Louisa is surrounded by natural beauty on U.S. Route 23
Louisa is a mostly rural community on the banks of the Big Sandy River, which forms the Kentucky-West Virginia border. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, the town offers both small-town living and forested countryside properties. “Some people want to be near town, but we do have a lot of people that come for the seclusion and natural beauty,” says Sabrina May, a Louisa resident and local real estate agent at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Redd, Brown & Williams. “Topographically, it’s a very hilly and mountainous region, and that factors into price. If it’s on the hillside or usable for farming — it all depends on what the buyer is looking for.” Though it feels remote, Louisa has a strong community with many annual events, and easy access to nearby cities on Route 23.
A wide range of home styles and lot sizes
Most homes date to the latter half of the 20th century, including minimal traditional ranch-style homes and cottages, as well as some brick-built new traditional homes with steeply gabled roofs. Residential development has continued into the 21st century with modern farmhouses in suburb-style developments. Properties near the center of town tend to be close set along narrow streets without sidewalks, though lots get larger and more manicured farther out towards the town’s edges. Outside town limits, the region’s hilly topography, winding country roads and forested landscape created a secluded feel with more space for things like hobby farms. Prices generally range from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on acreage and the home’s condition. Homes close to the river might be at risk of flooding during heavy storms, and mortgage lenders may require flood insurance.
Most outdoor recreation is found at Yatesville Lake State Park
Main Street Park is located in the center of town, offering a peaceful green space with a picnic shelter and water fountain. Louisa City Pool opens from May to August, often hosting public and private parties. Yatesville Lake State Park is about 10 miles west, on the banks of its namesake body of water. The park is especially popular for bass fishing and camping, and also has over 20 miles of multiuse trails. Home to all sorts of wildlife, the lake draws local birdwatchers who come to spot warblers, cardinals and wild turkeys. The Yatesville Lake Golf Course has an 18-hole layout that’s open to the public.
Lots of community-focused local and county-wide events
Louisa hosts all kinds of events throughout the year, including several that celebrate Route 23’s history as a hotbed for country and bluegrass musicians. The annual Septemberfest features two days of live music, along with other events like pageants, car shows and a parade through town. Louisa is also a stop on the Heritage Harvest Tour, a self-guided tour through Lawrence County that takes place every September. “Small businesses throughout the county all open up with artisan vendors, churches open up for breakfast and dinner,” May says. “It’s a really nice way for people who aren’t from here to grab a map, start driving and get to know the area.”
Local schools offer agriculture classes and after-school programs
Louisa West Elementary earns a B-minus from Niche, serving kindergarten through first grade. Students can then move on to the C-plus-rated Louisa East Elementary until fifth grade. Louisa Middle and Lawrence County High both earn a C-plus. The latter offers carpentry, health science and business education pathways. The school’s agriculture program includes a wide range of courses in horticulture and animal science, as well as a Future Farmers of America chapter.
Shops in town and restaurants near the highway
There’s a small Main Street area near the river with a few local businesses, though most restaurants are found closer to the highway. Down Home Grill serves homestyle diner fare for breakfast and lunch, while Toro Loco is a staple for Mexican food. Local grocery stores include Food City and Walmart.
Driving to Ashland and Huntington on Route 23
Route 23 is the area’s main highway, leading about 30 miles to Ashland and Huntington. Lexington, the nearest major city, is about 140 miles away. Three Rivers Medical Center serves the community, located on Louisa’s south side, and Huntington Tri-State Airport is about 25 miles away.
