Shepherdsville, KY vs. Louisville, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Shepherdsville or Louisville? This article provides a cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life costs of living in these two Kentucky cities in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Shepherdsville and Louisville compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Shepherdsville | Louisville |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $950 | $1,250 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $280,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Shepherdsville. You’ll pay around 25% less for an apartment and 20% less to buy a home compared to Louisville.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also factor heavily into monthly budgets. In Shepherdsville, expect to pay around $180 per month for a 2BR apartment, including electricity, water, and gas. Louisville utility bills average closer to $220 for the same setup.
Both cities experience hot summers and cold winters, so budget for higher heating and cooling costs seasonally. Louisville does offer some off-peak utility plans that can help save.
🏆 Winner: Shepherdsville. Monthly utility costs come in about 20% lower on average.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, Shepherdsville residents spend around 5% less than those in Louisville. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Shepherdsville compared to $3.75 in Louisville, for example. Restaurant prices are also slightly lower in Shepherdsville.
🏆 Winner: Shepherdsville, but the difference is minor. Sample monthly budgets for Shepherdsville show you can eat well on a moderate budget.
4. Taxes and Fees
Kentucky’s statewide income tax of 5% applies to both cities. However, Shepherdsville’s property taxes come in lower at 0.85% vs Louisville’s 1.1% rate. City service fees like trash and recycling are comparable.
In Shepherdsville, HOA fees often include landscaping and neighborhood amenities. Louisville HOAs may have higher fees on average.
🏆 Winner: Shepherdsville. Lower property taxes can add up to solid savings for homeowners.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Shepherdsville | Louisville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $1,400 | $1,750 |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 |
| Groceries | $500 | $525 |
| Transportation | $300 | $325 |
| Taxes (Property) | $198 | $321 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,978 | $3,591 |
Figures are estimates based on a 3BR home valued at $280K in Shepherdsville and $350K in Louisville. Your costs may vary. See a full cost of living breakdown for Shepherdsville.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Shepherdsville offers more space for your money, with larger homes and yards common. Louisville provides better walkability and public transit but with less square footage. Traffic and noise levels are higher in Louisville.
Shepherdsville averages 5°F cooler than Louisville in the peak of summer. Both cities get moderate snowfall in winter.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Shepherdsville more affordable than Louisville?
A: Yes, Shepherdsville offers a lower cost of living overall, especially for housing.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Rental rates are around 25% cheaper in Shepherdsville than Louisville for a comparable apartment.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Shepherdsville. The median home price is roughly 20% less than in Louisville.
8. Conclusion
Shepherdsville comes out ahead for affordability in most categories. It’s ideal for those who prefer a slower pace and more space. Louisville’s higher costs come with more city amenities and a vibrant urban feel that some may prefer.
Considering other cities in Kentucky? Compare moving company costs and see our other cost of living breakdowns for the Bluegrass State.