Lexington named among top 100 best places to live in the US this year. Here’s why
Lexington was recently recognized in a top 100 list for the best places to live in the U.S. in 2026 by online publication Livability, which ranks small- to medium-sized cities.
To compile the ranking, Livability considered economic data, cost of living, amenities, walkability, environment, safety, education and health to score the cities, including about 100 data points in total. The publication cited “a variety of public and private data” as sources, including the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. Postal Service, satellite imagery, business establishment files and more.
“Surrounded by 450 world-famous horse farms, Lexington’s identity is tied to its green spaces, but its soul lies in its downtown — full of bourbon distilleries, historic architecture and an unmatched arts scene,” the analysis reads.
Livability notes the list is not a ranked from 1 to 100, but the publication does provide a “LivScore” for each city. Lexington landed in 71st place with a score of 677.
Lexington particularly stood out for its relatively affordable cost of living, being home to the University of Kentucky, highly ranked Fayette County Public Schools, numerous public parks and more. The city performed well for education, transportation, amenities and the economy.
Lexington was the only Kentucky city to make Livability’s top 100 list. Carmel, Ind., and Clarksville, Tenn., were among the nearest cities to make the cut.
“Lexington’s signature trademark has always been its quality of life,” Mayor Linda Gorton wrote in an emailed statement to the Herald-Leader. “We take pride in being a safe city where everyone can feel at home. We have a strong economy and low cost of living. Our vibrant city is surrounded by the exquisite Bluegrass countryside. Lexington is a place where opportunity and comfort live side by side.”
What made Lexington stand out?
Livability lauded Lexington for the “rare lifestyle” it offers residents, with its combination of Bluegrass pastures and urban downtown.
Here’s how the city scored in eight quality-of-life metrics, according to Livability:
- Amenities: 68 out of 100
- Education: 66
- Health: 61
- Safety: 52
- Economy: 67
- Environment: 56
- Housing & cost of living: 56
- Transportation: 83
Lexington performed well for cost of living, with a median home value of $300,042 and an average household income of $70,463. Livability also commended health care options in Lexington, with UK’s Albert B. Chandler Hospital and Baptist Health Lexington, which have both received recognition from various rating organizations.
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