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First of all, thank you all for your warm replies and preemptive welcomes! They are really appreciated. . I have done similar posts like this in other forums as we are currently looking for a place in the immediate future and no responses have been as well, kind, as yours. . That is something I am liking, definitely. .
I heard quite a bit about Louisville and have done more research as far as the demographics and have been seeing some positive things - especially in the way of other gay folks. .That is inspiring since it is in the bible belt and not somewhere I would necessarily expect it.
Thanks for those links - They are really good to look at for perspective!
Hit it right on the nose! Santa Cruz! haha
I really did appreciate your response - a lot actually as the other places you have lived have been on my list to check out, and as someone from Cali, your opinion is valid for fellow Californians.. I myself, have moved around quite a bit and have never really looked at Cali as being my permanent (though I am from Santa Cruz and live here now), I guess honestly I feel like I don't have that great of an advantage here as far as opening a business or buying a house. They go for $700k where I am and really, this is the only town in CA I would consider living in. I generally avoid the larger cities like SF and LA. They are nice for a visit and good for music/food/nightlife but none of those are life and death to us. I really want us to go somewhere we can buy a home and have a chance for success without risking it all and ultimately I know that place isn't this state as I have traveled extensively in CA.
Your insight on culture and water really did hit a cord for me though. I like to be immersed in culture and have options, something Santa Cruz doesn't provide. I also really like water and that is a need I have. I love lots of water, rivers, lakes and such. I am kind of tired of the reservoir thing - reminds me of Denver and Colorado in general. . That is all I seemed to see and go to while living out there. So thank you for sure Albert, much appreciated. Maybe we can connect on the Twin Cities as that is another possible option. . (though that Winter man. . I don't know)
I have looked at a few places in this area such as Chattanooga, Asheville, Greenville and the nature amenities they have sound relatively ideal for what we are wanting. Does Louisville compare on that front? Or compare in general really?
I love how much historical architecture there is in Louisville too! I have always wanted to live in a historical home - The houses in Old Louisville are like my literal dream when it comes to architecture and style. . And the pricing on Real Estate out there is absolutely insane compared to here. . Blows my mind. Is investing in an older property a good idea in Louisville or is there a stigma that comes with it??
How is the Salon Industry out there. . I obviously know this is an industry based off customer service, but are Salons a utilized business out there? Are they a dime a dozen or more sporadically placed?
Is the city Vegetarian friendly? I lived in Portland, OR for a while and it looked like Louisville was dubbed the new Portland, but I want to know from the people in what ways that is true?
Thanks again for all your guys' help - You are a stand out group thus far.
-Brian
Louisville is not as mountainous but is also much bigger than any other appalachain city you mentioned...bigger airport, closer to cool big cites like Chicago, etc.
Louisville is easily a top 20 foodie city, blowing your other options out of the water. Asheville is a cool town; Louisville is a good 3 times larger. Louisville has plenty of the same hiking, biking, and canoeing opportunities with the major Parklands initiative and the largest urban municipal forest on the USA.
Nopne of those cities have urban parks like Cherokee or Waterfront, which are more "big city" parks.
This is just a few things to get your feet wet. Tons more where it came from. I would come out, rent an apartment for a month, and if you like it, then stay. I would look at lower Highlands or Old Louisville.
800 k gets you a SICK house in an amazing walkable urban area:
I'm an LA native and live in SF for 3 years, now living in Louisville. I haven't been here that long, but I do like the city. I love that I can actually afford to go out to eat and do other things without having to worry as much about money.
Places like The Highlands and St. Matthews offer a lot of the more local bars, restaurants, and shops that we're used to in California. It's not like the stereotypical south here where all you have are some Chili's and Chick-fil-A and TGI Friday's in a strip mall connected to Wal Mart and Best Buy. Bardstown Road through the Highlands and Frankfort Ave through St. Matthews are like any other small California town's downtown with all local establishments. There is also a Trader Joe's which was a huge selling feature for me.
