The state’s capital feels like “Kentucky Distilled”
Home to the state capitol building and one of the world's most famous bourbon distilleries, Frankfort lives up to its slogan: “Kentucky Distilled.” But with a population of just under 30,000, it’s far from the state’s biggest city. “Frankfort has a small-town feel,” says Brent Simpson, a Realtor with Century 21 Simpson & Associates. Simpson's family-run business has worked in the city for generations. “It’s a great place to raise a family; there’s hardly any traffic, and people look out for each other."
Some of the city's most notable landmarks include the capitol building and the governor's mansion. Both impressive structures were built in the early 1900s and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. More than a quarter of the city’s workforce is in public administration. “Being the seat of government means we have a lot of movement in and out,” Simpson says. “But that also means we have more cultural events going on.” However, for big-city amenities and entertainment, locals tend to drive to Lexington or Louisville.
The state capitol building in Frankfort was completed in 1910.
The Governor's Mansion in Frankfort was added to the United States National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
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Mid-century homes are more affordable than Lexington
The average home price is $230,000, with most homes under $500,000. “Frankfort is more affordable than Lexington and Louisville,” Simpson says. “But we are seeing prices continually go up here because we just don’t have the supply.” Downtown has some colorful Victorians and vintage bungalows. The outskirts of the city are seeing some modern construction. However, the majority of Frankfort’s housing stock was constructed in the mid to late 1900s. “There hasn’t been a lot of recent development,” Simpson says. “We don’t have any of those modern neighborhoods that have community pools and tennis courts.”
The city has historically experienced major floods, leading to the construction of levees and floodwalls. However, some homes along the river’s banks and watershed are still at a slight risk.
Frankfort features homes built in the 1800's.
Homes in Frankfort have an average value of around $305,000.
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Buffalo Trace is a centerpiece of Frankfort’s bourbon scene
Kentucky is synonymous with bourbon, and its capital has some of the best in the state. The city is home to five different distilleries, most notably Buffalo Trace, the oldest continually operating distillery in the United States. A couple of hundred people line up outside Buffalo Trace each morning to see which bottle will be on offer that day. “Buffalo Trace is one of the world’s most famous distilleries,” says Robin Antenucci, the executive director of Visit Frankfort. “There’s only one person who knows what is going to be on the shelf each day, so it creates a lot of demand.” Thousands of visitors stop by Frankfort as they follow the state-wide Bourbon Trail, and the city offers regular tasting tours and bourbon-themed celebrations.
The Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort offers 7 different complimentary tours and bourbon tastings.
Distilled in Frankfort, Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon was the first single barrel bourbon to be sold commercially and was released in 1984.
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A historic downtown and brand-new retail hub
A curve of the Kentucky River outlines a walkable downtown with vintage storefronts from the 1800s. Used bookstores and antique shops sit next to trendy brewpubs with river views. Downtown comes to life for summer concerts, Bourbon Week and derby celebrations. But shopping and dining options can be lacking outside the city's quaint center. “Our population and lack of growth have hurt us because we don’t have enough people to maintain new restaurants,” Simpson says.
One of the city's biggest upcoming projects is the Paddocks of Frankfort. This $150 million endeavor will be the city’s largest mixed-use development, anchored by Franklin County’s first Target. It is expected to be completed in late 2025. “It’s a big stride in the right direction,” Simpson says.
Temperatures in Frankfort range from 88º in the summer to 25º in the winter.
Many retail shops in downtown Frankfort now occupy buildings that were originally built in the 1800s.
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Biking and hiking on the Frankfort’s preserved parkland
Frankfort has hundreds of acres of preserved woodland right within the city, with miles of trails. “We have some of the best mountain biking trails in the central part of the state,” Antenucci says. In the hot, humid summers, the Kentucky River is open for paddle boating, and the Juniper Hill Aquatic Center gets packed with visitors. Riverview Park is one of the most visited in the city, with waterside views and a summer farmers market. Come winter, Frankfort typically gets a few inches of snow. Indoor recreation options include shows at the historic Grand Theater, fitness classes at the YMCA or storytime at the Paul Sawyier Public Library.
The Miller Trail in Frankfort was named for the British officer who died as a prisoner of war while being held there during the war of 1812.
The Leslie Morris Park in Frankfort has a trail loop distance of 1.38 miles.
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Two school districts and Kentucky State University
Frankfort Independent School District serves the city center and has a B-plus rating from Niche. There are only two schools in the district, with less than 1,000 students, so class sizes tend to be small and full of familiar faces. Outside of downtown, kids are zoned for Franklin County Public Schools, which has a B-minus rating. Private school options in the city include The Frankfort Christian Academy, which Niche ranks as the third-best Christian high school in the Lexington area.
