Map of Owensboro, United States

Owensboro, located in the heart of Kentucky, is a city that beautifully blends its rich historical roots with modern-day charm. Known for its vibrant music scene, particularly bluegrass, Owensboro offers a unique cultural experience that attracts visitors from all over. The city is also a hub for the bourbon industry, contributing significantly to its local economy.

In recent years, Owensboro has seen a surge in development, with new businesses and industries setting up shop, making it an attractive destination for both tourists and new residents. The city's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing innovation makes it a standout location in Kentucky.

Climate
78.68
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Healthcare
39.58
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Traffic
89.24
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Property
2.33
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Pollution
50.36
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History and Culture

Owensboro's history dates back to the early 19th century when it was first settled. It played a significant role during the Civil War, serving as a strategic location due to its position along the Ohio River. Over the years, Owensboro has evolved from a small settlement into a bustling city, known for its contributions to the tobacco and bourbon industries.

Culturally, Owensboro is renowned for its deep-rooted connection to bluegrass music. The city hosts the annual ROMP Festival, which celebrates this genre and attracts music lovers from across the globe. Owensboro is also home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum, a testament to its musical heritage.

The city's cultural landscape is further enriched by its diverse population, which has brought a variety of traditions and cuisines to the area. Owensboro's local festivals, such as the International Bar-B-Q Festival, highlight this diversity and offer a taste of the city's vibrant community life.

Things to do in Owensboro

Visitors to Owensboro can explore a variety of attractions and activities. The Smothers Park, located along the Ohio River, offers beautiful views and a relaxing environment for families and individuals alike. It's a perfect spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying the outdoors.

For those interested in history and culture, the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art and the Owensboro Museum of Science and History provide insightful exhibits and educational programs. These institutions offer a glimpse into the city's artistic and scientific contributions.

Food enthusiasts will enjoy the local dining scene, particularly the famous Owensboro barbecue, which is a must-try. The city also hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the Owensboro Air Show and the Dazzling Daylily Festival, ensuring there's always something exciting happening.

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United States

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for the United States reflect how livable a city in United States is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Quality of Life Rankings

Weather in Owensboro

Owensboro, KY, United States experiences a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 47 inches (1194 mm), with May being the wettest month, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 58°F (14°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 58°F (14°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 58°F (14°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 58°F (14°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 5 inches (127 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during the summer months.
  • Rare but possible severe thunderstorms in spring and summer.
  • Minimal snowfall during winter, with occasional cold snaps.
Overall, Owensboro's climate offers a mix of hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, with moderate rainfall distributed throughout the year.

Owensboro's Political Climate

Conservative with emerging progressive elements

Owensboro, located in the state of Kentucky, United States, is a city with a dynamic political climate that reflects both its historical roots and modern aspirations. The city is governed by a mayor-council system, which allows for a balance of power between the executive and legislative branches. Owensboro's political landscape is characterized by a blend of conservative and progressive elements, with a strong emphasis on community values and economic development.

Historically, Owensboro has been a city that leans towards conservative political affiliations, largely influenced by the broader political trends of Kentucky. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards more progressive policies, particularly in areas such as environmental sustainability and social justice. The city has implemented several initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy sources, reflecting a growing commitment to environmental stewardship.

The political climate in Owensboro is also shaped by its economic priorities. The city has been focusing on attracting new businesses and fostering innovation, which has led to a more diversified economy. This economic growth has, in turn, influenced social policies, with increased investments in education and healthcare. Additionally, Owensboro has been active in addressing social issues, with local leaders advocating for policies that promote inclusivity and equality.

Recent political events in Owensboro have included local movements advocating for greater transparency in government and increased civic engagement. These movements have been instrumental in shaping the city's legislative agenda, with a focus on enhancing public services and improving infrastructure. The political engagement of Owensboro's residents is reflected in the high voter turnout during elections, indicating a community that is actively involved in shaping its future.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 65%
City Governance - Mayor-Council system
Composition - Majority conservative with a growing number of progressives
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on environmental policies and social justice initiatives
Engagement - High, with active community participation in local governance
Political Scorecard - B+ for governance and transparency
Legislative Priorities - Economic development, Environmental sustainability, Social justice and inclusivity
Public Opinion - Generally conservative with increasing support for progressive policies
Notable Political Figures
  • Tom Watson - Current Mayor of Owensboro known for his focus on economic development and community engagement.
  • Bob Glenn - City Commissioner advocating for transparency and environmental initiatives.
  • Pam Smith-Wright - Former City Commissioner and community leader focused on social justice and equality.
Owensboro

Quick Facts

Population
59,274
Median Age
38.5 yrs
Median Household Income
$47,800
Median Home Price
$147,000
Avg Rent Prices
$850
Unemployment Rate
4.2%
Avg commute time
18.5 mins
Avg High Temps
69° F
Avg Low Temps
47° F
Annual Rainfall
47 inches
Owensboro

"Key Takeaways"

Owensboro's economy is bolstered by the bourbon and tobacco industries, with ongoing growth in new sectors.

The city is a cultural hub for bluegrass music, hosting the annual ROMP Festival and housing the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum.

Owensboro offers a variety of attractions, from scenic parks to engaging museums, making it a vibrant place to visit or live.