Shelbyville, KY vs. Shively, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Imagine two families, the Smiths and the Johnsons, considering a move to Kentucky. The Smiths are eyeing a 3-bedroom home in Shelbyville, while the Johnsons have their sights set on a similar place in Shively. Let’s peek at their potential monthly budgets:
Shelbyville Smiths:
- Rent: $1,250
- Groceries: $600
- Utilities: $180
- Total: $2,030
Shively Johnsons:
- Rent: $1,400
- Groceries: $650
- Utilities: $200
- Total: $2,250
At first glance, the Smiths would save $220 per month living in Shelbyville. But there’s more to the story. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Shelbyville and Shively. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of these two cities in 2025.
Housing Costs: Shelbyville vs Shively
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rents and mortgages stack up:
| Housing Type | Shelbyville | Shively |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment | $950 | $1,100 |
| 3BR House | $1,250 | $1,400 |
🏆 Winner: Shelbyville. Expect to pay about 15% less on housing in Shelbyville compared to Shively.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. The average household in Shelbyville pays around $180 per month, while Shively residents pay closer to $200. Both cities experience hot summers and cool winters, so expect higher AC bills in July and steeper heating costs in January.
🏆 Winner: Shelbyville, but only by a slight margin. Moving from Shively to Shelbyville might save you $20 per month on utilities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable in Shelbyville and Shively, with Shelbyville being a hair cheaper. Budget around $600 per month for a family of four in Shelbyville, versus $650 in Shively. Eating out is also marginally less expensive in Shelbyville.
🏆 Winner: Shelbyville. You’ll save about 8% on food and daily goods living in Shelbyville.
Taxes and Fees
Both cities have similar property tax rates hovering around 0.85%. City service fees are also comparable. However, Shelbyville has slightly lower vehicle taxes and registration fees.
🏆 Winner: Shelbyville. Lower car-related costs give Shelbyville the edge.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Shelbyville | Shively |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,250 | $1,400 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $600 | $650 |
| Transportation | $300 | $325 |
| Taxes | $400 | $425 |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,130 | $3,400 |
Lifestyle Fit
Cost isn’t everything. Shelbyville offers more space and a small-town vibe, while Shively provides an easier commute to Louisville and more walkable neighborhoods. Shelbyville averages 5°F cooler in summer than Shively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shelbyville more affordable than Shively?
Yes, Shelbyville has a lower overall cost of living. See our full breakdown of average monthly expenses in Shelbyville.
Which city has lower rent?
Shelbyville has lower rent prices, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $950 vs $1,100 in Shively.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Shelbyville has lower home prices. A standard 3BR house runs about $1,250 per month, compared to $1,400 in Shively.
The Bottom Line
For most lifestyles, Shelbyville offers a lower cost of living than Shively. Budget-conscious families and remote workers may prefer Shelbyville, while those prioritizing location and commute times might favor Shively despite the higher costs.
Planning a move to either city? Compare moving company costs and options to find the best fit for your needs and budget. And be sure to read our other cost of living guides for Kentucky cities to explore all your options in the Bluegrass State.