In Owensboro, the fourth-largest city in Kentucky, everything flows outward from the Ohio River. As one of the key population centers of life on the west side of the state, plenty Kenttucky's traditions are present, including bourbon distilleries, acclaimed barbecue restaurants and the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. But the city’s connection to the river, thriving industrial sector and mature home market provide a daily lifestyle that stands apart from other communities in the Bluegrass State. "It's a very friendly, welcoming community with a great riverfront and big city amenities," says Mark Calitri, the President & CEO of the Owensboro Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Audubon-Bon Harbor is bordered by the Ohio River.
Learn about the history of Jerry Garcia and Bluegrass at the Bluegrass Hall of Fame near Apollo.
1/2
Suburban living in Owensboro
Owensboro’s median home value of about $200,000 sits well below the state and national medians. The housing market consists almost entirely of single-family homes, with a mature selection of homes primarily dating from the 20th century. Ranch-style properties built from the 1950s to the 1990s are popular, but eagle-eyed homebuyers may also be able to find minimal traditional homes, bungalows, Cape Cods or Colonial Revival properties in central neighborhoods like Dogwood Azalea and Midtown East. Selected 1990s and 21st-century homes with new traditional styles are also rare finds.
The most affordable houses are north of West Parish Avenue.
Residents in Midtown East have access to many parks and recreational areas.
1/2
Teaching and learning at Owensboro Public Schools
Students in the Owensboro area are generally split between two school districts. Families within the Owensboro city limits are generally assigned to Owensboro Public Schools, which includes five elementary schools, two middle schools and a high school. The district earns a B-plus grade on Niche. Daviess County Public Schools earns a B-plus on Niche and includes the A-minus-ranked Tamarack Elementary School and Daviess County Middle School.
Tamarack Elementary School has students in PK, K-5th grades.
Daviess County High School has a 19 to 1 student to teacher ratio.
1/2
Leisure and life on the Ohio River
Close to the riverfront, Smothers Park was the first park established in Owensboro, offering prime sunset views of the water and the Owensboro Bridge. Just a few blocks down, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum celebrates Kentucky’s homegrown musical genre with rotating exhibits and live performances. Outdoor art and displays of brilliant plant life are common sights at the Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens. Cyclists and runners can get some exercise while traveling across the city along the trail of Adkisson Greenbelt Park, which spans 15 miles and encircles the city.
All four seasons are part of the outdoor experience in Owensboro. The city has warm summers and chilly winters with occasional snow, in line with the general weather patterns of greater Kentucky.
Western Kentucky Botanical Garden has scenic green space in Audubon-Bon Harbor.
Residents enjoy a lazy swing while overlooking the Ohio River.
1/2
Barbecue, small businesses and big box stores
Big box stores and the Malco Owensboro Cinema Grill are big draws on the east side of town near Leitchfield Road; familiar brands nearby include Walmart, Aldi and Menards. Varied small businesses line Frederica Street, where folks can also pick up groceries at Kroger. Diverse restaurants are peppered across town, but the city shares Kentucky’s statewide love for good barbecue; eateries such as Old Hickory Bar-B-Que in Wesleyan-Shawnee, Ole South Bar-B-Q on Leitchfield Road and Moonlite Bar-b-q Inn on Parish Avenue are local favorites.
Owensboro Health, US Bank Home Mortgage and Owensboro Public Schools are major employers in Owensboro. Toyotetsu Mid-America employs hundreds in automotive part manufacturing, while Specialty Food Group and Mizkan of America handle food production in town.
Owensboro Health Regional Hospital is the largest employer in the city of Owensboro.
Old Hickory Bar-B-Q, which has been an Owensboro staple since 1918.
1/2
Celebrating bluegrass music at the Romp Festival
Each summer, Yellow Creek Park hosts the Romp Bluegrass Festival, where local and nationally known bluegrass bands take the stage for a weekend of music. Summer also brings the Friday After 5 concert series into town, with multiple stages of live entertainment alongside vendors and exhibitions.
Additional yearly gatherings include BBQ & Barrels, a festival in early May celebrating two of Kentucky’s greatest claims to fame: bourbon and barbecue. Seasonal entertainment includes Hometown Christmas, the city’s holiday celebrations in Downtown Owensboro, and the All-American Fourth of July event at Smothers Park on the riverfront.
An actress portrays Aileen Minnich, a historical figure of the local area in Voices of Elmwood.
A local actor portrays Charles Werner, a Prussian immigrant during Voices of Elmwood.
