December 2, 2025

Louisville Shows Improvement in Job Growth and Affordability

Louisville, Kentucky, December 2, 2025

Louisville, Kentucky has made substantial strides in job growth and affordability, surpassing peer cities in various economic metrics. The latest data reveals an 11% job growth from 2020 to 2025, indicating strong employment opportunities. Additionally, the city ranks among the most affordable across major metropolitan areas, making it an attractive option for residents and businesses alike. However, challenges in population growth, educational attainment, and property crime remain areas needing attention for continued progress.

Louisville, Kentucky

Job Growth and Affordability Metrics Show Improvement in Greater Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky has demonstrated significant progress in job growth and affordability, surpassing several peer cities in recent evaluations. The latest data highlights the region’s economic advancements and areas requiring further attention.

Key Economic Indicators

Job Growth: Louisville’s job growth in 2025 has moved up one spot from 2024, surpassing Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The job change percentage increased 11% from 2020 to 2025, a significant jump from a 4% increase from 2019 to 2024. This indicates a robust expansion in employment opportunities within the region.
Affordability: Louisville ranks among the most affordable cities in the United States. Compared to major metropolitan areas, Louisville’s cost of living is notably lower, with transportation and housing costs significantly less than cities like Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. This affordability enhances the region’s appeal for both residents and businesses.
Earnings Relative to Cost of Living: The region’s average household earnings, when adjusted for the cost of living, are strong compared to many peers. This suggests that residents enjoy a favorable balance between income and expenses, contributing to a higher quality of life.

Areas for Improvement

Population Growth: While Louisville continues to see steady population growth, it remains middle of the pack compared to peer regions in this area. This suggests that there is potential for further population expansion to support economic development.
Educational Attainment: The percentage of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher is 35%, compared to peer cities such as Nashville at 41.1%, Charlotte at 40.7%, and Columbus at 40%. Enhancing educational attainment could bolster the region’s competitiveness.
Property Crime Rates: Despite a decrease in violent crime rates, Louisville experienced a slight increase in property crime, moving the region down one spot in the rankings. Addressing property crime is essential for maintaining community safety and attractiveness.

Conclusion

Overall, Louisville’s economic landscape is improving, with notable advancements in job growth and affordability metrics. Continued efforts to address challenges in population growth, educational attainment, and property crime will further strengthen the region’s position among its peers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the current job growth rate in Louisville?

Louisville’s job growth in 2025 has moved up one spot from 2024, surpassing Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The job change percentage increased 11% from 2020 to 2025, a significant jump from a 4% increase from 2019 to 2024.

How does Louisville’s cost of living compare to other major cities?

Louisville ranks among the most affordable cities in the United States. Compared to major metropolitan areas, Louisville’s cost of living is notably lower, with transportation and housing costs significantly less than cities like Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

What are the key areas for improvement in Louisville’s economy?

Key areas for improvement include population growth, educational attainment, and property crime rates. Enhancing these aspects can further strengthen Louisville’s economic position among its peers.

Key Features of Louisville’s Economic Performance

Indicator	Louisville’s Performance	Peer City Comparison
Job Growth	11% increase from 2020 to 2025	Surpassed Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Affordability	Cost of living significantly lower than major cities like Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles	Ranks among the most affordable cities in the U.S.
Earnings Relative to Cost of Living	Strong average household earnings compared to many peers	Favorable balance between income and expenses
Population Growth	Steady growth, but middle of the pack compared to peer regions	Potential for further expansion
Educational Attainment	35% with a bachelor’s degree or higher	Lower than peer cities like Nashville (41.1%), Charlotte (40.7%), and Columbus (40%)
Property Crime Rates	Slight increase, moving down one spot in rankings	Addressing property crime is essential for community safety