Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Owensboro, KY
Considering a move to Owensboro, KY? With about 60,000 residents, Owensboro offers affordable living with a median home price around $157,000 and average rent at $840. Commutes are a breeze at just 17 minutes, and the city boasts a friendly small-town vibe. Enjoy four distinct seasons, a low cost of living index, and access to local colleges and health care. While crime rates are slightly above national averages, Owensboro’s vibrant arts scene, family-friendly amenities, and welcoming community make it a great choice for those seeking value and comfort.
Demographics - Owensboro, KY
Demographics - Owensboro, KY
Owensboro is home to about 60,000 residents, featuring a predominantly White population alongside a small but diverse mix of other backgrounds. The median age of 39 suggests a balanced community of working professionals and families, and the city has a moderate population density that supports both urban amenities and a relaxed pace of life.
Population:
60,183
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.1
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
85.3%
Black:
7.4%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Owensboro, KY?
Living in Owensboro is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $157,000. Residents enjoy reasonable utility costs and low state tax rates, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$156,900
Gross Rent:
$840
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
5.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.6
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
64.3
Utilities:
98.2
Transportation:
81.5
Health Care:
89.6
Miscellaneous:
88.1
Crime
Is Owensboro, KY a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Owensboro are somewhat higher than national averages, with residents experiencing a 1 in 308 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 47 chance of property crime. While caution is advised, many neighborhoods remain friendly and community-oriented.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
325
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,120
Crime Index:
2,445
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 308
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Owensboro, KY year-round?
Owensboro experiences four distinct seasons, offering mild winters with lows near 28°F and warm summers reaching up to 88°F. The city receives about 48.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny weather 57% of the year, ideal for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
28°F
Max:
43°F

Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Local households in Owensboro have a median income of $51,200, though the city’s poverty rate is slightly above average at 18.7%. Most residents commute about 17 minutes to work, and educational attainment is strong, with nearly 89% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$32,600
Household Income:
$51,200
Family Income:
$64,800
Per Capita Income:
$27,300
Income Male:
$42,900
Income Female:
$32,600
Poverty Rate:
18.7%
Non English Speakers:
4.7%
Rent:
$840
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
16.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.9%
Bachelors or More:
21.8%
Education
How are the schools in Owensboro, KY?
Owensboro boasts a strong educational network, including well-rated public and private schools and access to local colleges such as Owensboro Community & Technical College and Brescia University. Families benefit from supportive learning environments and a variety of academic opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Owensboro High School
Street:
1800 Frederica St
Phone:
270-686-1111
Students:
1,190
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Name:
Burns Middle School
Street:
4610 Goetz Dr
Phone:
270-852-7400
Students:
970
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1

Private Schools
Name:
Owensboro Catholic High School
Street:
1524 W Parrish Ave
Phone:
270-684-3215
Students:
540

Colleges
Name:
Owensboro Community & Technical College
City:
Owensboro
State:
KY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,200
Name:
Brescia University
City:
Owensboro
State:
KY
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,110
Healthcare
Owensboro provides quality healthcare with two major hospitals, including an award-winning regional facility and a dedicated rehabilitation center. The city benefits from 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of over 91%.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Owensboro Health Regional Hospital
Address:
1201 Pleasant Valley Rd, Owensboro, KY 42303
Phone:
(270) 417-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Owensboro
Address:
2200 E Parrish Ave, Owensboro, KY 42303
Phone:
(270) 688-8000
Type:
Rehabilitation
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.3%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Owensboro, KY?
The housing market in Owensboro is favorable for buyers and renters alike, featuring a median home price of $156,900 and average two-bedroom rents at $840. Homeownership rates are solid at nearly 59%, and the area has seen steady appreciation, making it a stable investment.
Median Home Price:
$156,900
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$840
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Owensboro residents are served by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s Division of Driver Licensing, with statewide services accessible online or at the main office in Frankfort. Local DMV resources ensure convenient access for licensing, vehicle registration, and related needs.
State:
Kentucky
Department:
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet - Division of Driver Licensing
Address:
200 Mero Street, Frankfort, KY 40622
Phone:
502-564-1257
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.