Kentucky

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State Motto

United we stand, divided we fall

State Motto of Kentucky

Kentucky State Information

Kentucky is the 15th State in the Union

Kentucky, known as the "Bluegrass State," is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Located in the southeastern U.S., the state is renowned for its picturesque rolling hills, fertile farmlands, and vibrant horse racing industry, exemplified by the famous Kentucky Derby. Kentucky is also historically significant as the birthplace of President Abraham Lincoln and for its pivotal role in the Civil War. Its landscape offers diverse features, including the Appalachian Mountains in the east and the Ohio River forming the northern boundary, adding to its geographical appeal.

In addition to its natural beauty, Kentucky has a strong cultural identity, highlighted by its bourbon whiskey production, which is world-renowned. The state's distilleries craft some of the finest spirits in the world, and bourbon plays a key role in its economy. Kentucky’s rich heritage extends to its music, arts, and cuisine, which include bluegrass music and Southern-style dishes like fried chicken and bourbon-infused specialties. The state's combination of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural landscapes makes it a unique and captivating place to live and visit.

State Nickname of Kentucky

Kentucky Geography

Download maps of Kentucky

Kentucky's geography is diverse and visually striking, offering a mix of rolling hills, fertile plains, and rugged mountains. The state's Bluegrass Region, known for its rich, fertile soil, is famous for its pastures that are perfect for horse farming, making Kentucky the heart of the equine industry, including the world-renowned Kentucky Derby. In contrast, the Appalachian Plateau to the east presents a more rugged landscape, with steep mountains and valleys. Black Mountain, the highest peak in the state, rises within this region. Kentucky's northern border is defined by the Ohio River, which serves as an important route for transportation and trade.

Additionally, Kentucky is known for its extensive cave systems, with Mammoth Cave National Park being home to the longest known cave system in the world. This natural wonder, along with the state's varied terrain, contributes to Kentucky’s cultural identity and economic strengths. The fertile land of central Kentucky supports key agricultural products like tobacco, while the Bluegrass Region's equine industry thrives. The state's geography also plays a crucial role in its bourbon production, combining natural resources and a rich historical backdrop to define Kentucky’s unique place in the American landscape.

Kentucky Economy

Kentucky's economy is built on a diverse mix of manufacturing, agriculture, and services, each contributing significantly to the state's economic strength. Manufacturing is a major driver, particularly in industries such as automobile production, aerospace, and food processing. The state has become a key hub for automobile manufacturing, with several major car manufacturers having production facilities in Kentucky. Agriculture also plays a critical role, with Kentucky being known for its tobacco, soybeans, and especially its equine industry, which includes breeding, horse racing, and events like the Kentucky Derby.

The services sector, including healthcare, education, and tourism, also supports the state's economy, with Kentucky's cultural attractions like bourbon distilleries and national parks drawing visitors. The state is working to diversify its economy further by attracting investment in technology and renewable energy sectors, which are expected to drive future growth and job creation.

Kentucky at a Glance

Key facts about Kentucky covering taxes, cost of living, income, and climate.

Taxes

Kentucky levies a flat income tax rate of 4.00% on all taxable income. Residents carry an above-average overall tax burden of 10.20% of income, and the combined state and local sales tax averages a low 6.00%.

Overall Tax Burden

Income Tax:	4.00% (flat rate)
Overall Tax Burden:	10.20% of income
State Sales Tax:	6.00% (6.00% avg combined with local)
Property Tax Rate:	0.86% effective rate
Gas Tax:	28.70¢ per gallon
Estate Tax:	No

Cost of Living & Housing

Kentucky has a below-average cost of living, running about 7.1% cheaper than the national average. Housing is particularly affordable, with a median home price of $209,000.

Cost of Living Index

Cost of Living Index:	92.90 (US avg = 100)
Median Home Price:	$209,000
Median Monthly Rent:	$900/mo

Income & Employment

Kentucky's median household income of $57,459 is below the national average. The unemployment rate of 4.10% is near the national average, and the poverty rate of 15.80% is above the national average.

Median Household Income

Median Household Income:	$57,459
Minimum Wage:	$7.25/hr
Unemployment Rate:	4.10%
Poverty Rate:	15.80%

Climate

Kentucky is one of the cloudier states, averaging 93 sunny days per year. Winters are cool at 36.0°F in January, warming to 78.0°F in July, and the state receives moderate snowfall of about 13.00" per year.

Sunny Days / Year

Sunny Days / Year:	93 days
Avg January Temp:	36.0°F
Avg July Temp:	78.0°F
Annual Rainfall:	46.70"
Annual Snowfall:	13.00"

Demographics

Kentucky has a median age of 39.1, close to the national average. Population density is 114.0 people per square mile, and the population is broadly stable with 0.50% growth.

Median Age

Median Age:	39.1 years
Population Density:	114.0 per sq mi
Population Growth:	0.50% (last census)

Kentucky State Symbols