When I first heard about Lexington, I honestly thought, 'Isn't there hardly any Koreans there?'

It's not like LA, Atlanta, or New York, where there are Korean towns, nor is there an H-Mart. However, once you start living there, that simplicity actually becomes a strength. Here are some reasons why Lexington is surprisingly a good place for Koreans to live.

The first reason is the cost of living. The cost of living in Lexington is relatively low compared to the national average. The median home price is around $330,000, which is at least two to three times less than similar homes in LA, New York, or Seattle. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $900 to $1,400, which is significantly cheaper than in major cities.

Utilities and grocery costs are also generally lower, allowing for a much more comfortable lifestyle on the same income. Healthcare costs and insurance premiums are also relatively affordable in Kentucky. If you work at the University of Kentucky (UK) or within the local healthcare system, you can receive relatively stable healthcare benefits.

The second reason is the educational environment. Lexington has one of the best public school districts in Kentucky (Fayette County Public Schools). For Korean families with children, there are prestigious public high schools like Lafayette, Paul Laurence Dunbar, and Henry Clay to aim for.

There are also plenty of private options, such as Sayre School, Lexington Christian Academy, and Lexington Catholic. With the University of Kentucky located downtown, there are opportunities for college admissions and transfers, and even if your English isn't perfect, you can start with an associate degree program through BCTC. The UK Korean Studies program and Korean language courses are also available, supporting interest in Korean culture to some extent.

The third reason is healthcare accessibility. Lexington is home to UK Healthcare, which has been ranked the number one university hospital in Kentucky for seven consecutive years, as well as major healthcare institutions like Baptist Health and Saint Joseph Healthcare. This is a great reassurance for seniors and families who prioritize health care. Considering that many Korean families in larger cities often have to travel long distances for specialized medical care, Lexington's healthcare accessibility is actually a strong point.

The fourth reason is that the Korean community, while small, is cohesive. Korean Presbyterian and Korean Disciples Methodist churches regularly hold Korean worship services, Korean schools, and community events. The Lexington Korean School currently operates with about 40 registered students, making it easy for Korean families in similar situations to share information and form networks. In fact, because the community is small, newcomers quickly get to know each other, creating a supportive atmosphere.

The fifth reason is the natural environment and quality of life. The picturesque scenery of the Bluegrass region, the trails at Raven Run, Jacobson Park, and the extensive park system provide great enjoyment for those who love outdoor activities. Traffic congestion is almost nonexistent compared to major cities like LA, resulting in relatively low commuting stress. Louisville, Cincinnati, and Nashville are all within a two-hour drive, providing some access to larger cities.

Lexington is a city that suits those who prefer affordable living costs, a stable educational environment, and a relaxed pace of life, rather than those seeking a perfect Korean living infrastructure. If you desperately need Korean ingredients, you may have to drive to Columbus or Cincinnati, but aside from that, there is surprisingly a lot available.