Shelbyville is considered relatively affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,100 and grocery costs slightly below the national average.
Housing Costs in Shelbyville
Housing options in Shelbyville range from cozy apartments to spacious single-family homes. Renters can expect to pay around $900-$1,300 per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment, depending on the neighborhood and amenities. Newer complexes with pools and fitness centers tend to be on the higher end of that range.
For those looking to purchase a home, a 3-bedroom house in Shelbyville typically costs between $200,000 and $350,000. Prices vary based on factors like lot size, age of the home, and proximity to downtown or desirable schools. Some neighborhoods, particularly those with larger lots and newer construction, may have optional HOA fees ranging from $50-$200 per month.
Here’s a quick comparison of housing costs across some popular Shelbyville neighborhoods:
| Neighborhood | Avg. 2BR Rent | Avg. 3BR Home Price |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown | $1,100 | $250,000 |
| Northside | $950 | $225,000 |
| Southside | $1,200 | $300,000 |
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utilities in Shelbyville, including electric, gas, water, and trash, typically run around $200-$300 per month for an average apartment or small home. Expect cooling costs to rise a bit in the hot summer months. High-speed internet adds another $50-$80 to the monthly bill.
Here’s a rough estimate of typical monthly utility costs in Shelbyville:
- Electricity: $100-$150
- Gas: $50-$80
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $50-$70
- Internet: $50-$80
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Shelbyville residents spend an average of $250-$350 per person each month on groceries and household items. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out. A gallon of milk runs about $3.50, while a loaf of bread is around $2.50.
To give a sense of typical grocery costs, here’s what a basic weekly shopping basket for one person might look like:
- Milk (1 gal): $3.50
- Bread (1 loaf): $2.50
- Eggs (1 doz): $2.00
- Chicken breast (1 lb): $4.00
- Apples (3 lb): $4.50
- Lettuce (1 head): $2.00
Dining out costs vary, but a basic meal at a casual restaurant usually runs $12-$18 per person, while fast food combos are around $8-$10.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Shelbyville’s property tax rate is $0.793 per $100 of assessed value, which works out to about $1,600 annually for a $200,000 home. Kentucky also has a 6% sales tax on most goods and services.
Vehicle owners should budget for an annual car registration fee, which runs $21 for a typical passenger car. Some newer neighborhoods have monthly HOA fees, usually $50-$200, to maintain common areas and amenities.
Monthly Budget Summary
To sum it up, here’s a sample monthly budget for common household types in Shelbyville:
| Expense | Single | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,000 | $1,200 | $1,500 |
| Utilities | $200 | $250 | $350 |
| Groceries & Dining | $300 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Other (Entertainment, Clothing, etc) | $300 | $500 | $750 |
| Total | $2,000 | $2,850 | $4,000 |
Keep in mind these are gross monthly income estimates (pre-tax). Actual budgets vary based on lifestyle, family size, and spending habits.
Lifestyle Considerations
Living comfortably in Shelbyville is achievable for many households, but there are tradeoffs to consider. Choosing an apartment close to downtown means paying a bit more in rent, but offers walkability and shorter commutes. Opting for a home in the suburbs provides more space and newer construction, but may require budgeting more for transportation.
Access to parks, community events, and good schools are some of the perks that attract families to Shelbyville. Traffic is lighter than in nearby Louisville, with an average commute time around 25 minutes.
Shelbyville’s cost of living is quite affordable compared to larger cities in the region. Housing costs are about 15% lower than in Louisville, while groceries and utilities are on par. This allows many residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Shelbyville?
A gross monthly income around $2,800 (pre-tax) allows a single person to live comfortably in Shelbyville, while a family of four generally needs at least $4,000 per month.
Is Shelbyville cheaper than Louisville?
Yes, Shelbyville’s cost of living is about 10% lower overall compared to Louisville, with the biggest savings in housing.
What are the top 3 costs that surprise newcomers to Shelbyville?
- HOA fees in some newer neighborhoods
- Rising summer electric bills for cooling
- Annual vehicle property taxes
How much should I budget for moving expenses?
Moving locally in Shelbyville might cost $300-$800, while moving from out of state can run $2,000-$5,000 or more. Be sure to compare moving company costs and options to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
Are there ways to save on monthly expenses in Shelbyville?
Trimming utility costs, cooking meals at home, and using public parks for recreation are a few ways Shelbyville residents can save. Carpooling or biking to work also cuts down on transportation costs.