1/2
Traveling around town via US-60
The Wendell H. Ford Expressway/US-60 is one of the key highways in Owensboro. It wraps around the outer city limits and connects to Kentucky Route 54 and important local roads such as New Hartford Road, Frederica Street and Carter Road. Locals here are about 40 miles southeast of Evansville, Indiana and 107 miles southwest of Louisville. Residents traveling without a car can catch Owensboro Transit System buses in town; the system operates nine routes across the city.
For medical emergencies, Owensboro Health Regional Hospital is on Pleasant Valley Road near the east side of the city. Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport is small with limited passenger services, but travelers can take Contour Airlines flights from there to Chicago to connect to other domestic and international hubs.
Important things to know
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, Owensboro generally has a higher rate of violent crime than national and state averages. Violent crimes reached a local high in 2022 but has declined since then. Property crimes have steadily fallen over the past decade, with a 27% decrease since 2016.
Written By
Tre Lyerly
Photography Contributed By
Andrew Nelson
Video By
Conar McDaniel
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mike Garant,
an experienced agent in this area.
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
On average, homes in Owensboro, KY sell after 37 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Owensboro, KY over the last 12 months is $210,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Well-maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home offering 1,668 sq ft on 1.073 acres with HVAC updated in 2022, water heater in 2019 and a new roof in 2025. The home features vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, separate laundry and a primary suite. Outside, enjoy the inground pool, hot tub with covered gazebo and covered back porch with wood-burning fireplace. The property
East county in Sterling Park!. Roof only 1 year old. Built in 2013 this 4 bedroom 2 full bath home with 2 car attached garage offers a split bedroom concept. Open floor plan boast fireplace in great room. Owners suite with trey ceiling, whirlpool tub, walk-in shower and walk-in closet on main level. 4th bedroom/bonus room upstairs. 9 ft ceilings. Engineered hardwood flooring. Kitchen offers
Welcome to 5130 Diamond Drive! This Craftsman-style, KSB-built home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 1,577 square feet of beautifully maintained, move-in-ready living space. The open-concept design features granite countertops, luxury vinyl flooring, ceramic tile in the primary suite, guest bath and laundry area, and a desirable split-bedroom floor plan for added privacy. The primary suite
Step into this beautiful Walnut Craftsman home, built in 2022 and thoughtfully updated to feel even better than new. Offering 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, the main floor features a spacious primary suite with a walk-in closet and ensuite bath, a kitchen with granite countertops and island, open living and dining areas, a convenient half bath, and a laundry room with custom cabinetry and shelving.
The Baywood is an excellent choice for first-time or downsizing buyers. This one-level home features a well-designed three-bedroom, two-bath layout. The split bedroom plan ensures optimum privacy, while the foyer opens into a welcoming family area and a charming eat-in kitchen. The owner's suite is a serene retreat with an ensuite bath and spacious walk-in closet.
The back deck is made of Brazilian ipe hardwood lumber. The master suite shower has seven heads with plenty of space. The upstairs tub is insulated so it keeps hot water longer. The floor in the master suite bath is heated and has a separate thermostat. The house has a water softener system and a tankless water heater. Gas logs with remote are in the front parlor and in the den as well. The
This well-maintained Owensboro home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and 1,537 sq. ft. of comfortable living space. With a functional layout and plenty of room to make it your own, this home is ready for its next owner. Whether you're looking for your first home, your next home, or simply a place with the space you need, this property is one you'll want to see in person. Seller is a licensed
Spectacular renovation in desirable Spring Bank! Brand-new entry doors welcome you into a soaring two-story foyer with a beautifully refinished staircase. The main level features all-new solid hardwood flooring, formal living and dining room, and a completely renovated kitchen with solid wood cabinetry, quartz countertops, and modern finishes. The inviting den offers cathedral ceilings and a
Have you been looking for something truly unique? Check out this newly renovated Mid-Century Modern home! Behind the Brutalist-inspired privacy wall on the front porch, step through the double turquoise doors and immediately enter an incredible, sun-filled space illuminated by a massive skylight with a power-operated sunshade. From there, you’ll find a newly renovated kitchen featuring
Welcome to 1522 W 4th Street in Owensboro, KY! Discover modern living in this beautifully constructed new-construction home, ideally situated in a convenient Owensboro location. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the attractive curb appeal, fresh design, and thoughtful attention to detail throughout. Step inside to an inviting open-concept floor plan featuring 9-foot ceilings, abundant