As a young person, all my friends are also young so the whole gay thing means nothing to them. However, I do have to watch myself around people about 35+. I've had a few Uber drivers who were clearly homophobes and I've definitely gotten the vibe off of a few waiters that they're not down with the gays. Mind you, I'm not into the gay scene whatsoever, so I've never had a real problem...yet. That said, don't leave Louisville. Get 20 minutes outside the city, and yes, you're in Kentucky! In the city though, you will no problem being a gay man. The Highlands has a lot of people with the alternative look also. Tattoos, piercings, facial hair, kinda hipster thing going on. Louisville really is its own little bubble within Kentucky. However, I prefer the liberalism here. It's just plain being liberal, not the in-your-face righteousness of SF liberalism. Even my registered Republican friends are at least socially liberal and pro-gay marriage, even if they're all for lower taxes and banning abortions. But at least we don't have to worry about that second one
I can't comment on the nature thing, because I'm a city boy. But I know there's a few lakes in Southern Kentucky that people go boating at and I've heard there's some mountains (I'm sure hills by CA standards) for winter snowboarding a few hours away.
I know you said you've been told about the other smaller cities like Asheville and Chattanooga, but what about Lexington? Yes, it is smaller, and it comes with the downsides of being smaller, but if you like Santa Cruz over SF, you may prefer Lexington over Louisville simply for the size factor. They actually have an openly gay mayor there also. The college town vibe does prevail giving it a very liberal feeling, but it is still a sizable city so as that not all business and housing is geared towards students.
Everyone from Kentucky that has ever though about leaving or did actually leave loves Charleston, SC and Nashville. Both are more expensive, though.
Summary of my post is yes, you will probably like Louisville. I can't make any promises, but I think with what you're looking for, and the fact that I know the lifestyle and liberalism you're looking for, I can confidently say you won't completely hate it here. You should visit and see for yourself. Might not be your perfect place, but you won't hate it.
Location: New Albany, Indiana (Greater Louisville)
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Louisville doesn't have true mountains nearby but it is ringed but forested hills which have lots of hiking trails. It's not Yosemite but there are lots of great places to take a 45 minute hike after work. Floyds Fork creek in eastern Jefferson Co is excellent for canoeing. There is a good number of bike trails and more being built. It is still a very affordable city outside the luxury apartments / condos in some parts of the East End. But even in the rich areas you can find good deals.
Ultimately not everyone likes every place the same, I'd recommend you visit for a while to decide rather than just moving here and hoping. A lot of people really like Louisville, some hate it, some are indifferent.
One of the best summations I have ever read in this forum
If I was even semi-literate, this is what I would put in all of these kinds to inquiries . . .
Quote:
Originally Posted by jessemh431
I'm an LA native and live in SF for 3 years, now living in Louisville. I haven't been here that long, but I do like the city. I love that I can actually afford to go out to eat and do other things without having to worry as much about money.
Places like The Highlands and St. Matthews offer a lot of the more local bars, restaurants, and shops that we're used to in California. It's not like the stereotypical south here where all you have are some Chili's and Chick-fil-A and TGI Friday's in a strip mall connected to Wal Mart and Best Buy. Bardstown Road through the Highlands and Frankfort Ave through St. Matthews are like any other small California town's downtown with all local establishments. There is also a Trader Joe's which was a huge selling feature for me.
As a young person, all my friends are also young so the whole gay thing means nothing to them. However, I do have to watch myself around people about 35+. I've had a few Uber drivers who were clearly homophobes and I've definitely gotten the vibe off of a few waiters that they're not down with the gays. Mind you, I'm not into the gay scene whatsoever, so I've never had a real problem...yet. That said, don't leave Louisville. Get 20 minutes outside the city, and yes, you're in Kentucky! In the city though, you will no problem being a gay man. The Highlands has a lot of people with the alternative look also. Tattoos, piercings, facial hair, kinda hipster thing going on. Louisville really is its own little bubble within Kentucky. However, I prefer the liberalism here. It's just plain being liberal, not the in-your-face righteousness of SF liberalism. Even my registered Republican friends are at least socially liberal and pro-gay marriage, even if they're all for lower taxes and banning abortions. But at least we don't have to worry about that second one
I can't comment on the nature thing, because I'm a city boy. But I know there's a few lakes in Southern Kentucky that people go boating at and I've heard there's some mountains (I'm sure hills by CA standards) for winter snowboarding a few hours away.
