Welcome to Wilmore, KY
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, Wilmore is a charming small town with a strong sense of community and a rich spiritual heritage. With its picturesque downtown, excellent schools, and proximity to Lexington, Wilmore is an attractive destination for families, retirees, and those seeking a peaceful, faith-centered lifestyle.
📍 Wilmore, KY at a Glance
- Population: 6,226
- Location: Central Kentucky, 20 miles southwest of Lexington
- Incorporated: 1918
- Known For: Asbury University, Asbury Theological Seminary, strong faith community
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
Wilmore has a conservative political leaning, with a strong emphasis on traditional values and community involvement. The city government works closely with local churches and organizations to foster a tight-knit, supportive environment.
🚓 Crime & Safety
Wilmore has a low crime rate, making it a safe and secure place to live. The Wilmore Police Department is dedicated to maintaining a peaceful community through proactive policing and community engagement.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
While Wilmore has a limited selection of local restaurants, popular spots include Solomon’s Porch Café, Tastebuds Coffee & Tea, and Fitch’s IGA for grocery needs. Residents often venture to nearby Lexington for a wider variety of dining and entertainment options.
🏛️ Local Government
Wilmore is governed by a mayor and city council, who work to maintain the city’s infrastructure, support local businesses, and foster a strong sense of community. The city government is accessible and responsive to residents’ needs.
🚍 Transportation
While Wilmore does not have a public transportation system, its compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Many residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting and errands, with easy access to major highways like US-68 and KY-29.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
Wilmore offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, with a median home value of around $150,000. The cost of living is generally lower than the national average, making it an affordable place to settle down.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Wilmore is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with several parks and green spaces for residents to enjoy. The Centennial Park and Kinlaw Park offer playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas, while nearby natural attractions like the Kentucky River Palisades provide opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
💼 Job Market
Wilmore’s economy is primarily driven by education, with Asbury University and Asbury Theological Seminary serving as major employers. Other job opportunities can be found in local businesses, healthcare, and in the nearby cities of Lexington and Nicholasville. The median household income in Wilmore is around $50,000.
🧑🏫 Education
Wilmore is served by the Jessamine County School District, which includes Wilmore Elementary School and West Jessamine Middle and High Schools. The city is also home to Asbury University, a private Christian liberal arts university, and Asbury Theological Seminary, a graduate school for theological studies.
🌞 Climate & Weather
Wilmore experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The city receives around 45 inches of rainfall and 12 inches of snowfall annually, with temperatures ranging from an average low of 25°F in January to an average high of 86°F in July.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents of Wilmore often describe the community as friendly, welcoming, and deeply rooted in faith. The small-town atmosphere and strong sense of belonging make it an attractive place for families and those seeking a close-knit, supportive environment.
🔗 Dive Deeper into Wilmore
💸 Cost & Budget
- Cost of Living Overview — High-level look at Wilmore’s overall monthly expenses
- Local Hidden Fees — Taxes, HOA charges, and surprise costs residents face
- Monthly Budget Examples — Sample budgets for different household sizes
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
- Housing Costs & Ownership — Rent vs buy, property tax, and HOA fee breakdown
- Income Needed to Live Comfortably — Salary targets by lifestyle and household type
- What It’s Like to Live Here — Local sentiment, community vibe, and quality of life
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
- Grocery Costs — Typical monthly grocery spending for Wilmore residents
- Internet & Streaming Costs — What you’ll pay for internet, cable, and streaming services
- Public Transit Costs — Fares, passes, and best-value transportation options
- Utilities Breakdown — Electricity, water, trash, and seasonal bill fluctuations
🏙️ City Comparisons
People are drawn to Wilmore for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and faith-centered lifestyle. The city’s affordable cost of living, safe neighborhoods, and proximity to Lexington make it an appealing choice for families, retirees, and those seeking a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with easy access to urban amenities.