Welcome to 1516 W 4th Street in Owensboro, KY! Discover modern living in this beautifully constructed new-construction home, ideally situated in a convenient Owensboro location. From the moment you arrive, you'll appreciate the attractive curb appeal, fresh design, and thoughtful attention to detail throughout. Step inside to an inviting open-concept floor plan featuring 9-foot ceilings, abundant
There's a lot to like about this well-kept home in Keeneland Trace, from the easy one-level layout to the convenient location. The split-bedroom layout gives everyone their own space, while the open living area makes it easy to relax, entertain, or just enjoy everyday life. The primary suite has a walk-in closet and walk-in shower, and out back you'll find a fenced yard, covered porch, and extra
Introducing the Fontaine floor plan. A thoughtfully designed home offering a harmonious blend of comfort and style, boasting 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and the luxurious option of an additional bonus room with a powder bath. Step inside and discover the heart of the home: a sprawling, open-concept living space that seamlessly connects the living room, dining area, and kitchen. The kitchen, a
Introducing the Camelia Floorplan – where every corner exudes a sense of modern charm in this thoughtfully design. This meticulously designed home is not just a space; it’s a lifestyle. With 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 luxurious bathrooms, this home offers a perfect blend of private sanctuaries and inviting communal areas. Step into the large owner’s suite, a haven of tranquility, where serenity
ABOUT THE ANDOVER: Spectacular, easy living in this well thought out floor plan. The Andover plan welcomes the epitome of luxury living! This magnificent home boasts up to 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, thoughtfully designed for utmost comfort and style. Step into your serene sanctuary where modern elegance meets classic charm. Large windows throughout the home flood the space with natural light,
Legion Park Apartments just completed a 12 month renovation of the entire complex! Every unit has been updated from floor to ceiling including: new bathrooms, new flooring, new kitchens, new appliances, new central air and new lighting and fixtures....everything is BRAND NEW! You won't find a nicer place to live in a tremendous location! Act now these units won't last long! Heartwood
Brushwood Apartments in Owensboro, KY, offers two bedroom apartment homes and three bedroom townhomes to suit all of your individual and family needs. We offer furnished washer & dryers in every unit, fully equipped fitness center with after hour key-fob entry, private pool, private patio and balconies, and we are located directly on the Owensboro Greenbelt walking path.
Harmony is produced when one melody is blended with another, evoking a greater sense of emotion and depth in the listener. At Bluegrass Villas, we embrace this concept. Like a well sung three-part harmony, our 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments bring together the elements that transform your space into a home. By maximizing comfort, style, and breathability, each floor plan provides residents with a
Welcome to Kingston! Our complex has four buildings in total, with 48 units altogether. Each unit is professionally cleaned prior to move-in. We offer an on-site laundry facility. Please text management with any questions you may have!
Royal Arms boasts a professional staff that takes care of tenants' needs promptly. We are extremely experienced, friendly and fun! It's easy to make and keep lasting friendships at Royal Arms because most of our tenants are long-term. We have a pool and fitness center for your enjoyment. We also provide a 24 hr. courtesy officer. We're close to the greenbelt where you can walk, bike or jog. Once
18 unit complex 1 and 2 bedrooms units now under new ownership and management. Ambassador Villa is conveniently located in central Owensboro with easy access to dining options, churches, parks, and shopping!Rental Features18 Units1 & 2 bedrooms No on site laundryIncludes stove & Refrigerator Pets
New construction opening winter 2024Community of 128 unitsMix of 1 and 2 bedroom flatsLocated off of US-60 in Owensboro, KYWithin a mile of Owensboro Health Regional Hospital Within 5 miles of the Indiana borderDaviess County Public Schools: Meadow Lands Elementary, Daviess County Middle School, and Daviess County High School
This is a 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 2315 square foot home in Owensboro, Kentucky. The property has garage parking with one car garage, large multicar driveway spaces. Pet policy: no cats, small dogs allowed Appliances at the property include garbage disposal, dishwasher, microwave, exhaust hood, refrigerator, gas range. The property has heat pump heating and central cooling.
Don't miss out on this two bedroom/ one bathroom duplex! Centrally located in quiet neighborhood in Owensboro, KY. Features include eat-in kitchen, new paint and flooring throughout, lots of natural light, washer/ dryer hookup, new roof, and off street parking with private carport. Tenant pays utilities and maintains yard on their side of the duplex. No smoking. 12-month lease required initially.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
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.