The city is also home to Kentucky State University, a historically black university with around 2,000 students. High schoolers in the area can take dual enrollment courses at the university.
Kentucky State University in Frankfort has more than 135 full-time instructional faculty members and about 2,200 students.
The student population of The Frankfort Christian Academy is 255.
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Many miles to nearby airports in Lexington and Louisville
U.S. Route 421 runs through Frankfort, connecting into downtown Lexington, 25 miles away. It's usually a 40-minute commute. Lexington is home to the Blue Grass Airport, which offers domestic flights. Downtown Louisville is 55 miles away, typically an hour trip. Louisville has an international airport. Interstate 64 is just south of Frankfort, and is a major thoroughfare to get to both larger cities. Frankfort has its own hospital, the Frankfort Regional Medical Center.
Crime
Violent crime and property crime rates in Frankfort are slightly higher than the state and national average.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
Photography Contributed By
Ryan Minion
Video By
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Frankfort, KY sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Frankfort, KY over the last 12 months is $258,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
All showings to begin on starting Saturday @ 1:00pm Welcome to this charming and well maintained move in ready home offering the perfect blend of comfort, space and convenience! Featuring 4 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms on the main level this home boost over 2,000 square feet of finished living space, including a partially finished walk-out basement with a bedroom-ideal for guest ,home office or
Would you like to see yourself sitting on your deck or shoreline of a lake? Is moving into a fully renovated home checking one of your boxes? Would you like to have all new appliances with a 2-year warranty? Well, look no further, this home is situated in the Villages of Duckers Lake and offers lakeside living with easy access to Frankfort or Midway for shopping, dining and entertainment. Backing
Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home in the heart of Frankfort, Kentucky! Every detail has been thoughtfully updated, offering modern comfort and style while maintaining a warm, inviting feel. Step inside to discover brand-new flooring throughout and a fresh coat of paint that brightens every room. The completely updated kitchen features all-new cabinets and
Beautifully maintained ranch home situated on 2.751 acres at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. This 3 bedroom, 2 full bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and privacy with plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors. Thoughtfully updated and well cared for, the home features a functional layout ideal for everyday living. Step outside to a large deck overlooking a wooded lot, perfect for relaxing
Welcome to Arnold Ridge Estates—enjoy the charm of country living while being just minutes from town, near Peaks Mill Elementary and Cove Spring Park. Built in 2022, this 4-bedroom, 3 full bath home offers approximately 2,400 sq ft of well-designed living space with beautiful views and upgraded finishes throughout. Durable LVP flooring runs through the home, combining style and functionality. The
Welcome to 204 Village Drive, tucked into the Villages of Duckers Lake. This location makes your daily life easier while still offering a quiet place to come home to. The layout makes sense, the natural light shows off the space, and everything feels clean and ready for you to move right in. The main living areas are open and comfortable, giving you space to gather, relax, and actually enjoy
Welcome to Wellington Place, your maintenance free condo home featuring two large bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a half bath. Beautifully maintained and waiting for you to move in and enjoy this perfect condo. Some of the amenities are a private patio for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Don't miss this sweet home. Your HOA also includes a pool and outside grills as well as a club house.
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bath split foyer home nestled on a desirable corner lot! The heart of the home is a large, open kitchen with ample space for meal prep and entertaining, seamlessly connected to a bright and inviting living room—perfect for hosting gatherings. On the main level you'll find two comfortable bedrooms and a full bath, while the lower level offers even more
This exceptional 5-bedroom, 4-bath residence has been completely reimagined from the studs up, offering a true turnkey luxury experience on a spacious 0.75± acre lot. Featuring over 3,000 sq ft above grade plus a finished basement, the home showcases a refined open-concept design with elevated finishes throughout. The centerpiece is a designer kitchen with Amish-crafted cabinetry, quartz
Charming updated home located in the historic Barracks district just one block from the Kentucky State Capitol with rare off street parking and a detached garage in downtown Frankfort. Originally established in 1871, the Frankfort Barracks area is one of the most storied, significant, and walkable neighborhoods in the city. Inside the home you will find beautiful original hardwood floors,
This 3 bedrooms, 2 bath home is move in ready. Fresh paint, new carpet, new wooden deck. This is a must see! Full finished basement with new carpet and paint adds dimension and livability beyond the main and upper floors. The large private back yard is fenced and has a nice shade tree. The home has off-street parking with large double driveway and single car attached garage. It has lots of closet
**Attention a 10% Buyer's Premium will be added to any Offer Price**Welcome to this beautifully renovated home in the heart of Frankfort, where modern design meets everyday comfort. Thoughtfully updated throughout, this move-in-ready property features stylish finishes, an open and inviting layout, and a fresh, contemporary feel from top to bottom. Inside, you'll find luxury flooring, updated
Build your dream home on 3 to 20 beautiful acres. You choose! Have a homestead but be minutes to town! Less than a mile to Westridge Elementary School. Wild turkey and deer in your backyard and still minutes to Kroger West and the new Target development.
