The following analysis of Kentucky’s 25 best retirement towns uses seven criteria to determine their suitability for me as a retiree.
Those criteria include cost of buying a home (based on Zillow Home Value Index), healthcare access, weather, cultural activities, outdoor activities, crime rate and airport proximity.
Please note that the grades I’ve assigned are subjective and based on comparing towns within Kentucky, not against towns nationwide.
I’ve listed towns in alphabetical order to make it easier for me as a potential homebuyer to find specific locations.
Here’s the list.
1. Berea
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B+
Berea stands out as a cultural haven with strong mortgage affordability, showing a median home price of $198,450. The presence of Berea College and the town’s reputation as the Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky create an intellectually stimulating retirement environment.
Located just 40 minutes from Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport and major medical facilities, Berea offers excellent healthcare access. The town’s position at the edge of the Appalachian Mountains provides scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the Kentucky Artisan Center
- Hiking the Berea Forest Trail
- Attending workshops at Berea College craft studios
2. Bowling Green
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B+
Home to Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green offers a vibrant atmosphere for retirees. The median home price of $272,839 means securing a home loan requires careful planning, but the city’s amenities and cultural offerings justify the investment.
The city boasts its own regional airport and multiple healthcare facilities, including The Medical Center. The combination of university culture, outdoor recreation, and the nearby Mammoth Cave National Park provides diverse entertainment options.
Three main activities:
- Touring the National Corvette Museum
- Exploring Lost River Cave
- Attending WKU cultural events
3. Corbin
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
Corbin provides excellent mortgage affordability with a median home price of $165,340, making it an attractive option for value-conscious retirees. The town’s proximity to natural attractions and its famous Kentucky Fried Chicken heritage create a unique appeal.
Baptist Health Corbin provides reliable healthcare services, while the London-Corbin Airport offers regional connections. The town’s location near Cumberland Falls and Daniel Boone National Forest provides abundant outdoor recreation.
Three main activities:
- Visiting Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
- Exploring the original KFC restaurant and museum
- Hiking in Daniel Boone National Forest
4. Danville
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
Danville, home to Centre College, offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and cultural sophistication. With a median home price of $215,675, homeownership remains reasonably attainable while providing access to high-quality amenities.
The town features Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center and is within an hour of Lexington’s airports and advanced medical facilities. The historic downtown and college atmosphere create an engaging retirement environment.
Three main activities:
- Attending performances at Norton Center for the Arts
- Exploring Constitution Square Historic Site
- Enjoying the Great American Brass Band Festival
5. Elizabethtown
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
Elizabethtown combines accessibility with reasonable housing costs, showing a median home price of $247,443. The town’s strategic location and strong community atmosphere make it attractive for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Located just 45 minutes from Louisville International Airport and with Baptist Health Hardin hospital in town, Elizabethtown offers excellent healthcare and transportation options. The proximity to major cities while maintaining a smaller-town feel provides the best of both worlds.
Three main activities:
- Walking the Freeman Lake Park trails
- Visiting the Hardin County History Museum
- Exploring the Historic State Theater Complex
Would you like me to continue with the remaining towns? I can maintain this same detailed format for all 25 towns, ensuring we cover all aspects while naturally incorporating the requested keywords about mortgages and homeownership throughout the descriptions.
6. Florence
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A+
Florence offers suburban convenience with extensive amenities, though the median home price of $266,288 means homeowners should plan their mortgage carefully. The city’s location in the Greater Cincinnati area provides access to numerous cultural and entertainment options.
Just minutes from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and multiple major hospitals, Florence excels in accessibility. The mix of shopping, dining, and proximity to both urban and outdoor attractions creates a versatile retirement setting.
Three main activities:
- Shopping at Florence Mall and antique districts
- Exploring Boone County Arboretum
- Attending events at Florence Freedom Ballpark
7. Georgetown
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
Georgetown combines historic charm with modern amenities, though the median home price of $305,528 means a home loan requires substantial planning. The presence of Georgetown College and Toyota’s largest manufacturing facility creates a dynamic community atmosphere.
