A lamppost sign on a quaint street reads "Discover Downtown Nicholasville" with historic buildings in the background.
Home | Live Here | Explore Greater LEX | Jessamine County

Jessamine County

Historic. Connected. Adventuresome.

With a diverse lifestyle and a population of just over 55,000, Jessamine County offers practicality with unexpected delights. Whether you seek small-town charm or the amenities of Kentucky’s 10th largest city, you’ll find affordable housing, safe neighborhoods and quality schools here.

Explore historic landmarks like Camp Nelson, or embrace rugged adventure and scenic beauty across the county. Engage in monthly and annual events that bring the community together. Plus, with one of the shortest drives to Lexington, Jessamine County provides a perfect balance of connectivity, recreation and livability.

Quick Links
Grapes on a tree in a vineyard.
1st

Commercial Vineyard in America

First Vineyard Winery
A seated crowd enjoys an outdoor music performance.
55,017

Total Population in Jessamine County

U.S. Census Bureau
College graduates throw their caps into the air.
#31

Best Regional Universities South (Asbury University)

U.S. News & World Report, 2025

Perfectly Positioned for Life

Two people drink wine together.

Jessamine County delivers the best of both worlds — small-town charm with big-city access. Just south of Lexington, the county is connected by US Route 27 and 68, with Blue Grass Airport only 20 minutes away and major hubs like Louisville and Cincinnati airports just over an hour’s drive. The quaint town of Wilmore (population 6,000) and the bustling city of Nicholasville (population 30,000) offer diverse living options to suit any lifestyle.

With a cost of living 13% below the national average, safe neighborhoods, and top-ranked schools, Jessamine County is the perfect place to plant roots and build a future. It’s also one of Kentucky’s fastest-growing counties, offering a quality of life that blends rural beauty with urban convenience.

Here, history and recreation thrive. Explore Camp Nelson National Monument, sip local flavors at First Vineyard Winery, or enjoy seasonal events and outdoor adventures throughout the county. Employers like McLane and Alltech create strong career opportunities, while Lexington’s job market is just minutes away.

The Heart of Jessamine County

An airplane on a tarmac.

As the county seat and largest city (population 30,000), Nicholasville blends community energy with modern convenience. Its walkable downtown features local shops, dining, and farmers markets, while events like the Jessamine Juneteenth Celebration bring residents together year-round.

Nicholasville is also a destination for horse enthusiasts, home to renowned horse farms like Taylor Made. With affordable housing, strong schools, and nearby healthcare at CHI Saint Joseph Hospital Jessamine, it offers an ideal mix of comfort and connection.

Its location makes it a commuter-friendly hub — only minutes from Lexington’s employers, shopping, and entertainment, while still maintaining the charm of a close-knit community.

Affordable, Safe and Full of Opportunity

Four friends sit at a bar.

Charming, Scenic, and Connected. Nestled just six miles from Nicholasville, Wilmore (population 6,000) is perfect for those who value community and the outdoors. High Bridge Park delivers breathtaking views of the Kentucky River Gorge, where kayaking and canoeing under the historic High Bridge create unforgettable experiences.

Wilmore is also an educational hub. Wilmore Elementary is the county’s top-ranked elementary school, and Asbury University — a nationally ranked private Christian institution — offers 75+ programs and a 97% post-graduation success rate, drawing students from across the region.

With its peaceful, picturesque setting and quick access to Lexington via US 27, Wilmore offers a lifestyle that balances serenity, opportunity, and adventure.

Discover More of Greater LEX

Explore Greater LEX

Take our community quiz to find your perfect place among the many vibrant communities in Greater LEX.

Take the Quiz

Cost of Living

Get more for less in Greater LEX. Compare your current cost of living to potential savings when you relocate here.

Find Savings

Housing

A range of living options are available in Greater LEX, from townhouses and condos to single-family homes with appreciating values.

Search Housing