The U-Haul Growth Index works as an annual rating capable of analyzing one-way customer transactions, and over time has become a reasonable measure of growth in various states and cities.
Specifically, it evaluates the net gain or loss of customers renting U-Haul trucks, trailers and moving containers, providing insights into migration trends across the United States and Canada.
It should be no surprise, then, that Kentucky climbed eight spots to rank 17th nationwide in this 2025 index, and many state and regional leaders have pointed to lower taxes and expanding economic activity as key drivers.
After meeting specific growth triggers and appropriation benchmarks elsewhere, the General Assembly recently reduced the state’s personal income tax to 3.5%, placing Kentucky among the lowest-taxed states in the country.
The goal, however, is to zero out this tax, and local officials say these changes are already translating into population and development growth, particularly in south western Kentucky, where Elkton has become the third-fastest-growing small city in the state.
Todd County Judge Executive Todd Mansfield noted they are already experiencing positive growth as a result of significant industrial and residential development. New residents, he added, are taking advantage of “lower prices, lower property taxes and a lower state income tax.”
Jerry Gilliam, Christian County judge-executive, said it was a plus this region boasts no local sales taxes, and that statewide no sales tax on groceries and prescription drugs also pays dividends.
Christian County, he added, remains committed to providing services and infrastructure, while maximizing revenue and keeping other taxes “affordable” for residents, and they remain eager to support pro-growth policies that lead to lower taxes and more opportunities for business and industry.
Meanwhile, Trigg County’s Judge-Executive Stan Humphries said that the thousands of miles of trails and waterways in the region provide “an incredible landscape to relax and enjoy outdoor adventure.” As such, he noted Cadiz, Canton and other parts of the tri-county area routinely welcome new companies, visitors and residents who desire to “take advantage of a lower cost of living and the great outdoors.”
According to regional economic data, southwestern Kentucky has seen more than $2.5 billion in new capital investment and over 2,500 jobs announced since 2022. That growth has allowed local governments to lower property taxes while generating similar revenues, which in turn help municipalities continue to invest in services and infrastructure.
Residential development is also increasing, with more than 500 new housing units planned over the next 18 months to support the region’s growing workforce. Guthrie, in Todd County, Oak Grove, in Christian County, and other locales have fully embraced this growth model — expediting housing developments to the market.
