Louisville, the largest city in Kentucky, is steeped in history and famous for its unique contributions to American culture. It’s home to the legendary Kentucky Derby, a bucket-list event that combines horse racing, dazzling fashion, and over-the-top festivities.
Whether it’s the rich flavors of hot browns and bourbon or the annual cultural buzz from events like the Forecastle Festival, Louisville offers renters a city full of character, history, and entertainment. If you’re considering a move, Derby City might just be the perfect place to call home. Let’s dive into five affordable neighborhoods.
Bon Air
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Louisville: $1,120/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Bon Air: $748/month
- Median Home List Price in Bon Air: $230,000
Nestled in the heart of Louisville, the Bon Air neighborhood offers a peaceful suburban feel with the convenience of city living. Established in 1939, the area saw tremendous growth after World War II. The homes here reflect solid craftsmanship and timeless appeal, creating a warm and welcoming environment. It’s the kind of neighborhood where you can settle in and feel at home from day one.
Things to do in Bon Air
Check out the nearby Louisville Zoo, with its calendar chock full of community events. For a fee, you can also become a member of their “adoption” program for their inhabitants such as tigers, elephants—even snakes! After enjoying time at the zoo, practice your tennis swing at Joe Creason Park, home to nine tennis courts. To wrap up the day, head over to Moby Dick Bashford Manor, praised for its fried-to-order fish and crispy onion rings.
Transportation
The neighborhood’s convenient location near major roadways like I-264 means you can reach downtown Louisville in about 15 minutes. Public transit is also available, with the Transit Authority of River City (TARC) providing several bus routes throughout the area.
Taylor Berry
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Louisville: $1,120/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Taylor Berry: $822/month
- Median Home List Price in Taylor Berry: $144,950
What began as a streetcar hub in the early 20th century, Taylor Berry has steadily grown in popularity with its modest homes, grid-like streets, and proximity to the world-famous Churchill Downs, a horse-racing track. The cozy neighborhood features Craftsman bungalows and homes with prominent apex roofs.
Things to do in Taylor Berry
Being close to Churchill Downs offers opportunities for a variety of guest tours and community events held throughout the year. Grab tickets to the Kentucky Derby Museum and spend an afternoon checking out interactive exhibits on horse racing. Don’t miss a visit to the museum’s Derby Café & Bourbon Bar, where you can try dishes like the Kentucky Hot Bown and the Bluegrass Turkey Bacon Club. Burn off the calories with a short drive to Kentucky Kingdom amusement park and Hurricane Bay water park.
Transportation
When it comes to commuting, Taylor Berry’s location is a major selling point. The neighborhood connects to central Louisville via major thoroughfares like Interstate 264 and Taylor Boulevard. Public transit is available with bus stops along key routes such as Manslick Road and Berry Boulevard. You can enjoy a short, four-mile drive to downtown Louisville, and the Louisville International Airport is conveniently located just three miles southeast.
Shelby Park
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Louisville: $1,120/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Shelby Park: $860/month
- Median Home List Price in Shelby Park: $250,000
Shelby Park, located just two miles southeast of downtown Louisville, showcases shotgun-style cottages and camelbacks, characterized by their long, narrow designs. Kentucky’s first governor, Isaac Shelby, lent his name to both the neighborhood and its 17-acre park. While the area saw its population decrease in the mid-20th century, recent revitalization efforts have sparked renewed interest in the community.
Things to do in Shelby Park
At the heart of the neighborhood sits a 17-acre green space—also named Shelby Park, with amenities like modern tennis courts, walking paths, and a restored pavilion. Logan Street Market, Louisville’s year-round indoor food and artisan venue, serves as a frequent gathering spot for residents and visitors alike. Unique street murals and public art installations are a great way to explore the area on foot.
Transportation
The neighborhood is bordered by Interstate 65 and major routes like Kentucky Street, providing easy access to downtown Louisville and the surrounding areas. With its proximity to Germantown, Smoketown, and Old Louisville, Shelby Park also places you within easy reach of nearby cultural and entertainment hotspots.
Wyandotte
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Louisville: $1,120/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Wyandotte: $909/month
- Median Home List Price in Wyandotte: $149,900
Wyandotte, located on the south side of Louisville, blends the coziness of suburbia with proximity to iconic city landmarks. Architecturally, homes with wooden exteriors and Craftsman influences dominate the area, featuring prominent columns, spacious porches, and low-pitched roofs.
The neighborhood’s roots trace back to the 1890s when suburban developments were spurred by the opening of Iroquois Park and the expansion of streetcar lines. Initially named Oakdale, the area was renamed Wyandotte in the 1970s, honoring the Native American Wyandotte Nation.
Things to do in Wyandotte
Wyandotte Park serves as the community’s centerpiece, providing basketball courts, a splash pad, and tennis and pickleball facilities. Iroquois Park provides serene trails, scenic overlooks, and a 2,300-seat outdoor amphitheater for shows and concerts. If you desire adventure, the Louisville Mega Cavern has an underground zipline experience that’s highly-rated by attendees. After spending time in the cavern, head over to Toasty’s Tavern to enjoy their highly-praised burgers and fries.
Transportation
Wyandotte’s location makes commuting and connectivity a breeze. The neighborhood is bordered by major thoroughfares like Interstate 264 and Southern Parkway, facilitating easy access to the rest of Louisville by car and public transit.
Portland
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Louisville: $1,120/month
- Average 1-bedroom rent in Portland: $966/month
- Median Home List Price in Portland: $100,000
Portland sits along the Ohio River, just northwest of downtown Louisville. Established in 1811 by William Lytle, the founder of Cincinnati, Ohio, the neighborhood was part of a major shipping route for steamboats. If you stroll Portland’s tree-lined streets, you will find homes that date back to the 19th century, with features such as cast iron railings and small front-door stoops.
Things to do in Portland
History buffs should spend time at the Portland Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the neighborhood’s heritage through exhibitions, events, and programs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Portland Wharf Park, a sprawling green space along the river with walking trails and historic remnants of the original townsite.
Baseball fans are a stone’s throw away from the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where patrons can purchase an all-star experience and walk away with a personalized bat. Recharge your batteries at Waterfront Park, a venue along the Ohio River, where you can embark on a river cruise, take a stroll, and attend community events.
Transportation
Portland’s location makes it highly accessible, especially for those commuting to downtown Louisville. With I-64 and I-264 bordering the area and several TARC bus routes serving the neighborhood, you have convenient transit options. Its proximity—just two miles from downtown—also allows for quick drives or even bike commutes into the heart of the city.
If historic charm and friendly neighborhood vibes are calling your name, what are you waiting for? Search Apartments.com for homes in Louisville today!
*Apartment rent data provided by CoStar Group’s July 2025 reports
