Small-town life with access to essential services
Madisonville evolved from a rail hub and coal mining town into a suburban retail center just off Interstate 69. The city's 19,300 residents have access to Baptist Health Deaconess, a 410-bed hospital with a critical care unit, a cardiac care center and an award-winning women’s health facility that is also a major employer. “It’s a very friendly community,” says Realtor Cindy Mckenzie, who sells homes with Coldwell Banker Terry & Associates. “A lot of people who move here either grew up in the area and came to start families or are coming to work at the teaching hospital.” Aside from the hospital, employment options are primarily the school district and local retailers.
Early 20th-century housing
The median single-family home price is about $195,000, which aligns with the state median and about half the national median of around $400,000. Prices range from $90,000 for fixer-uppers to $650,000 for newer construction and recently renovated homes. There is a mix of Victorian-era houses, American Craftsman bungalows and mid-century ranch styles.
Severe weather events have impacted real estate in the area. In 2005, a tornado destroyed many homes, causing $31 million worth of damage. Ice storms can also damage the city’s infrastructure.
Plenty of access to outdoor recreation
Madisonville has several public parks within walking distance of residents. These green spaces offer access to dog parks, playgrounds, fishing lakes and various sports courts. On the city’s northwest corner, the 265-acre Mahr Park Arboretum has fishing ponds, miles of walking trails and access to Lake Peewee, where people can launch canoes and fish. Lakeshore Country Club’s 18-hole private golf course also overlooks the lake.
Above average scores at Hopkins County Public School District
Hopkins County Public School District has a B Niche rating and an 88% graduation rate. The district’s math and reading proficiencies are above the national average. Its reading proficiency is above the state average, and its math proficiency is in line with the state average. The city is also home to Madisonville Community College, which has about 2,700 students and 240 academic and administrative staff members.
Restaurants and retail on Main Street and Center Street
Retail and dining options are somewhat limited, but all the necessities are available. Main Street is lined with fast-food franchises, coffee shops and craft beer spots. Center Street has fast-food franchises and local Mexican spots. The city also has several big-box grocery stores.
Community theater and college classes
The Glema Mahr Center for the Arts hosts professional musicians and local theater, while the community college offers drawing, gardening and dance classes for all.
Getting around the area
Madisonville does not have public transportation, so residents rely on cars. Interstate 69 runs from north to south through the city, taking people 39 miles north to Henderson. Nashville International Airport is 110 miles southeast of the city via Pennyrile Parkway and Interstate 24.
According to FBI crime data, Madisonville’s violent and property crime rates are below state and national rates. The city’s property crime rates have declined precipitously in the decade, and its violent crime rate has also decreased.
Written By
William Palicia