I know you said you've been told about the other smaller cities like Asheville and Chattanooga, but what about Lexington? Yes, it is smaller, and it comes with the downsides of being smaller, but if you like Santa Cruz over SF, you may prefer Lexington over Louisville simply for the size factor. They actually have an openly gay mayor there also. The college town vibe does prevail giving it a very liberal feeling, but it is still a sizable city so as that not all business and housing is geared towards students.
Everyone from Kentucky that has ever though about leaving or did actually leave loves Charleston, SC and Nashville. Both are more expensive, though.
Summary of my post is yes, you will probably like Louisville. I can't make any promises, but I think with what you're looking for, and the fact that I know the lifestyle and liberalism you're looking for, I can confidently say you won't completely hate it here. You should visit and see for yourself. Might not be your perfect place, but you won't hate it.
How is the Salon Industry out there. . I obviously know this is an industry based off customer service, but are Salons a utilized business out there? Are they a dime a dozen or more sporadically placed?
Hi Brian,
Welcome to the forum. I hope you find what you are looking for. Most of the people on this forum are friendly and have great information.
I wondered are you a Cosmetologist? You mentioned about Salons as an industry, is this your line of work? I am a cosmetologist, and I must tell you that Kentucky does not have reserprocity (spelling!!!), with any state no matter how many hours you're bringing in. You would be required to take the practical and written exam at boards in order to get a cosmetology license in the state of Kentucky. It's a drag, and I have no idea why they operate that way. It cost 120.00 to apply for boards for an out of state license. Boards are held in Frankfort for the entire state.
There are several high end salons (also spas) in the larger cities, and many chain type operations as well. Booth rental is allowed in this state, so this an option too. I've seen most salons located near the shopping districts, and some of the chain types do seem like they are just here and there.
Hi Louisville,
I am looking to make a big move possibly to your city while coming from the California coast and one of the most liberal cities in the nation. I am curious about Louisville because I am really wanting to end up and settle somewhere where I a can open a small business, own a home, possibly raise a kid and not lose my proverbial 'Life' over it. . California, and especially where we are, is extremely over-priced and it is just way to hustle bustle for us.
I guess ultimately what I am wanting to know is - is Louisville, being as progressive of a city it seems, progressive in other ways - I am a young gay adult man with a partner of 10 years. We are not the type of gay men who over use PDA's and feel the need to prove a point with our lifestyle, we are very comfortable and confident both in who we are. Neither of us are big partiers, need clubs, gay pride or really any amenities like that. We just know that we are humans and we are who we are.
We are what some would view as 'Alternative' being that we have tattoos and probably definitely reek of a California "style" (thought not an aire), but I am sure Louisville has folks like this as well. . ?
I am just not so familiar with the South. I have been through a couple times but never long enough to gauge what it would be like to live there. I don't want to sound like a fool but does Louisville have the same stigma that a lot of the South carries in its tolerance of others who have 'alternative' lifestyles?
I know that Louisville can be called the most Northern South or the most Southern North, but I am just overall curious and intrigued.
I know I will get recommendations to check out other cities like Asheville but from what I have read/heard is that some places like Asheville (smaller college towns) don't have a diverse economy and that finding a job there is hard. I want to start a successful business so I am looking for somewhere that is moving forward economically and Louisville sounds like it could be that. There are other things I am interested in as well, such as the general area. . Outdoor activities, nature, and what other amenities the State of Kentucky has to offer!
Just thought reaching out for a public opinion would be a great way to get an understanding of what appears to be a beautiful area!
Thanks Louisvillians ,
Brian
Louisville(and Newport) are the gateway to the south, Louisville is a blend of the surrounding states as far as north/south/midwest/east still attitude, it's a melting pot, one of the cities people move to from other places, I'd say it's one of the top cities, even though people may not recognize the city as such a hub. It does not copycat places like Alabama, or Arkansas, and people are mostly treated more fairly for the most part, but no city is a paragon of tolerance however. You might think it's cheaper to live here, and as long as you make a living wage- it is.
You might enjoy Teddy Bears, it's a hole in the wall gay club, completely opposite of the Connection, Play, and even Tryangles, it's almost like Moe's Tavern of the Simpsons, and Cheers, except on Karaoke night, although it's still the same people, it's just a little more ruckus. Just stay away from Connections and Play, if you don't want to have over priced drinks, and nothing but Dubstep, and techno. I insist, as family, you go to Pride at least once, and it's free entry if you go to the free aids check booth, or 5 bucks.
