The region’s vibrant communities, thriving industries, and rich cultural heritage come together to create an environment that is ripe for successful business growth and opportunity, making it the ideal destination for businesses to locate and flourish.
Population 25+ with a bachelor's degree or higher
US population within 600 miles
Prime-age Labor Force Participation Rate
Positioned at the crossroads of Interstates 75 and 64, connecting you to two-thirds of the U.S. population within a day's drive.
Greater Lexington's abundance of higher education institutions produces a well-educated workforce and fuels the economy.
Enjoy a welcoming and progressive community amidst scenic landscapes, vibrant culture, and world-class amenities, promising a quality of life like no other.
Kentucky’s capital city, Frankfort, a stone’s throw from Lexington, Louisville and Cincinnati, provides businesses outstanding access to air, waterways, rail and highways with its prime location. Home to the State Capitol, Kentucky State University, a unique riverside downtown and award-winning distilleries like Buffalo Trace and Jim Beam, Frankfort’s ideal placement, burgeoning industry and rich history make it prime for both startups and established endeavors alike.
Located just north of the I-75 and I-64 crossroads, Georgetown is a thriving community known for its world-class automotive manufacturing and renowned equine businesses. Home to Toyota Motor Manufacturing and Georgetown College, Georgetown's strong infrastructure, excellent education, and expanding manufacturing and retail development allow it to shine as a state business leader.
Paris, just 17 miles north of Lexington, is one of Kentucky’s original nine counties and the seat of Bourbon County. A global Thoroughbred horse breeding leader with nearly 50 farms, including the renowned Claiborne Farm, Paris offers a mix of equestrian heritage, modern amenities, healthcare, and recreational resources. Conveniently located near two major interstates, it’s the center of a 34-state distribution area, providing excellent opportunities for businesses to thrive.
Located at the crossroads of I-64 and I-75, Lexington-Fayette is strategically positioned at the center of a distribution area covering 34 states. It’s also within 600 miles of two-thirds of the nation’s manufacturing facilities, personal income, and population. The city’s diverse economy, combined with its proximity to Louisville and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airports, have earned the city national acclaim — in fact, Business Facilities ranked Lexington as the #7 mid-sized metro with the best business climate in 2023.
Nestled in the Bluegrass Region, Woodford County blends history with progress. Midway, a picturesque city consistently named one of Kentucky’s best small towns, was built by the Lexington and Ohio Railroad in 1831. It is home to Midway University and is known for its scenic beauty, diverse dining options, and proactive community planning. Nearby, Versailles, the historic seat of Woodford County, is located between Frankfort and Lexington. Known for its 19th century architecture and roots in bourbon distilling and horse racing, Versailles' economy has grown to include diverse businesses. Strategically located in Central Kentucky, Woodford County is an ideal hub for manufacturing and distribution, within a day's drive of two-thirds of the U.S. population.
Mt. Sterling, with a population of 7,000 in a county of 28,000, offers a unique blend of big-city amenities and rural advantages. Located just 29 miles east of Lexington and I-75, the community boasts a strong work ethic, moderate land and building prices, and low turnover rates. Founded in 1792, Mt. Sterling is steeped in history and hosts Kentucky's oldest festival, Court Days, each October.
Just east of Lexington in the midst of Daniel Boone country, Winchester offers unique small-town culture and economic opportunities including rail served sites. Its vibrant downtown features remarkable 19th-century architecture that now houses businesses, restaurants, artisans and shops. Known for innovations like Ale-8-One soda and Beer Cheese, Winchester hosts numerous annual events that foster strong community spirit, which also contribute to its business-forward atmosphere.
Located just two miles outside Lexington, Nicholasville is Kentucky's seventh fastest-growing city. With its thriving economy and recently classified "Opportunity Zone" industrial park, which contains more than 200 acres of industrial-zoned land, Nicholasville is primed for growth. The park's location near the Blue Grass Airport and major interstates, coupled with the county's top-notch schools and competitive property values, make it an attractive destination for companies seeking to invest and expand.
Madison County, located on the I-75 corridor south of Lexington, is home to Richmond and Berea, two thriving cities with exceptional market access, reaching 2/3rds of the U.S. population within 600 miles. As a Kentucky "Work Ready" Community and home of Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond benefits from a skilled workforce. With affordable business costs, high living standards, a robust job market, and room for expansion, Richmond is primed for economic growth. Berea, known as the "Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky," is situated off I-75 and is home to the Kentucky Artisan Center and Berea College. The city prioritizes economic development, workforce training, and education, fostering a supportive environment for success.
