Introduction: Kentucky Download PDF
Kentucky lies in the east central United States and borders the Ohio River. Farming was the principal economic activity throughout the state’s early history, with tobacco and hemp as the main agricultural outputs. In the early 20th century, Kentucky began to take advantage of the large deposits of coal and abundance of hydroelectric power within the state. These two features brought low-cost energy and helped make the manufacturing industry the most important industry to the state’s economy.
Production of automobiles and automotive parts is the largest component of the manufacturing industry, followed by food processing and metals. Tourism is also a growing industry, thanks to the stunning scenery and southern charm. The state is also home to the Kentucky Derby, a famous horse race that draws more than 150,000 spectators annually and is considered by some as the most prestigious event in horseracing.
Government
Symbols
State Seal: |
State Quarter: |
Time Zones:
| Standard Time | GMT-5 | |
| Daylight-Saving Time | GMT-4 | |
Statistics
- Per Capita Real GDP :
- $30,364
- Population:
- 4,269,250
- Percent of People Under Poverty Level:
- 16.8%
- Per Capita Personal Income:
- $29,352
- Percent of Population with a Bachelor's Degree:
- 11.7%
- Total Exports:
- $19,616,300,000
Top 5 Export Partner Countries
Canada
Mexico
France
Japan
United Kingdom
Top 5 Export Merchandise
Chemicals Sales
Transportation Equipment Sales
Chemicals Manufacturing
Primary Metals Manufacturing
Machinery Manufacturing
Major Cities
Lexington-Fayette, Louisville, Owensboro
Major Airports
| Airport Name | City | |
| CVG | Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International | Covington |
| SDF | Louisville International-Standiford Field | Louisville |
Main Ports:
Louisville
Corporations
| Company | Fortune 1000 Rank: | Revenues ($millions) | Headquarter City |
| Humana | 110 | 21,417 | Louisville |
| Ashland | 248 | 10,007 | Covington |
| Yum Brands | 262 | 9,561 | Louisville |
| Omnicare | 353 | 6,493 | Covington |
| Lexmark International | 442 | 5,108 | Lexington |