Cost of Living in Shively, KY
Population 15,556 · Kentucky · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Household incomes in Shively run well below national norms — a median of $46,522 versus the $74,580 US figure. Housing costs partially offset that gap (typical home values around $139,000). Unemployment has stayed elevated relative to the national figure — 6.4% as of the most recent ACS release — which shows up in household-income and poverty figures as well.
Shively sits roughly 9 miles west of Louisville/Jefferson County metro government (balance) — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Median home values run roughly 37% lower than Louisville/Jefferson County metro government (balance)'s $222,000.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Shively
The median home value in Shively is $139,200 — 54% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $847/month, 36% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $46,522/year is 38% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 6.4%, above the national average of 4.8%. Kentucky's top state income tax rate is 4.0% and the combined sales tax is 6.0%. Overall, Shively has a cost of living index of 53 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 47% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Shively, KY?
Shively has a cost index of 53 (100 = national average). It is 47% below the national average.
What is average rent in Shively, KY?
The median gross rent in Shively is $847 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Shively?
The median home value in Shively is $139,200 according to 2023 Census ACS data.
What is the median income in Shively?
The median household income in Shively is $46,522 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Shively, KY?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Shively is 6.0%. The Kentucky state income tax top rate is 4.0%.
Is Shively, KY affordable?
Yes, Shively is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 53 — about 47% below the US national average of 100.
Shively at a Glance
- Population
- 15,556
- Median Income
- $46,522
- Home Value
- $139,200
- Median Rent
- $847/mo
- Unemployment
- 6.4%
- Sales Tax
- 6.0%
Nearby Cities
Explore county-level cost of living data
Kentucky Rankings
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