Explore the strategic advantages of Greater Lexington for your business relocation. From prime location to a diverse talent pool, vibrant economy, and exceptional quality of life, unlock the opportunities that await in our thriving region.
While Lexington serves as the Greater Lexington Region’s urban center, the area’s entrepreneurial strength lies in city’s collaborative relationship with its nine surrounding counties. Together, these diverse areas provide lucrative business opportunities across a variety of industries.
Whether you’re coming here to live, work, start a business, or play, you’ll find Central Kentucky full of charm and hospitality.
Utilizing a variety of databases, partnerships, and experience, Commerce Lexington can provide you the information you need to make strategic business decisions.
Explore the strategic advantages of Greater Lexington for your business relocation. From prime location to a diverse talent pool, vibrant economy, and exceptional quality of life, unlock the opportunities that await in our thriving region.
While Lexington serves as the Greater Lexington Region’s urban center, the area’s entrepreneurial strength lies in city’s collaborative relationship with its nine surrounding counties. Together, these diverse areas provide lucrative business opportunities across a variety of industries.
Whether you’re coming here to live, work, start a business, or play, you’ll find Central Kentucky full of charm and hospitality.
Utilizing a variety of databases, partnerships, and experience, Commerce Lexington can provide you the information you need to make strategic business decisions.
Commerce Lexington Inc.’s Minority Business Development program promotes economic growth and self-sufficiency among minority entrepreneurs in the Lexington area through integration into the local economy and vital business referral services.
Commerce Lexington’s economic development team focuses not only on attracting new businesses but also on supporting and promoting the growth of existing businesses in Greater Lexington, providing comprehensive services and serving as a dedicated convener for the local business community.
As the Plant Manager of the J.M. Smucker Company and our Jif manufacturing facility in Lexington, KY, I can attest to the business’ success in this city since the 1950s. Lexington's rich agricultural heritage, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment have been pivotal to our success. The community's unwavering support, coupled with the city's strategic location and robust infrastructure, have enabled us to grow and thrive over the years.
Sanjay Chitnis
Plant Manager
Sanjay Chitnis
Lakeshore was drawn to Central Kentucky by its wonderful sense of community and the state’s rich history of supporting families, education, and businesses like ours.
Bo Kaplan
Executive Chairman
Bo Kaplan
Whether you're launching a new venture or expanding an existing business, Lexington provides the resources and connections you need to thrive. The region’s scenic beauty, cultural attractions, and Southern charm make it a place you'll be proud to call home. Greater Lexington offers the perfect blend of professional opportunities and quality of life.
KR Schomp
President
KR Schomp
“As Chief Technology Officer of Funai Microfluidic Solutions, relocating the microfluidics business unit from our Japanese headquarters to Lexington was a strategic decision reinforced by the city's exceptional research and development ecosystem. Lexington provides Funai access to top-tier research institutions and a highly skilled workforce, enabling innovation in our thermal inkjet microfluidics for specialty printing, life sciences, and consumer applications. The collaborative business environment and strong support from the local community have enabled our company to thrive.
Mike Marra
Chief Technology Officer
Mike Marra
The technologies behind our high-performance robotic assembly lines were forged here including: Agile3D™ Robot Guidance and Airbot™ clean assembly. The city's prime location along the I-75 corridor with excellent highway, rail, air freight hub, and power generation infrastructure ensure fast, economical transportation and low-cost utilities. A strong talent pipeline from local universities, particularly the University of Kentucky, bolsters operations. Lexington's vibrant manufacturing ecosystem, with its Toyota-influenced focus on process discipline and quality, is fueling our current expansion to further serve the electric vehicle and medical device markets.
Jim Peyton
President
Jim Peyton
The city's dynamic business mix, coupled with a strong sense of innovation and spirit, provides the perfect backdrop for our agency to succeed. But most importantly, the local businesses and community members in Lexington have been invaluable partners in our growth. We are grateful to be a part of such a robust and supportive ecosystem in Lexington.
Christy Hiler
Chief Executive Officer & Owner
Christy Hiler
Relocation to Lexington, Kentucky ensures a strategic hub with prime location, skilled workforce, and vibrant business ecosystem — for unparalleled growth and success.
Not surprisingly, we believe Greater Lexington is one of the best places in the world. The numbers speak to the region’s success as a place to start or relocate a business, raise a family, or just enjoy life.
There are an abundance of site and building opportunities across the Greater Lexington Region.
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