opera House on West Short Street downtown is the perfect place to find all sorts of live performances, from Broadway productions to comedy shows. Then, of course, is Rupp Arena, which serves as both the home court for the Kentucky Wildcats basketball team and hosts dozens of nationally touring acts each year.
Lexington is in the heart of Bourbon Country, so why not visit one of the many spots in the Lexington Distillery District? This 25-acre property reimagined an abandoned distillery into a full entertainment spot with several working bourbon distilleries, various eateries and fun entertainment venues.
The Local and State Economy in Lexington, KY
Education, health care and manufacturing are key industries in Lexington. The University of Kentucky and Fayette County Public Schools are two of the city’s largest employers. In addition, Tempur Sealy International, Valvoline and Lexmark International are also headquartered in Lexington.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Lexington is 6%.
Yes, Kentucky has a state income tax.
The University of Kentucky Albert B Chandler Hospital is one of the largest in Kentucky and the only hospital in the state to be ranked nationally in nearly a dozen adult specialties. Baptist Health is also recognized as one of the Best Regional Hospitals by U.S. News & World Report thanks to its high-performance ratings in multiple specialties.
Lexington has several major colleges and universities, including the University of Kentucky and Bluegrass Community & Technical College.
Weather in Lexington, KY
Average Temperatures
65 high / 45 low
Average Annual Rainfall
46 in
Average Annual Snowfall
11 in
Quick Facts about Lexington, Kentucky
- Median Home Value
- $250,139
- Median Property Tax
- $2,714
- Total Population
- 322,038
- Average Commute
- 19 min
- Median Household Income
- $70,608
- Median Monthly Rent
- $838
Map of Lexington, KY
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