All showings to begin on starting Saturday @ 1:00pm Welcome to this charming and well maintained move in ready home offering the perfect blend of comfort, space and convenience! Featuring 4 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms on the main level this home boost over 2,000 square feet of finished living space, including a partially finished walk-out basement with a bedroom-ideal for guest ,home office or
This beautiful 4-bedroom home in Frankfort sits on a finished basement and backs to farmland. The heat and air are less than 1 year old. This move-in ready home was recently painted and has updated lighting fixtures throughout. Step into the foyer and you'll find that this home boasts a separate formal dining room and a formal living room, making it perfect for entertaining. The kitchen has
Riverford Crossing offers 1- and 2-bedroom apartments and townhomes in Frankfort, KY, served by the Franklin County Public Schools district. Two-bedroom townhomes include first-floor living space with bedrooms upstairs. These pet-friendly apartments welcome up to two pets per home, and dogs are welcome with access to an off-leash dog park. Apartment features include an in-home washer and dryer,
Welcome to this 2-bedroom, 2 bath single level home in Ridgeview. With over 1100 sq ft of living space this home features stainless steel appliances, tile floors in kitchen and baths, new carpet. A $22 application fee is required for each applicant over 18. Credit score, rental reference, background check and minimal monthly income (3x). No pets. $1395/mo and $1100 deposit. It is available now.
We are excited to announce our Phase II New Luxury Loft Apartments starting at $865 to go along with our Remodeled Apartments starting at $695.Juniper Hills Studio Apartments is conveniently located near the best that the Capitol City has to offer. Whether you enjoy shopping, dining or recreation, you have come to the right place. If you would like to take in a round of golf or hit the
Great location for this rehabbed 2 BR, 1 BA, two-story townhouse in a clean building located on the west side of Frankfort at 432 Harrodsburg Lane. Great proximity to Frankfort Regional Medical Center, Western Hills school complexes, I-64, and downtown Frankfort. Freshly painted with neutral colors, all new LVP on both floors with new carpets in the bedrooms and steps, and a large wood deck that
2 Bedroom, 1.5 Bath townhome with a one-car garage. Located in the Riverbend area, it provides quick access to US-127 and downtown Frankfort. This 1500+ square foot townhouse has extra large bedrooms and a large open living / dining area. Both bedrooms and the full bath are on the second floor. A one year lease is required. No pets are allowed at this location. Tenants pay utilities for
Huntley Ridge East is located at 3201 Georgetown Road Frankfort, KY and is managed by PMR Companies, a reputable property management company with verified listings on RENTCafe. Huntley Ridge East offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments .Amenities include Air Conditioner, Availability 24 Hours, Fireplace, Laundry Facilities, On-Site Maintenance and more. This rental community is pet friendly,
The office for Huntley Ridge East at Hanley Ln is located at 3201 Georgetown Road Frankfort, KY and is managed by PMR Companies, a reputable property management company with verified listings on RENTCafe. Huntley Ridge East offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments. Amenities include Air Conditioner, Availability 24 Hours, Fireplace, Laundry Facilities, On-Site Maintenance and more. This rental
"The Eyeglass" is a luxury two-bedroom, two-bath apartment located in the heart of Downtown Frankfort. This beautifully renovated space blends historic character with modern finishes and offers walkable access to restaurants, shops, and the many amenities that downtown living provides. The spacious open living area features a stunning exposed brick wall with historic architectural details, large
The office for Huntley Ridge East at Forest Hill is located at 3201 Georgetown Road Frankfort, KY and is managed by PMR Companies, a reputable property management company with verified listings on RENTCafe. Huntley Ridge East offers 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments. Amenities include Air Conditioner, Availability 24 Hours, Fireplace, Laundry Facilities, On-Site Maintenance and more. This rental
"The Traincar" is a luxury one-bedroom, one-bath apartment located on West Main Street in Downtown Frankfort. This beautifully renovated space offers modern living within walking distance of many restaurants, shops, and the many amenities that downtown living provides. The apartment features warm hardwood floors, large arched windows overlooking downtown, high ceilings, and modern finishes
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