Largest cities in Kentucky

Kentucky, known for its horse racing and rich cultural heritage, is a state with a diverse range of living environments. With a population of approximately 4.5 million, it ranks as the 26th most populated state in the U.S. Kentucky has experienced steady population growth, reflecting its appealing living conditions and economic opportunities. Bordered by Indiana and Ohio to the north, West Virginia to the east, Virginia and Tennessee to the south, and Missouri and Illinois to the west, Kentucky offers a variety of urban and rural living environments across its roughly 420 cities and towns.

Living in Kentucky provides residents with numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, beautiful landscapes, and a rich cultural scene. The state's moderate population density allows for vibrant community life and ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Kentucky's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare. The state's steady population growth supports sustainable development and economic stability. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Kentucky, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Kentucky cities by population, showcasing the state's most significant urban centers.

Louisville Population: 618,733 Livability Score: 66

Area Size: 683 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,351 Med. Household Income: $54,929

Louisville, KY, known as 'The Derby City,' offers a unique blend of Southern charm and cultural richness. Located in northern Kentucky, Louisville is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Lexington and Cincinnati enhance its status as a central point in the region. Louisville's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Lexington-Fayette Population: 322,200 Livability Score: 87

Area Size: 735 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,136 Med. Household Income: $58,954

Lexington-Fayette, KY, known as 'The Horse Capital of the World,' offers a unique blend of equestrian heritage and urban amenities. Located in central Kentucky, Lexington-Fayette is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Louisville and Cincinnati enhance its status as a central point in the region. Lexington-Fayette's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Bowling Green Population: 71,628 Livability Score: 64

Area Size: 100 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,773 Med. Household Income: $42,044

Owensboro Population: 59,796 Livability Score: 70

Area Size: 53 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,895 Med. Household Income: $46,193

Covington Population: 40,466 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 34 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,066 Med. Household Income: $46,035

Richmond Population: 35,744 Livability Score: 68

Area Size: 59 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,759 Med. Household Income: $39,329

Georgetown Population: 34,362 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 43 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,023 Med. Household Income: $66,972

Florence Population: 32,721 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 28 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,058 Med. Household Income: $60,018

Hopkinsville Population: 31,052 Livability Score: 64

Area Size: 82 KM² Density (sq mi): 976 Med. Household Income: $39,743

Nicholasville Population: 30,549 Livability Score: 65

Area Size: 36 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,067 Med. Household Income: $54,575

Full list of the largest cities in Kentucky

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Louisville	618,733	683	$54,929	66
2	Lexington-Fayette	322,200	735	$58,954	87
3	Bowling Green	71,628	100	$42,044	64
4	Owensboro	59,796	53	$46,193	70
5	Covington	40,466	34	$46,035	85
6	Richmond	35,744	59	$39,329	68
7	Georgetown	34,362	43	$66,972	78
8	Florence	32,721	28	$60,018	76
9	Hopkinsville	31,052	82	$39,743	64
10	Nicholasville	30,549	36	$54,575	65
11	Elizabethtown	30,179	71	$47,270	70
12	Henderson	28,469	41	$40,360	74
13	Independence	28,119	45	$79,929	70
14	Jeffersontown	27,933	26	$70,951	79
15	Frankfort	27,705	38	$50,602	72
16	Paducah	24,947	52	$39,061	67
17	Radcliff	22,796	34	$45,463	60
18	Ashland	20,449	28	$42,639	64
19	Murray	19,254	30	$31,827	60
20	Erlanger	19,106	22	$70,589	71
21	Madisonville	18,801	46	$43,193	72
22	Winchester	18,520	23	$43,415	59
23	Burlington	18,203	23	$86,651	75
24	St. Matthews	18,022	11	$67,105	87
25	Danville	16,801	44	$42,068	75
26	Fort Thomas	16,335	15	$80,549	91
27	Shelbyville	16,244	21	$65,986	73
28	Berea	15,773	43	$44,357	73
29	Shively	15,723	12	$41,455	78
30	Newport	15,045	7	$39,335	83
31	Mount Washington	14,699	24	$74,817	68
32	Glasgow	14,394	41	$37,479	76
33	Fort Campbell North	14,363	13	$40,151	61
34	Shepherdsville	13,757	38	$64,798	71
35	Bardstown	13,169	31	$52,604	70
36	Somerset	11,548	29	$27,739	66
37	Lyndon	11,451	9	$58,538	77
38	Lawrenceburg	11,416	16	$49,328	63
39	Campbellsville	11,370	19	$40,705	76
40	Mayfield	9,823	18	$36,485	64
41	Paris	9,776	20	$41,234	66
42	Alexandria	9,600	18	$83,923	84
43	Oakbrook	9,539	8	$80,366	70
44	Francisville	9,520	22	$123,338	68
45	Versailles	9,251	16	$46,922	73
46	Middlesborough	9,242	19	$29,114	58
47	Hillview	9,066	16	$56,523	65
48	La Grange	8,938	19	$69,655	74
49	Franklin	8,909	37	$45,983	63
50	Fort Knox	8,865	53	$63,119	65

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Kentucky, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.