As far as your "Alternative lifestyle," you'll be fine, especially on Bardstown RD, and NULU area, the city is full of Goths, Hipsters, Punks, Hippies, Emos, LGBT. MY advice is to look on the LEO Weekly and Velocitys websites for the goings on, you'll get bored in this city pretty easy, as large as it is, you can see it, and all the conventional stuff in a month or two, the best part of this city is all the secret stuff that goes on at the small bars, art galleries, and etc. that doesn't get coverage for the "normal" masses. Speaking of art galleries, don't forget to stop by the Craft Gallery on fridays and get a drink from my girlfriend, on fourth and chestnut, and don't forget to tip the bartender...
I'll probably get shouted down for this post (that's what usually happens), but what the hell. I usually just keep my mouth shut and let the love fest run its course, but if you're a gay man in the Bay Area, there's a good chance my wife and I have mutual friends with you, and I couldn't keep my mouth shut this time. If you're really interested in Louisville, come out for a couple of weeks (long enough for the initial charm to wear off) and spend some real time here. Who knows - you may fall head over heels in love with the place, and think I'm a total idiot (like most of the posters who like it here think). Many people here really do love the place, and while I don't, I totally respect their point of view. We just see the place differently, and want different things from the place we live.
This may the home you've been looking for your entire life, and if it is, good for you and your partner. I hope you're very happy. Just know that there's another side to the coin, one you don't often see expressed on this forum.
But good luck with whatever you decide to do. By the way, if arts and culture are important to you, have you considered Nashville at all? It's a fantastic town; the LA of the South in my opinion. If the properties we own were located in that area rather than the Louisville area, I'd be writing this post from a completely different perspective. I only mention it because if you haven't considered it, it may be something worth thinking about.
Don't keep your mouth shut, many people can't stand this city,, sometimes I can't stand it. I still wouldn't live anywhere else, while some people just want to leave.
First of all, thank you all for your warm replies and preemptive welcomes! They are really appreciated. . I have done similar posts like this in other forums as we are currently looking for a place in the immediate future and no responses have been as well, kind, as yours. . That is something I am liking, definitely. .
I heard quite a bit about Louisville and have done more research as far as the demographics and have been seeing some positive things - especially in the way of other gay folks. .That is inspiring since it is in the bible belt and not somewhere I would necessarily expect it.
Thanks for those links - They are really good to look at for perspective!
Hit it right on the nose! Santa Cruz! haha
I really did appreciate your response - a lot actually as the other places you have lived have been on my list to check out, and as someone from Cali, your opinion is valid for fellow Californians.. I myself, have moved around quite a bit and have never really looked at Cali as being my permanent (though I am from Santa Cruz and live here now), I guess honestly I feel like I don't have that great of an advantage here as far as opening a business or buying a house. They go for $700k where I am and really, this is the only town in CA I would consider living in. I generally avoid the larger cities like SF and LA. They are nice for a visit and good for music/food/nightlife but none of those are life and death to us. I really want us to go somewhere we can buy a home and have a chance for success without risking it all and ultimately I know that place isn't this state as I have traveled extensively in CA.
Your insight on culture and water really did hit a cord for me though. I like to be immersed in culture and have options, something Santa Cruz doesn't provide. I also really like water and that is a need I have. I love lots of water, rivers, lakes and such. I am kind of tired of the reservoir thing - reminds me of Denver and Colorado in general. . That is all I seemed to see and go to while living out there. So thank you for sure Albert, much appreciated. Maybe we can connect on the Twin Cities as that is another possible option. . (though that Winter man. . I don't know)
I have looked at a few places in this area such as Chattanooga, Asheville, Greenville and the nature amenities they have sound relatively ideal for what we are wanting. Does Louisville compare on that front? Or compare in general really?
I love how much historical architecture there is in Louisville too! I have always wanted to live in a historical home - The houses in Old Louisville are like my literal dream when it comes to architecture and style. . And the pricing on Real Estate out there is absolutely insane compared to here. . Blows my mind. Is investing in an older property a good idea in Louisville or is there a stigma that comes with it??
How is the Salon Industry out there. . I obviously know this is an industry based off customer service, but are Salons a utilized business out there? Are they a dime a dozen or more sporadically placed?
