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.
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Frankfort, KY sell after 31 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Frankfort, KY over the last 12 months is $265,000, up 7% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Fully renovated and move-in ready, this beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1 car garage home offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and historic charm in the Heart of Frankfort, Kentucky. Every detail has been thoughtfully upgraded & completely rebuilt from inside out, offering a rare opportunity to own a like-new home in a well-established residential neighborhood. New features include:
Welcome home to this beautifully renovated 4 bedroom 3 bath home at the Village at Duckers Lake . This exceptional property offers lovely views, generous living spaces, and a lifestyle of comfort and convenience. The heating system, air conditioning, and roof are all just 2 years old, providing comfort and efficiency for years to come. The updated kitchen features new appliances, stylish
Charming and thoughtfully updated, this South Frankfort home blends historic character with meaningful modern improvements. Recent updates include a newer HVAC system, roof replacement, refinished hardwood floors, and a carefully restored exterior painted in historically appropriate colors. Exposed fireplaces add warmth and character throughout the home, while the inviting front porch offers a
Welcome to 1039 Riverbend Drive! This well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the kind of space and layout that just makes everyday living easy, plus recent updates that give you peace of mind from day one including a new dishwasher, garage door, flooring and much more! Step inside and you'll notice the natural flow between the main living areas with plenty of room to spread out while still
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
Nestled on approximately 1.65 picturesque acres, this beautifully maintained custom home offers the tranquility of a rural setting with convenient access to Frankfort, Georgetown, Lexington, and Interstate 64. Designed around a popular Frank Betz floor plan, the home features the convenience of primarily one-level living with more than 2,200 square feet on the main level, while a private
Well cared for brick ranch that is move in ready! Pretty home with shiny hardwood floors and 10ft ceilings in dining and living room plus living room has a stacked stone fireplace with gas logs. Classy eat in kitchen has gorgeous cabinets and extra built-in cabinets that have a hideaway place for the washer and dryer to fit right in and close with no-one guessing they are there (washer/dryer stay
Tucked inside the gated Two Creeks community within Frankfort Country Club, this spectacular custom-built estate at 238 Duntreath Street delivers luxury, elegance, and exceptional craftsmanship at every turn. Situated on a quiet street with stunning golf course views, this meticulously maintained home offers over 6,500 square feet of beautifully finished living space across three levels. From the
Well, honey, come on in! This sweet 1.5-story home at 1036 Keeneland Court is just as charming as the quiet little street it sits on. Tucked inside a friendly HOA community in Frankfort, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath beauty offers 1,406 square feet of cozy, move-in ready living and she is dressed to impress with fresh paint from top to bottom! Settle into the living room where vaulted ceilings give it
Fully renovated and move-in ready, this beautifully updated 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1 car garage home offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and historic charm in the Heart of Frankfort, Kentucky. Every detail has been thoughtfully upgraded & completely rebuilt from inside out, offering a rare opportunity to own a like-new home in a well-established residential neighborhood. New features include:
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
Discover the perfect blend of country living and outdoor recreation on this 6 acre tract located just inside Shelby County, Kentucky, only minutes from the Franklin County line. Whether you're ready to build your dream home or looking for a peaceful weekend escape, this beautiful property offers the ideal setting. The property is home to abundant wildlife, with frequent deer sightings, making it
Discover the perfect blend of privacy, recreation, and opportunity on this 45.89± acre tract located just inside Shelby County, Kentucky, only minutes from the Franklin County line. Whether you're searching for a weekend getaway, a premier hunting property, or the ideal location to build your forever home, this versatile property offers something for everyone. Loaded with an impressive population
Discover the perfect combination of privacy, recreation, and opportunity on this 16± acre tract located just inside Shelby County, Kentucky, only minutes from the Franklin County line. Whether you're looking for the perfect place to build your dream home, create a weekend getaway, or enjoy your own private hunting property, this versatile tract offers endless possibilities. Known for its abundant
BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VISTA! This's what surrounds this stunning 42.5 acre farm located in a highly desirable area of Franklin County. Rich in history and close to major shopping centers, golf courses and Elkhorn Creek, which is known for small mouth bass fishing and kayaking, this property features a one-owner traditional home built in 1992. Step inside and discover welcoming spaces including a
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 FarmStead Apartments and Townhomes in beautiful Frankfort, KY, now under new management! We're excited to bring fresh energy and extensive renovations to these classic apartments and townhomes, restoring their charm with updated amenities and modern touches. Choose from our spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans, with pet-friendly options for your furry companions. Select homes
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
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 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
If you like your coffee bold, this may be your next apartment! BrokenFork is excited to open the doors to the Rick House! Freshly renovated by BrokenFork. Featuring beautiful, concrete stamped flooring and concrete counters, new appliances & sleek LED lighting. You'll appreciate the sleek hues we have in store for you. Laundry Room on site. Come be a part of our growing Rick
Willowood is located at 220 Tupelo Trail Frankfort, Kentucky in the 40601 zip code. Our single-story, garden-style apartments are located in a park-like setting very close to major shopping centers and highways. Our apartment homes are all electric, cable ready and feature vaulted ceilings, fully furnished kitchens, and attic storage! We are also pet friendly. You will truly feel at home in our
Located in Frankfort, Riverview Apartments offers exceptional residences with all the amenities you want. Our newly updated studios, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom apartment homes feature hardwood floors, standard kitchen appliances, updated countertops, cabinets, and more. Residents appreciate our on-site laundry facilities, on-site management and maintenance teams, courtyard, playground, and
Welcome to Winthrop CourtWinthrop Court is located in Frankfort, KY, just minutes from the state capital, with major employers in the area such as Kentucky State University, University of Kentucky (Lexington), Topy and the Kentucky State Government. We are also located near Lexington Metro Market. We offer many flexible lease terms for our Studio, 1 & 2-bedroom apartments to suit your
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