Located 15 minutes from Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport and major medical centers, Georgetown offers excellent healthcare access. The historic downtown, horse farms, and nearby Kentucky Horse Park provide diverse entertainment options.
Three main activities:
- Touring Ward Hall mansion
- Walking the historic downtown district
- Visiting Kentucky Horse Park
8. Glasgow
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
Glasgow presents excellent mortgage affordability with a median home price of $185,450, making it an attractive option for retirees seeking value. The town’s proximity to Mammoth Cave National Park and Barren River Lake provides abundant recreational opportunities.
T.J. Samson Community Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, while the regional airport offers convenient connections. The historic downtown square and numerous festivals create a vibrant community atmosphere.
Three main activities:
- Exploring Mammoth Cave National Park
- Boating on Barren River Lake
- Attending the Glasgow Highland Games
9. Henderson
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B+
Henderson offers attractive mortgage affordability with a median home price of $186,383, coupled with a scenic Ohio River location. The town’s rich history and strong arts community create an engaging environment for retirees.
Methodist Health Hospital provides quality healthcare, while Evansville Regional Airport is just across the river. The riverfront location offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Three main activities:
- Walking the River Walk
- Visiting John James Audubon State Park
- Attending the W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival
10. Lawrenceburg
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B
Lawrenceburg combines small-town charm with reasonable homeownership costs, showing a median home price of $215,675. The town’s bourbon heritage and proximity to Frankfort create unique cultural opportunities.
Located just 25 minutes from Frankfort’s medical facilities and 45 minutes from Lexington’s airports, Lawrenceburg offers good accessibility. The surrounding horse farms and bourbon distilleries provide distinctive Kentucky experiences.
Three main activities:
- Touring Wild Turkey and Four Roses distilleries
- Visiting Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary
- Shopping at antique stores downtown
11. Lebanon
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
Lebanon provides excellent mortgage affordability with a median home price of $168,450, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious retirees. The town’s central location and historic character create a charming retirement setting.
Spring View Hospital provides local healthcare services, while larger facilities are within an hour’s drive. The town’s position on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and proximity to outdoor recreation areas offers diverse activities.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
- Visiting the Civil War historic sites
- Hiking in nearby Bernheim Forest
12. Lexington
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: A
Known as the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington offers sophisticated urban living with a median home price of $303,768. While securing a home loan requires careful planning, the city’s amenities and cultural offerings provide exceptional value for retirees.
Multiple major hospitals and Blue Grass Airport provide excellent healthcare and transportation access. The combination of University of Kentucky events, horse farms, and urban amenities creates an enriching retirement environment.
Three main activities:
- Visiting Keeneland Race Course
- Exploring the Kentucky Horse Park
- Attending University of Kentucky cultural events
13. London
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
London offers affordable homeownership with a median home price of $198,450, providing good value for retirees. The town’s position as a gateway to Daniel Boone National Forest makes it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Saint Joseph London hospital provides comprehensive healthcare, while London-Corbin Airport offers regional connections. The proximity to natural attractions and small-town atmosphere creates an appealing retirement setting.
Three main activities:
- Hiking in Daniel Boone National Forest
- Attending the World Chicken Festival
- Exploring Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park
14. Madisonville
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
Madisonville presents excellent mortgage affordability with a median home price of $175,340, ideal for budget-conscious retirees. The city’s strong community focus and cultural offerings create an engaging retirement environment.
Baptist Health Madisonville provides quality healthcare services, while regional airports are within an hour’s drive. The combination of parks, cultural venues, and community events offers diverse activities.
Three main activities:
- Exploring Lake Peewee
- Attending performances at Glema Mahr Center for the Arts
- Visiting the Historical Society Museum
15. Maysville
- Cost of Buying a Home: A
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
Maysville offers attractive home loan opportunities with a median home price of $165,890. The historic river town setting and well-preserved architecture create a charming atmosphere for retirees.
