Earlington, KY

Earlington is a quiet small town in Hopkins County, tucked just south of Madisonville in western Kentucky. The community was established in 1870 and named for John Baylis Earle, who opened the area's first commercial coal mine. Trains soon followed to haul shipments along the Louisville and Nashville line, and the tracks still run straight through town, giving the area a classic railroad feel.

Because Earlington was designed as a complete company town, early builders included parks, walkable neighborhood streets, and Loch Mary Reservoir, which remains a favorite local spot for fishing and getting out on the water. Residents also share plenty of hometown pride, from the Yellowjackets' historic 1967 state basketball title to quiet community traditions. With U.S. Route 41 running right through town, it offers a peaceful, affordable setting with a quick drive into Madisonville for work, dining, and shopping.