Contouring the Ohio River, the city of Henderson in northern Kentucky is often described as “the city on the Ohio River but never in it” by locals — referring to its flood-free history. “Henderson is a smaller community that provides access to larger metro areas,” says Tammy Willett, Community Development Specialist for the City of Henderson. “We're only a 20-minute drive from Evansville.” Downtown Henderson is the greater Henderson area's premiere commercial and entertainment district. Primarily comprised of retail and office spaces, the majority of Downtown's buildings date back to the 19th century and feature Victorian-influenced designs. Single-family homes and apartment options are available here with most houses sporting wrap-around porches and balconies. A walkable area, residents here can explore Downtown's varied boutiques and restaurants by day, or head over to the Sunset District, early evening, to imbibe at one of nine local establishments. Residents also look forward to this riverfront community's many festivals, like the W.C. Handy Blues & BBQ Festival, held each June, the annual Bluegrass Festival held each August and the city's Fourth of July celebration. An urban community with a prime location in the heart of Henderson, the Downtown neighborhood is truly at the center of all this city has to offer.
Sunset Park is a family friendly playground on the waterfront.
Downtown Henderson is beautiful with a quaint home like vibe.
Henderson residents have a lot of community pride.
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19th-century Victorians and Colonial styles
The real estate market in Downtown Henderson is competitive because “There aren't as many housing options here compared to areas like Evansville,” says Jamie Young, Realtor with ERA First Advantage. “It’s currently a sellers market due to high interest rates and buyers are frustrated.” Most homes in Downtown were constructed in the late 19th century, resulting in designs ranging from American Foursquares, Colonials and Victorians to the more modern bungalow styles. With a median sales price of $230,000, homes here cost about $100,000 more than the average property sold in neighboring Evansville. For example, prices in Downtown can range from as low as $80,000 for a small ranch-style fixer-upper to upwards of $500,000 for a fully renovated five-bedroom Victorian. Homes are often fronted by mid-sized lawns with paved driveways and detached garages, and many homes feature prominent front porches, a design element integral to Kentucky and southern culture.
Most houses sport wrap-around porches and balconies.
Downtown Henderson homes have a median sales price of $230,000.
Homes are often fronted by mid-sized lawns with paved driveways and detached garages.
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Local grocers, boutiques and bites in the Sunset District
Groceries and everyday essentials are available off U.S. Route 41, which features stores like Sureway Supermarket, Walmart and Walgreens Pharmacy, all within 2 miles of the neighborhood. Larger retailers like Lowe’s, Big Lots and Ollie's Bargain Outlet are also available nearby. Local boutiques like Whims and Wishes, for crafted signs and painting parties, or the Olive + Mae Boutique, for a selection of clothing and apparel, are mainstays within the community. The Sunset District is where Downtown's nightlife comes alive. This distinguished strip of bars and restaurants spans several blocks and allows patrons to carry their purchased drinks with them from establishment to establishment. Dining options include Homer's Barbecue, which serves smoked meats and craft beers in a casual dining environment. The locally owned Hometown Roots offers southern-inspired meals, outdoor seating and weekly rotating specials. Rockhouse On The River is known for its waterfront views of the Ohio River and its famous strombolis, pizza and authentic Italian cuisine. With a casual ambiance, Rockhouse offers happy hour specials during every University of Kentucky football game.
Homer's Barbecue is serving up delicious smoked meats and savory sides.
Olive + Mae specialized in printing clothes representing local schools.
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Riverfront views at Audubon Mill Park
For some time outdoors, Central Park is within walking distance of many homes and has a mulched playground with swings, paved walking paths and picnic tables. Another option is Audubon Mill Park, which boasts a jungle gym, boat ramp and scenic views of the Ohio River. Audobon Mill's waterfront location also makes it ideal for several events held throughout the year, including the W.C. Handy Blues & BBQ Festival. Nearby, Atkinson Park is 2 miles east of the community and provides access to the popular RiverWalk, which extends 2.5 miles along the riverfront and connects residents to Downtown. The famous Ellis Park Racing & Gaming venue is 6 miles away, and features slot machines, simulcast wagering and live horse racing on their outdoor dirt track.
Central Park is a popular place for locals to bring their families for a fun day.
Audubon Mill Park is a great place on the waterfront for a cookout, boating, or a walk.
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The annual Bluegrass in the Park Festival
Every year, Downtown Henderson hosts the annual Bluegrass in the Park Festival throughout the second weekend of August. The festival is held at Audubon Mill Park, and features live bluegrass performances, local vendors and food trucks. A long-standing tradition since 1986 the Bluegrass in the Park Festival attracts nearly 4,000 attendees from across the US. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs as limited seating is available. Admission is free, however donations to the Bucket Shakes are appreciated.
High-marks at Henderson County Public Schools
Families in Downtown Henderson are zoned for Henderson County Public Schools. Students may attend Jefferson Elementary, Henderson County South Middle and Henderson County High School, which earn ratings of B-minus, A-minus and B from the review site, Niche. Jefferson Elementary School was constructed in 2022, features modern amenities and has a student-teacher ratio of 15:1. Henderson County South Middle offers a robust athletic program with a variety of sport options from cheer and cross country to soccer and basketball. Henderson County High School offers 32 AP courses to choose from, as well as its Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. The CTE program allows students to learn skills and earn certifications in a range of industries from automotive to construction and welding. “Henderson was home to the first person to celebrate Mother’s Day,” says Young. “Doors are open for women here and even the high schools are pushing for more in trade industries like welding and farming.” Private school options like Holy Name Elementary School, which serves kindergarten through Grade 8 is another option.
The student population of Jefferson Elementary School is 356 and the school serves K-5.
The student population of Henderson County South Middle School is 721 and the school serves 6-8.
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Nearby healthcare and public rides on the HART bus
Residents in Downtown Henderson rely on Green Street for easy access to U.S. Route 41 and neighboring areas like Audubon. Those seeking public transportation take the Henderson Area Rapid Transit (HART) bus, which operates throughout the community. When traveling further outside the neighborhood, the Evansville Regional Airport is 17 miles away. For healthcare, the Deaconess Henderson Hospital is less than a mile from the community.
Crime
Downtown Henderson’s CAP Index crime score is 6 out of 10, which is higher than the national average of 4.
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this neighborhood?
Reach out to
Erica Berendsen,
an experienced agent in this area.
Parks in this Area
Sunset Park
Audubon Mill Park
Central Park
Transit
Airport
Evansville Regional
28 min drive
Neighborhood Facts
Number of Homes in Neighborhood
41
Median Year Built
1910
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,620
Below the national average
1,924
Distribution of Home Values
Source: Public Records
Interested in learning more about homes in this neighborhood?
Reach out to
Erica Berendsen,
an experienced agent in this area.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
528
Median Age
38
Population under 18
26.5%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
18.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$36,428
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$59,252
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
83%
College Graduates
11.5%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
6.4%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
62.1%
Area Factors
Bikeable
Bike Score®
66/ 100
Somewhat Walkable
Walk Score®
69/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
