Hillview, KY vs. Louisville, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Hillview or Louisville, Kentucky? Here’s a rapid-fire cost of living comparison for 2025:
- 🏠 Median rent for a 2BR apartment: $950 in Hillview vs $1,200 in Louisville
- ⚡ Average monthly utility bill: $120 in Hillview vs $140 in Louisville
- 🍎 Typical grocery costs for a family of 4: $800 in Hillview vs $850 in Louisville
- 💸 Combined state and local sales tax rate: 6% in both cities
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Hillview and Louisville. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two Kentucky cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Hillview and Louisville compare for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | Hillview | Louisville |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $950 | $1,200 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $1,300 | $1,600 |
🏆 Winner: Hillview. Housing costs are around 20% lower in Hillview compared to Louisville.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities, with Louisville residents paying slightly more on average:
- Hillview: $120/month (summer), $140/month (winter)
- Louisville: $140/month (summer), $160/month (winter)
Both cities offer “time of day” pricing plans to help reduce energy bills. Take advantage of off-peak hours to save.
🏆 Winner: Hillview, but the difference is minor – around $20/month.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable in Hillview and Louisville. Expect to spend around $800 per month for a family of four in Hillview, versus $850 in Louisville.
Eating out is also similarly priced. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $50 for two in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and dining out costs are nearly identical.
4. Taxes and Fees
Kentucky has a statewide sales tax rate of 6%, which applies to both Hillview and Louisville. Neither city charges an additional local sales tax.
Property taxes are slightly higher in Louisville at 0.97% vs 0.92% in Hillview. For a $250,000 home, that’s a difference of $125 per year.
🏆 Winner: Hillview, but only by a small margin due to lower property taxes.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Hillview | Louisville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $950 – $1,300 | $1,200 – $1,600 |
| Utilities | $120 – $140 | $140 – $160 |
| Groceries | $800 | $850 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Taxes | 0.92% property tax | 0.97% property tax |
| Misc | $200 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,130 – $2,500 | $2,520 – $2,940 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Hillview is more affordable, Louisville offers more amenities and a faster pace of life. Louisville has more public transportation options, while Hillview is more walkable.
Louisville’s climate is slightly milder in winter, with average January temperatures around 5°F warmer than Hillview. Both cities experience hot, humid summers.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hillview more affordable than Louisville?
A: Yes, the cost of living is around 15-20% lower in Hillview, mainly due to cheaper housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Hillview has lower average rent prices. Expect to pay around $950 for a 2BR apartment vs $1,200 in Louisville.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Hillview has lower median home prices and slightly lower property taxes, making it more affordable for homebuyers.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Hillview offers a lower cost of living, particularly for housing expenses. A household moving from Louisville to Hillview might save $400/month on housing alone.
However, Louisville provides more big-city amenities, entertainment options, and slightly milder winters. It may be the better choice for those prioritizing lifestyle over cost.
Considering other Kentucky cities? Check out our cost of living comparisons for Lexington, Bowling Green, Owensboro and more.