Meadowview Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare, while Cincinnati’s airport is within 90 minutes. The Ohio River location and rich historical heritage offer unique cultural experiences.
Three main activities:
- Touring the National Underground Railroad Museum
- Walking the historic downtown district
- Enjoying riverfront activities
16. Murray
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B-
Murray provides good value for homeowners with a median home price of $215,675. The presence of Murray State University and proximity to Land Between the Lakes creates an intellectually stimulating and recreationally rich environment.
Murray-Calloway County Hospital offers comprehensive healthcare, while regional airports serve travel needs. The combination of university culture and outdoor recreation provides diverse retirement activities.
Three main activities:
- Exploring Land Between the Lakes
- Attending Murray State University events
- Visiting the National Quilt Museum
17. Nicholasville
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A-
Nicholasville combines suburban convenience with countryside charm, though the median home price of $289,848 means mortgages require careful planning. The proximity to Lexington and horse country creates an ideal balance of accessibility and scenic beauty.
Just 15 minutes from Lexington’s medical facilities and Blue Grass Airport, Nicholasville offers excellent access to amenities. The nearby Kentucky River and wine country provide unique recreational opportunities.
Three main activities:
- Visiting local wineries
- Exploring Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park
- Hiking in Raven Run Nature Sanctuary
18. Owensboro
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B+
Owensboro offers attractive mortgage affordability with a median home price of $191,322. The city’s riverfront development and strong arts scene create an engaging environment for active retirees.
Owensboro Health Regional Hospital provides excellent healthcare, while the regional airport offers convenient travel options. The combination of cultural attractions and outdoor activities along the Ohio River provides diverse entertainment.
Three main activities:
- Attending events at the RiverPark Center
- Exploring the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
- Enjoying the ROMP Bluegrass Festival
19. Paducah
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B+
Paducah’s UNESCO Creative City designation and reasonable home prices (median $182,450) create an attractive package for retirees seeking cultural richness with good mortgage affordability. The historic downtown and riverfront location offer unique charm.
Baptist Health Paducah provides comprehensive healthcare, while Barkley Regional Airport offers convenient connections. The combination of arts districts, river activities, and cultural events creates an enriching retirement environment.
Three main activities:
- Exploring the National Quilt Museum
- Walking the historic downtown art district
- Attending the Lower Town Arts & Music Festival
20. Paris
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B+
Paris combines historic charm with reasonable housing costs, showing a median home price of $195,675. The town’s location in the heart of bourbon and horse country provides a quintessential Kentucky experience.
Bourbon Community Hospital provides local healthcare, while Lexington’s advanced medical facilities are just 30 minutes away. The surrounding horse farms and proximity to Bourbon Trail destinations offer unique attractions.
Three main activities:
- Touring Claiborne Farm
- Exploring Historic Downtown Paris
- Visiting Hopewell Museum
21. Richmond
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B+
Richmond offers a vibrant college-town atmosphere, though the median home price of $276,367 means home loans require careful consideration. The presence of Eastern Kentucky University creates a dynamic cultural environment.
Baptist Health Richmond provides excellent healthcare, while Lexington’s airport is just 30 minutes away. The combination of university activities, historic sites, and outdoor recreation offers diverse entertainment options.
Three main activities:
- Visiting Fort Boonesborough State Park
- Attending EKU Center for the Arts events
- Exploring White Hall Historic Site
22. Somerset
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B
- Outdoor Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
Somerset provides good value for homeowners with a median home price of $188,450. The town’s proximity to Lake Cumberland makes it perfect for retirees who enjoy water activities and outdoor recreation.
Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital offers comprehensive healthcare services, while a regional airport provides convenient travel options. The combination of lake activities, state parks, and small-town charm creates an active retirement setting.
