Kentucky , one of the so-called border states of the S central United States. It is bordered by West Virginia and Virginia (E); Tennessee (S); the Mississippi R., across which lies Missouri (SW); and Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, all across the Ohio R. (W, N). Kentucky is noted for the distilling of Bourbon whiskey and for the breeding of thoroughbred racehorses. Tobacco, in which Kentucky is second only to North Carolina among U.S. producers, has long been the state's chief crop, and it is also its chief farm product, followed by horses and mules, cattle, and corn. Dairy goods, hay, and soybeans are also important. Kentucky derives the greatest share of its income, however, from industry. Even Lexington, one of the world's largest loose-leaf tobacco markets, is industrialized. The state's chief manufactures include electrical equipment, food products, automobiles, nonelectrical machinery, chemicals, and apparel. Printing and publishing as well as tourism have become important industries. Kentucky is also one of the major U.S. producers of coal, the state's most valuable mineral; stone, petroleum, and natural gas are also extracted. When the Eastern seaboard of North America was being colonized in the 1600s, Kentucky was part of the inaccessible country beyond the mountains. After Robert Cavelier, sieur de La Salle, claimed all regions drained by the Mississippi and its tributaries for France, British interest in the area quickened. The first major expedition to the Tennessee region was led by Dr. Thomas Walker, who explored the eastern mountain region in 1750 for the Loyal Land Company. Walker was soon followed by hunters and scouts including Christopher Gist. Further exploration was interrupted by the last conflict (1754–63) of the French and Indian Wars between the French and British for control of North America, and Pontiac's Rebellion, a Native American uprising (1763–66).

The chief crop of the state is tobacco. Industry provides most of the income for Kentucky. A cost of living 11% below the national average makes Kentucky a great place to rent an apartment.

Kentucky is known for its bourbon and its thoroughbreds. The Kentucky Derby is the oldest continuously held horse race in the country. Kentucky has a geographical diversity that encompasses the mountains of the eastern Appalachians, the lakes and rivers in the western part of the state and the rolling hills of the Central Kentucky Bluegrass region. Whatever area of Kentucky you choose to live, apartment rentals can be found to suit any budget.

Beautiful state parks are considered to be the nations finest and provide endless opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, golfing, fishing, rock climbing, and swimming. Kentuckians enjoy world-class sporting events and more than 700 regional festivals. From horse racing to museums and opera, there is entertainment to suit every taste. There are also apartments to rent that will suit every taste from affordable to luxurious.

Kentucky has excellent colleges and universities. Murray State University is home to the National Scouting Museum. Moderately priced apartments for rent are available for students. The Kentucky Community and Technical College System has 61 campuses making it easily accessible for everyone in the state.