Is the city Vegetarian friendly? I lived in Portland, OR for a while and it looked like Louisville was dubbed the new Portland, but I want to know from the people in what ways that is true?
Thanks again for all your guys' help - You are a stand out group thus far.
-Brian
If being a vegetarian is your thing, you won't starve in this city, as far as an older home, there is a mansion for sale on 6th and Hill, that is still a one family home, if you aren't too picky, there are probably tons of "classic" shotgun houses for sale, lol. We have the largest collection of victorian homes(not all are in old louisville), and the largest amount of shotgun houses.
I'm an LA native and live in SF for 3 years, now living in Louisville. I haven't been here that long, but I do like the city. I love that I can actually afford to go out to eat and do other things without having to worry as much about money.
Places like The Highlands and St. Matthews offer a lot of the more local bars, restaurants, and shops that we're used to in California. It's not like the stereotypical south here where all you have are some Chili's and Chick-fil-A and TGI Friday's in a strip mall connected to Wal Mart and Best Buy. Bardstown Road through the Highlands and Frankfort Ave through St. Matthews are like any other small California town's downtown with all local establishments. There is also a Trader Joe's which was a huge selling feature for me.
As a young person, all my friends are also young so the whole gay thing means nothing to them. However, I do have to watch myself around people about 35+. I've had a few Uber drivers who were clearly homophobes and I've definitely gotten the vibe off of a few waiters that they're not down with the gays. Mind you, I'm not into the gay scene whatsoever, so I've never had a real problem...yet. That said, don't leave Louisville. Get 20 minutes outside the city, and yes, you're in Kentucky! In the city though, you will no problem being a gay man. The Highlands has a lot of people with the alternative look also. Tattoos, piercings, facial hair, kinda hipster thing going on. Louisville really is its own little bubble within Kentucky. However, I prefer the liberalism here. It's just plain being liberal, not the in-your-face righteousness of SF liberalism. Even my registered Republican friends are at least socially liberal and pro-gay marriage, even if they're all for lower taxes and banning abortions. But at least we don't have to worry about that second one
I can't comment on the nature thing, because I'm a city boy. But I know there's a few lakes in Southern Kentucky that people go boating at and I've heard there's some mountains (I'm sure hills by CA standards) for winter snowboarding a few hours away.
I know you said you've been told about the other smaller cities like Asheville and Chattanooga, but what about Lexington? Yes, it is smaller, and it comes with the downsides of being smaller, but if you like Santa Cruz over SF, you may prefer Lexington over Louisville simply for the size factor. They actually have an openly gay mayor there also. The college town vibe does prevail giving it a very liberal feeling, but it is still a sizable city so as that not all business and housing is geared towards students.
Everyone from Kentucky that has ever though about leaving or did actually leave loves Charleston, SC and Nashville. Both are more expensive, though.
Summary of my post is yes, you will probably like Louisville. I can't make any promises, but I think with what you're looking for, and the fact that I know the lifestyle and liberalism you're looking for, I can confidently say you won't completely hate it here. You should visit and see for yourself. Might not be your perfect place, but you won't hate it.
Louisville doesn't have true mountains nearby but it is ringed but forested hills which have lots of hiking trails. It's not Yosemite but there are lots of great places to take a 45 minute hike after work. Floyds Fork creek in eastern Jefferson Co is excellent for canoeing. There is a good number of bike trails and more being built. It is still a very affordable city outside the luxury apartments / condos in some parts of the East End. But even in the rich areas you can find good deals.
Ultimately not everyone likes every place the same, I'd recommend you visit for a while to decide rather than just moving here and hoping. A lot of people really like Louisville, some hate it, some are indifferent.
Some of the knobs down in SW Jefferson county, Bullit, Hardin and Nelson counties are pretty steep in spots, Muldraugh hill is no slouch either....
For the record, my moms from Kentucky and Chic-Fil-A is one of her all time favs lol. Me too, I like Chic-Fil-A and so did my Argentine wife as well when I brought her to the US and Ky the first time.
My wife and I are pretty laid back, simple, easy going folks. Were not above going to the usual restaurants, however its nice if we ever wanted to have a special night out and do something unique seems Louisville has some pretty interesting places to consider.
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