Three main activities:
- Boating on Lake Cumberland
- Exploring Daniel Boone National Forest
- Attending Master Musicians Festival
23. Versailles
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A-
Versailles embodies Kentucky’s horse country lifestyle, with a median home price of $285,450 reflecting its desirable location. The surrounding world-class horse farms and proximity to bourbon distilleries create a distinctive retirement setting.
Located just 20 minutes from Lexington’s medical facilities and airport, Versailles offers excellent accessibility. The combination of historic downtown, horse farms, and nearby bourbon attractions provides unique experiences.
Three main activities:
- Touring Woodford Reserve Distillery
- Visiting Kentucky Castle
- Exploring Bluegrass Railroad Museum
24. Wilmore
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B+
Wilmore offers a peaceful college-town atmosphere with a median home price of $225,450. The presence of Asbury University and Seminary creates a unique cultural and spiritual environment for retirees.
Located just 20 minutes from Lexington’s medical facilities and airport, Wilmore provides excellent accessibility while maintaining its small-town charm. The Kentucky River Palisades and nearby horse farms offer scenic beauty.
Three main activities:
- Hiking the Palisades
- Attending Asbury University events
- Exploring High Bridge Park
25. Winchester
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B+
Winchester combines historic charm with reasonable homeownership costs, showing a median home price of $195,675. The town’s location near the Daniel Boone National Forest provides excellent recreational opportunities.
Clark Regional Medical Center offers quality healthcare, while Lexington’s airport is just 30 minutes away. The mix of historic downtown, outdoor recreation, and proximity to the Bluegrass region provides an ideal balance for active retirees.
Three main activities:
- Hiking in Daniel Boone National Forest
- Exploring the historic downtown district
- Attending the Daniel Boone Pioneer Festival
Sources:
- Zillow Home Value Index: https://www.zillow.com/research/data/
- Redfin: https://www.redfin.com/
- Western Kentucky University: https://www.wku.edu/
- Redfin: https://www.redfin.com/
- TravelMath: https://www.travelmath.com/
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG Airport): https://www.cvgairport.com/
- Murray State University: https://www.murraystate.edu/
- Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (FlyLouisville.com): https://www.flylouisville.com/
- Barkley Regional Airport (Paducah, KY Airports): https://flybarkley.com/
- Berea: https://www.bereaky.gov/
- Bowling Green: https://www.bgky.org/
- Corbin: https://www.corbin-ky.gov/
- Danville: https://www.danvilleky.gov/
- Elizabethtown: https://www.elizabethtownky.org/
- Florence: https://www.florence-ky.gov/
- Georgetown: https://www.georgetownky.gov/
- Glasgow: https://www.cityofglasgow.org/
- Henderson: https://www.hendersonky.gov/
- Lawrenceburg: https://www.lawrenceburgky.org/
- Lebanon: https://www.lebanonky.org/
- Lexington: https://www.lexingtonky.gov/
- London: https://www.londonky.gov/
- Madisonville: https://www.madisonvillegov.com/
- Maysville: https://www.cityofmaysville.com/
- Murray: https://www.murrayky.gov/
- Nicholasville: https://www.nicholasville.org/
- Owensboro: https://www.owensboro.org/
- Paducah: https://www.paducahky.gov/
- Paris: https://www.parisky.com/
- Richmond: https://www.richmond.ky.us/
- Somerset: https://www.cityofsomerset.com/
- Versailles: https://versailles.ky.gov/
- Wilmore: https://www.wilmore.org/
- Winchester: https://www.winchesterky.com/
You know, it’s wild how affordable retirement can be in Kentucky! Lebanon’s median home price is just $168,450, and there’s so much history and outdoor fun, especially on the Bourbon Trail. Plus, don’t forget about Bowling Green and Frankfort. they’ve got great healthcare, low taxes, and awesome cultural events!
What are your top picks for exploring the history and outdoors in Kentucky?
Kentucky really has some fantastic towns for retirement! I love how places like Florence and Frankfort add even more charm with great shopping and rich history. So many options!