While most prominently known for hosting the Kentucky Derby at the famous Churchill Downs, there’s so much more to Louisville’s charm! It offers a diverse assortment of activities to fit any lifestyle, taste, and budget. That’s why we’ve put together some need-to-know information that will have you feeling like a local in no time!
Overview & History of Louisville
Louisville served as a major river port with a lot of commercial influence over the South and Midwest just before the Civil War. During the war, it was a military headquarters and major Union supply depot. Situated on the Ohio River, it now has bridges linking to the cities of New Albany and Jeffersonville, Indiana. You may already know that Louisville is a leading producer of bourbon whiskey, but did you know that it is also home to the American Printing House for the Blind (established in 1858), which publishes books in Braille? The University of Louisville was founded in 1798 and today its student population continues to bring an influx of vibrant and diverse students from across the globe.
Cost of Living in Louisville
Coming in at 8% below the national average, the cost of living in Louisville fares pretty well. Housing expenses are 20% below the national average, with the median home price being around $280,000, and home utilities are 6% lower. Food/groceries rank as 11% lower, and even health care is 7% below the national average.
Here are some helpful breakdowns to give you an idea of costs:
Meal for one at inexpensive restaurant: $15.00
Cup of coffee: $4.50
Gallon of milk: $ 1.66
Dozen eggs: $1.69
One-way bus ticket (local transport): $1.75
Gallon of gas: $2.45
Movie ticket: $10.00
Beer (1 pint): $5.50
The Job Market in Louisville
Whether you are relocating for work or hoping to explore a new career path, the job market plays an instrumental role in moving to a new city. Louisville’s job market fares pretty well overall, although the average median salary is less than the national average by about $5,000. The unemployment rate in Louisville is 3.9%, and has seen a continuously steady decline over the past decade. The majority of employment opportunities fall into one of three categories:
- Accommodations and food service. This is no surprise given that Louisville hosts the Kentucky Derby, one of the most anticipated events of the year (Total employment: 59,600).
- Administrative and support and waste management and remediation services. With the population growth that Louisville continues to experience, it’s no wonder that the number of these essential services is increasing as well (Total employment: 45,500).
- Finance and insurance: This includes jobs like customer service representatives, financial advisors, and banking employees (Total employment: 37,800).
Popular Neighborhoods
If you’re serious about making a move to Louisville, then it’s time to take a closer look at some of the popular neighborhoods in the area to figure out which could be the perfect fit for you! We always recommend planning a visit before your big move to discover which neighborhood is perfectly suited for you!
Germantown: Located just southeast of downtown, this neighborhood features a mix of older, lifelong residents and younger, typically artsy professionals. Most the of homes still resemble the mid-nineteenth-century architecture, and there’s an old saying in the area that there’s a Catholic church and a bar within walking distance from every dwelling.
Crescent Hill: This urban neighborhood is located just east of downtown and offers a beautiful mix of Victorian-style homes as well as smaller bungalows. It’s within walking distance of a variety of boutiques, shops, restaurants, and local watering holes. The population has recently become more a mix of baby boomers and students.
Norton Commons: This brand-new, traditional neighborhood development replicates an old-fashioned urban aesthetic, with houses on smaller lots, positioned fairly close to one another. Most homes have porches, and neighbors in this community tend to use them regularly to enjoying one another’s company. There’s a village center in the neighborhood that offers up a variety of restaurants, shops, and events for locals.
Butchertown: As one of the most popular neighborhoods in Louisville, especially for musicians and artists, this area is a mix of classic brick buildings and modern apartments. It’s a great place for young professionals who enjoy trendy coffee joints, eateries, and boutiques, while also being close to the heart of downtown.
Downtown: Downtown living in Louisville is much more affordable than similarly sized metros. Rental rates are 50% lower than the national average, and it’s extremely walkable and bike-friendly. Additionally, the LouLift operates on zero emissions, making it easy to explore all of the bars, restaurants, and hidden gems the area has to offer.
Entertainment & Culture
From unique art museums to bourbon and bluegrass tours to the Kentucky Derby, Louisville has unmatched charm and endless entertainment options for everyone. There are family-friendly activities, like a trip to Dinosaur World or learning to paddle along the Ohio River, or if you prefer an adult night out on the town, you could venture to enjoy an upscale dinner downtown at 8Up Elevated Drinkery and Kitchen, followed by a show at the Actors Theater of Louisville. There are so many hidden gems and unique experiences, you’d be hard-pressed to find yourself bored here!
Moving to Louisville
We hope this Louisville city guide has helped you to get to know Louisville a little more – and perhaps you’re ready to make the move and become the next full-time Louisville resident!
Wherever you may be moving from, Black Tie Moving is ready to help make your move to Louisville an unforgettable VIP experience! We offer comprehensive concierge moving services and can even supply quality packing and supplies to make your transition super easy!
Thinking of moving to Louisville? Give our team of local, industry-leading movers a call today at (214) 257-8336 and get a FREE quote on your moving costs! We would love to help with your move from start to finish, and treat you like a rock star every step of the way!
