Shepherdsville Housing Expenses: Rent, Buying, and Ownership Costs

The Housing Market in Shepherdsville Today

Shepherdsville, Kentucky is a growing suburban community located just south of Louisville. The city’s proximity to major employers like Amazon and UPS Worldport, combined with its small-town charm and affordability, has made it an increasingly popular choice for homebuyers and renters in recent years.

Compared to nearby cities like Louisville and Elizabethtown, Shepherdsville offers more affordable housing options while still providing easy access to job centers and amenities. The city’s population has grown steadily over the past decade, leading to increased demand for both rental properties and single-family homes.

As Shepherdsville continues to attract new residents, the housing market has remained relatively stable. While prices have risen in line with national trends, the city still offers a range of options for different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking to rent an apartment or purchase your first home, understanding the local market is key to making an informed decision.

Renting in Shepherdsville: Typical Costs and Trends

For those considering renting in Shepherdsville, the city offers a variety of apartment complexes and rental homes to choose from. As of 2025, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Shepherdsville is around $900 per month, while a two-bedroom unit typically costs about $1,100.

Rental prices can vary depending on the specific neighborhood and amenities offered. Apartments located closer to major highways and employers like Amazon tend to command higher rents, while those in more residential areas may be slightly more affordable. Popular rental communities in Shepherdsville include Heritage Hill, The Paddock at Eastpoint, and Settler’s Trace.

Shepherdsville’s rental market attracts a mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. Many residents appreciate the city’s small-town feel and tight-knit community, while still being able to easily commute to jobs in Louisville or other nearby cities. With several new apartment developments in the works, renters can expect to have even more options in the coming years.

Owning a Home in Shepherdsville: Prices, Taxes, and HOA Fees

For those looking to purchase a home in Shepherdsville, the median home price as of 2025 is around $250,000. This is significantly more affordable than in nearby Louisville, where the median price is closer to $300,000. However, prices can vary widely depending on the specific neighborhood, home size, and amenities.

In addition to mortgage payments, homeowners in Shepherdsville need to budget for property taxes and potential HOA fees. The property tax rate in Bullitt County, where Shepherdsville is located, is approximately 0.96% of the assessed value. For a $250,000 home, this translates to about $2,400 per year or $200 per month.

Some neighborhoods in Shepherdsville, particularly newer developments, may also have HOA fees. These fees typically cover the maintenance of common areas, amenities like pools or playgrounds, and sometimes services like trash removal. HOA fees in Shepherdsville can range from $50 to $200 per month, depending on the community and amenities offered.

Utility & Upkeep Differences

When comparing the costs of renting versus owning in Shepherdsville, it’s important to consider the differences in utility and maintenance expenses. In most rental situations, tenants are responsible for paying electricity, gas, water, and sewer bills, while the landlord covers any maintenance or repair costs.

Homeowners, on the other hand, are responsible for all utility costs as well as any maintenance and repairs needed for the property. This can include everything from routine tasks like mowing the lawn and cleaning gutters to larger expenses like replacing a roof or HVAC system. In Shepherdsville, utility costs for a typical three-bedroom home can run around $250 per month, while maintenance costs can vary widely depending on the age and condition of the home.

It’s worth noting that Shepherdsville’s climate can impact utility costs for both renters and homeowners. The city experiences hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, which means that air conditioning is a must for most of the year. This can lead to higher electricity bills, particularly in older homes or apartments that may be less energy-efficient.

5-Year Rent vs Buy Outlook

When deciding whether to rent or buy in Shepherdsville, it’s helpful to consider the long-term costs and potential for appreciation. Using the average rent and home prices from the previous sections, we can project the total costs over a five-year period.

Assuming a 2% annual rent increase and a 3% annual home price appreciation, renting a two-bedroom apartment in Shepherdsville for five years would cost a total of $69,360. This includes $66,000 in rent payments and $3,360 in renter’s insurance premiums.

Purchasing a $250,000 home with a 10% down payment and a 3.5% interest rate would result in a total cost of $102,750 over five years. This includes $60,000 in mortgage payments, $12,000 in property taxes, $15,000 in maintenance and repair costs, $4,000 in homeowner’s insurance premiums, and $11,750 in potential HOA fees. However, assuming a 3% annual appreciation rate, the home would also gain $39,453 in value over the same period.

FAQs About Housing Costs in Shepherdsville

• How much are HOA fees in Shepherdsville?
  HOA fees in Shepherdsville can range from $50 to $200 per month, depending on the community and amenities offered. Not all neighborhoods have HOA fees.
• What is the property tax rate in Shepherdsville?
  The property tax rate in Bullitt County, where Shepherdsville is located, is approximately 0.96% of the assessed value. For a $250,000 home, this translates to about $2,400 per year or $200 per month.
• Is renting cheaper than buying long-term in Shepherdsville?
  While renting may be cheaper in the short term, buying a home in Shepherdsville can be more cost-effective in the long run. Over a five-year period, the total cost of owning a $250,000 home is about $33,000 more than renting a two-bedroom apartment. However, the home would also gain nearly $40,000 in value over the same period.
• Do houses have higher utility costs than apartments?
  In general, houses tend to have higher utility costs than apartments due to their larger size and the fact that homeowners are responsible for all utility expenses. In Shepherdsville, utility costs for a typical three-bedroom home can run around $250 per month.

Making Smart Housing Choices in Shepherdsville

Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy in Shepherdsville depends on your individual circumstances, financial goals, and lifestyle preferences. While renting offers more flexibility and lower upfront costs, buying a home can provide a sense of stability and the potential for long-term wealth building.

If you’re considering a move to Shepherdsville, it’s important to do your research and budget accordingly. Take a look at our guide to sample monthly budgets for Shepherdsville in 2025 to get a better sense of what your expenses might look like. You can also explore our full breakdown of the cost of living in Shepherdsville for more detailed information on housing, transportation, food, and other expenses.

For those planning a move, don’t forget to factor in the costs of hiring a moving company or renting a truck. Our guide to comparing moving company costs and options can help you find the best fit for your budget and needs.

By understanding the local housing market and carefully considering your options, you can make a smart choice that fits your budget and helps you achieve your long-term financial goals in Shepherdsville.