Taylor Mill, tucked away in Kenton County, Kentucky, sits just a stone’s throw from Cincinnati, making it a popular choice for commuters who prefer small-town living with big-city access. This community of roughly 7,000 residents offers a suburban feel with considerable green space, moderate amenities, and relatively affordable housing compared to Cincinnati proper. While not the flashiest suburb in the Greater Cincinnati area, Taylor Mill has cultivated a reputation as a quiet, family-friendly community where neighbors tend to know each other. The city has experienced modest growth in recent years without sacrificing its small-town charm.
Is Taylor Mill safe?
Taylor Mill boasts a safety record that many residents proudly highlight when discussing their community. The area experiences notably lower crime rates than many parts of Kentucky, with violent crime being particularly uncommon.
The Taylor Mill Police Department maintains a visible presence throughout the community, especially along the main thoroughfares like Taylor Mill Road (KY-16). Local officers are known for their community engagement, often participating in neighborhood events and school programs.
Property crimes occasionally occur, primarily in the form of car break-ins near shopping areas, but these incidents tend to be sporadic rather than systematic. The neighborhoods deeper into residential areas report even fewer issues with crime.
Many residents leave their doors unlocked and allow children to play outside unsupervised – a telling indicator of the community’s overall sense of security.
Is Taylor Mill a nice place to live for families?
Taylor Mill has developed a reputation as a family-centric community, with nearly half of households including children under 18. The combination of affordable housing, decent schools, and community events makes it particularly appealing to young families.
Schools
Taylor Mill falls within the Kenton County School District, offering parents several solid educational options. Donald E. Cline Elementary serves many Taylor Mill families and has earned respectable scores on state assessments. The school is known for its active PTA and community involvement.
Woodland Middle School provides a supportive transition between elementary and high school, with a range of extracurricular activities and sports teams.
For high school, most students attend Scott High School, which offers comprehensive academic programs including AP courses and vocational tracks. While not ranking among the top-tier schools in the Cincinnati metro area, it provides a solid education with strong community support.
Some families opt for nearby private options, with Beechwood Elementary and High School in Fort Mitchell being particularly popular choices for those willing to make the short drive and pay tuition.
Family Activities
Pride Park serves as the recreational hub for Taylor Mill families, featuring playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and a splash pad that becomes a magnet for families during summer months. The park hosts community events throughout the year, including movie nights and seasonal festivals.
The city’s recreation committee organizes family-friendly events like the annual Easter egg hunt and summer concert series that bring neighbors together.
For indoor activities, the nearby Florence Y’all area offers additional entertainment options including bowling, movies, and indoor play centers – all within a 15-minute drive.
Is Taylor Mill expensive?
Taylor Mill offers a relatively affordable housing market compared to Cincinnati’s trendier neighborhoods, though prices have increased steadily in recent years. The average home price hovers around $255,000, making it more expensive than many Kentucky communities but still a bargain compared to Cincinnati neighborhoods like Mt. Adams or East End, where prices can exceed $500,000.
Housing inventory tends to be limited, with homes often selling quickly when listed. The most affordable options in Taylor Mill are typically older ranch-style homes built in the 1960s and 1970s, especially in neighborhoods off Taylor Mill Road.
Newer developments near Pride Park command higher prices, often in the $300,000-$350,000 range for larger family homes. These neighborhoods feature more modern amenities and larger lot sizes.
Rental options are somewhat limited, with few apartment complexes in the city proper. Available rentals average around $1,100 monthly, which is higher than much of Kentucky but reasonable for the Cincinnati metro area.
Budget-conscious buyers might consider nearby Latonia or parts of Covington, where home prices can drop below $150,000, though these areas generally don’t offer the same suburban feel or school options.
What transport links are there?
Taylor Mill’s transportation infrastructure revolves primarily around cars, with Interstate 275 providing quick access to Cincinnati and the broader region. Most residents commute by car, with average drive times to downtown Cincinnati ranging from 15-25 minutes depending on traffic.
Public transportation options are limited. The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK) operates only limited service to Taylor Mill, with Route 25 running along KY-16. This route connects to the Covington Transit Center, where passengers can transfer to other routes serving Greater Cincinnati.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area but may have longer wait times than in more densely populated areas.
For air travel, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is approximately 20 minutes away by car, offering convenient access for travelers.
Cycling infrastructure is minimal, with few dedicated bike lanes, though the less-traveled residential streets can be suitable for recreational riding.
What amenities are available in Taylor Mill?
Taylor Mill offers a modest selection of amenities that cover basic needs, though residents often venture to nearby communities for more extensive shopping and dining experiences.
The dining scene includes local favorite Knuk-N-Futz, known for its casual atmosphere and pub fare. Chain options include LaRosa’s Pizza, McDonald’s, and Skyline Chili – a Cincinnati regional staple. El Jinete provides Mexican cuisine, while Dunkin’ serves coffee and breakfast options.
For groceries, Remke Markets serves as the primary supermarket, offering a full selection of food and household items. United Dairy Farmers provides convenience store options and is known for its ice cream.
Healthcare services include several doctor’s offices and dental practices, though residents typically travel to Edgewood or Covington for specialized care and hospital services. St. Elizabeth Healthcare facilities are within a 15-minute drive.
The city has basic services like a hair salon and veterinary care, but lacks the variety of retail shopping found in larger communities. Most residents travel to Florence or Newport for more extensive shopping options.
What is the surrounding outdoor area like?
Taylor Mill benefits from Kentucky’s natural beauty, with rolling hills and wooded areas integrated throughout the community. Pride Park serves as the city’s main outdoor recreation space, with sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths.
The nearby Doe Run Lake offers fishing opportunities and scenic trails just minutes from most Taylor Mill neighborhoods. The lake is stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish, making it popular with local anglers.
For more extensive outdoor adventures, the 10,000-acre Kincaid Lake State Park is about an hour’s drive away, offering camping, boating, and miles of hiking trails.
The Ohio River is just a few minutes north, with riverside parks in Covington and Cincinnati providing additional recreational options. Devou Park, about 15 minutes away, offers hiking trails, golf, and spectacular views of the Cincinnati skyline.
So, what’s the verdict?
Taylor Mill represents a solid middle-ground option for those seeking affordable suburban living with easy access to Cincinnati. Its strengths lie in its safety, family-friendly atmosphere, and relative affordability compared to Cincinnati proper. The limitations in amenities, public transportation, and school options are balanced by the community feel and natural surroundings. For families and professionals prioritizing a quiet lifestyle with city access, Taylor Mill delivers good value.
What are the alternatives?
Fort Mitchell offers similar suburban appeal with higher-rated schools and more amenities, though at higher housing prices. Erlanger provides comparable affordability with more shopping options but less green space. For those willing to cross the river, Cincinnati neighborhoods like Delhi Township offer similar price points with better public transportation. Covington presents a more urban alternative with historic architecture, walkability, and vibrant dining scenes, though with more variable school quality and higher crime rates in some areas.
