Danville 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 Danville
Housing options in Danville range from apartments and townhomes to single-family homes. Renters can expect to pay between $900-$1,300 per month for a typical 2-bedroom apartment, depending on the neighborhood and amenities. Buying a 3-bedroom house in Danville typically costs between $180,000-$280,000.
Some of the more affordable neighborhoods for renters include:
- Streamland – 2BR apartments averaging $950/month
- Argyll – 2BR apartments around $1,050/month
- Caldwell – 2BR units typically $1,100-$1,200/month
For buyers, popular neighborhoods like Waveland and Hilldale tend to have higher home prices, often over $250,000 for a 3BR. More budget-friendly options can be found in areas like Atoka and Needmore, where a 3BR house may cost closer to $200,000. HOA fees are relatively uncommon in Danville, though some newer subdivisions may have them.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Basic utilities in Danville, including electric, gas, water, and trash, typically cost between $200-$300 per month for an average household. Expect higher electric bills in the summer months due to air conditioning needs. Internet service averages around $60-$80 per month.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $100-$150 |
| Gas | $50-$80 |
| Water/Sewer | $40-$60 |
| Trash | $20-$30 |
| Internet | $60-$80 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs in Danville are slightly below the national average. Expect to spend around $300-$400 per person per month on food and household essentials. A gallon of milk averages $3.50, while a dozen eggs cost about $2.00. Dining out can add $200-$300 per person to your monthly food budget, depending on your habits.
Here’s an example of what a typical grocery trip for a couple might look like:
- Milk, eggs, bread: $12
- Chicken, ground beef, pork chops: $25
- Fresh produce (apples, broccoli, potatoes): $15
- Pantry staples (rice, pasta, canned goods): $20
- Snacks and beverages: $18
Total: Around $90 for a week’s worth of groceries for two people, or $360-$400 per month.
Taxes and Fees
Danville’s property tax rate is $0.92 per $100 of assessed value, which is slightly higher than the Kentucky average of $0.83. For a home valued at $200,000, annual property taxes would be around $1,840.
Kentucky’s statewide sales tax is 6%, and there are no additional local sales taxes in Danville. Vehicle registration fees are $21 per year in Boyle County.
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $900 | $1,100 | $1,300 |
| Utilities | $200 | $250 | $300 |
| Groceries | $350 | $600 | $900 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Healthcare | $200 | $400 | $600 |
| Entertainment/Misc | $200 | $300 | $400 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $2,050 | $2,950 | $3,900 |
| Suggested Gross Monthly Income | $2,900 | $4,200 | $5,600 |
Keep in mind these are general estimates. Your actual budget will depend on your specific lifestyle, housing choice, and spending habits. The suggested gross monthly income figures assume around 30% of pre-tax income going to housing costs.
Lifestyle Considerations
While housing in Danville is relatively affordable compared to larger cities, home sizes tend to be more modest. Newer construction homes with over 2,000 square feet can be harder to find under $300,000. Older homes are common in the city center, offering charm and walkability but often requiring more maintenance.
Commute times in Danville are generally short, with most parts of town accessible within a 15-20 minute drive. However, public transit options are limited, so budget for vehicle expenses if you plan to live and work in Danville.
Danville offers a good balance of affordability and access to amenities like parks, local shops and restaurants. Larger retail centers and job hubs may require driving to nearby cities like Lexington (35 miles away) or Louisville (85 miles).
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Danville?
A gross monthly income of at least $2,900 for a single person or $4,200 for a couple is suggested for a comfortable lifestyle in Danville, assuming housing costs stay under 30% of income.
Is Danville cheaper than Lexington?
Yes, the cost of living in Danville is generally 5-10% lower than in Lexington, particularly when it comes to housing. Lexington offers more job opportunities and amenities, but at a slightly higher price point.
What are the top 3 costs that surprise newcomers to Danville?
- Property taxes, which are higher than the Kentucky average
- Summer electric bills, due to high AC usage
- Vehicle expenses, since public transit is limited
How much should I budget for rent in Danville?
Aim to spend $900-$1,300 per month on rent for a 2-bedroom apartment or house in Danville. This range covers most of the rental market, but prices can be higher for luxury units or newer construction.
Is it better to rent or buy in Danville?
This depends on your long-term plans and financial situation. Buying can be a good investment if you plan to stay 5+ years, but renting offers more flexibility. Consider the upfront costs and monthly payments for each option in your decision.
How much does it cost to move to Danville?
Moving costs vary based on distance and amount of belongings. If hiring movers, get quotes from several companies and compare the costs of pods vs. trucks to find the best option. Budget at least $1,000-$2,000 for a local move or $3,000-$5,000+ for a long-distance relocation.