In the Louisville, KY vs Lexington, KY battle of superiority in Kentucky, the winner isn't always straightforward. Of course, in certain areas, each city bests the other, but it all boils down to individual analysis and preference.
Both cities have the highest population in the state and have fantastic attractions that spark desirability among citizens relocating here. Whether you are looking to move over to the Bluegrass State or a Kentuckian trying to win an argument on which is the better city, let's give you a complete breakdown.
This article will consider which is better based on a few factors: population/desirability, cost of living, employment opportunities, education, and quality of life.
Let's get to it!
Demographics and Population
Louisville and Lexington's population and cultural diversity are some of their biggest differentiating factors. This is usually a major deal-breaker for people deciding which city to choose, especially for the younger generation.
In terms of population:
Louisville has the highest population in the Bluegrass State at 624,444 across its 150+ neighborhoods. In the last decade, the city has experienced a 5.97% growth due to increasing job opportunities, a better quality of life, and more modern, affordable housing.
Lexington follows behind as the next populous city in Kentucky, with a population of 320,347. However, the number of new residents over the last decade has been slightly shorter compared to Louisville. The strong economy, quality of life, and the equine industry are significant factors contributing to the growth.
In terms of diversity and cultural outlook:
Residents in Louisville are of a more diverse background based on the city's urban feel. The city boasts of cultures from African American, Asian, Hispanic, and European influences. Moreover, according to census data and the local movers Louisville has, a younger demographic fills the neighborhoods.
On the other hand, Lexington's diversity doesn't quite reach that of Louisville, even though there are various races and cultural traditions. Similar to Louisville, there's a mix in the age group; however, you will find fewer younger residents here.
Cost of Living
Living costs in both cities are almost similar when viewed generally, but there are clear-cut differences in specific categories.
On average, if you need $50,000 to live comfortably in Louisville, you will require about $47,624 to maintain the same living standards in Lexington—5% lower.
How does the real estate market play for both cities?
Housing costs
The Louisville, KY vs Lexington, KY, real estate battle is one of those clear-cut differences between the two cities—housing costs are 3.4% lower in Lexington. While they both offer an array of properties, Louisville residents have more modern housing units to pick from.
Louisville is more of an urban city than Lexington, and in the metro area, you will find high-rise condos, exquisite apartments, and international-type housing designs.
Residents in Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World, still have ranch-style homes with brick exteriors and charming horse farms. While it's a city, Lexington has a suburban feel and plenty of rural heritage.
Utilities and transportation expenses
Just like the price of housing in Lexington is averagely higher, residents in Lexington are also subject to a 1% increase in utility bills compared to their fellow Kentuckians in Louisville.
Things begin to show changes in transportation bills and the payment of goods and services across both cities. Lexington's transport bills are 10% less expensive than in Louisville.
Healthcare
While the average cost of visiting the hospital and getting drugs in the Bluegrass State is lower than the national standard, Lexington's locals pay almost the highest in Kentucky.
Both cities have good medical care facilities, but Lexington ranks slightly higher than Louisville. On average, healthcare services cost 3% more in Lexington compared to Louisville.
Here's a breakdown of the median fees:
Employment Opportunities
Whether you are coming here to school or relocating with your family, employment opportunities should always be a deciding factor for a new place.
The truth about both cities is that there are a plethora of career paths to follow, although the sectors might be quite different. However, Lexington residents have been subject to higher salaries than the average local in Louisville by 16%.
Major industries and employers in Louisville
It might not be the state's capital, but Louisville is the largest city and has solidified itself as the commercial hub in Kentucky. The city of Louisville has strong ties in large-scale businesses as well as in the finance industry.
However, if you are looking for good employment here, the major employers here are in the technology, healthcare, and medical science industries.
Major industries and employers in Lexington
The Horse Capital of the World, as it is famously called, has many job openings for those with an equestrian lifestyle. Lexington has a knack for entrepreneurship amongst its residents, but it still ranks high and is famous for its diverse employment opportunities.
Of course, working in the equestrian farms takes center stage in the city, but there are other major employers of labor: the manufacturing industry and small locally-owned shops.
Education
Here's the thing: both Louisville and Lexington have great public schools to earn a degree. However, where one city might get the edge over the other is the presence of the best University in the state on its grounds—the University of Kentucky in Lexington.
Based on ratings, course diversity, and academic excellence, here's a side-by-side list of the top universities and colleges in Louisville and Lexington.
Quality Of Life
This is one of the major reasons why anyone, especially families and retirees, chooses any city.
Louisville and Lexington offer above-average quality of life for their residents, but one city tends to stand out better.
Factors like crime rate and areas of attraction have been taken into account to ascertain which city is the better in this category.
Area of attraction
For outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of parks, it's pretty much based on preference on which has the better attractions for you.
For instance, the museums and the famous Kentucky Derby in Louisville are fan favorites for tourists. Then, there's Lexington's equestrian heritage and numerous parks for relaxation.
Other major sites and places to visit in both cities include:
The make-or-break moment: which city is safer? Crime ratings in any city are easily determined based on two factors: violent crimes and property crimes.
On average, Lexington is the safer city and has fewer reported crimes than Louisville. Your chances of falling victim to either crime in Louisville are 1 in 27. Meanwhile, Lexington is slightly safer at 1 in 31.
Per 1,000 residents, the average number of reported cases is:
Summary—The Better City
While it's quite obvious based on stats which city is better in the Louisville, KY vs. Lexington, KY battle, personal biases can make anyone like any city.
The truth is Lexington is among the top 100 livable cities in the U.S., and it ranks better than Louisville. It scores higher in safety and education and has a lower living cost index.
If you prefer to live in a more urban settlement, Louisville is the go-to place. However, if the allure of urban civilization does not matter much to you and you find yourself in tune with equestrian living, Lexington should be your bus stop.
