Versailles, Kentucky isn’t your typical small town. Located just west of Lexington in Woodford County, this community of roughly 9,000 residents offers a distinct blend of rural charm and modern convenience. The town strikes a balance between preserving its historic character and embracing growth. Locals enjoy the tight-knit community feel, but newcomers should know that Versailles isn’t without its challenges – limited nightlife options and a somewhat homogeneous cultural scene might not appeal to everyone.
Is Versailles safe?
Safety is one of Versailles’ strongest selling points. The community generally experiences lower crime rates than Kentucky state averages, with violent crime being particularly uncommon.
The neighborhoods around Mortonsville and the Bonita area stand out as especially secure parts of town, with minimal reports of property crime and virtually no violent incidents.
The western portion of Versailles occasionally sees higher rates of property crimes like theft, though these remain relatively minor compared to larger cities.
Local police maintain a visible presence in the community, and many residents report feeling comfortable walking around town even after dark – something that can’t be said for all Kentucky communities of similar size.
That said, like any town, Versailles isn’t crime-free. Occasional car break-ins do occur, particularly in areas with less lighting or surveillance.
Is Versailles a nice place to live for families?
Families flock to Versailles for good reason. The combination of affordable housing, community-focused events, and quality schools makes it particularly appealing to those with children.
Schools
Versailles is served by the Woodford County School District, which maintains a solid reputation in the region.
Huntertown Elementary School stands out as one of the district’s strongest performers, with dedicated teachers and strong parental involvement. The school’s recent facility upgrades have impressed many local families.
Southside Elementary offers solid educational foundations, though some parents mention class sizes have grown in recent years as more families move to the area.
Woodford County Middle School provides a smooth transition between elementary and high school years, with strong extracurricular programs in music and athletics.
Woodford County High School sends a respectable percentage of graduates to college each year and offers solid AP course options, though some families wish for more diverse elective offerings.
The private school options are somewhat limited compared to neighboring Lexington, with most families choosing the public school system.
Family Activities
The community hosts regular family-friendly events throughout the year, from summer concerts in the park to holiday parades that draw the whole town.
Woodford County Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities that stay busy on weekends with local families.
The local library runs excellent children’s programming, including story times and summer reading challenges that keep kids engaged.
The proximity to horse farms provides unique opportunities for families, with many offering tours and riding lessons for children.
Is Versailles expensive?
Housing costs in Versailles run significantly higher than Kentucky averages, with the typical home price around $325,000. This represents a substantial premium compared to many other parts of the state.
The upscale Westmorland neighborhood tops the local market with homes frequently selling above $600,000, offering larger lots and newer construction.
Similarly, the Beaumont area commands premium prices, with its attractive homes and convenient location.
More affordable options exist in neighborhoods like Holiday Hills, where homes typically sell in the low $200,000s, offering solid value for first-time buyers.
The rental market reflects similar patterns, with the average apartment renting for around $1,100 monthly – noticeably higher than many Kentucky communities of similar size.
Housing availability has improved recently, with more options on the market than typical for a town this size.
Many residents find the premium worth paying, citing the strong schools, low crime, and overall quality of life as justification for the higher housing costs.
What transport links are there?
Transportation is where Versailles shows its rural roots. Public transit is extremely limited, making car ownership essentially a necessity for residents.
The Bluegrass Parkway provides quick access to Interstate 64, putting Lexington within a convenient 20-minute drive for most residents.
Commuting to Lexington is common, with many residents making the daily drive for work. Traffic flows relatively well during rush hour, though construction can occasionally cause delays.
Cycling within town is feasible on quieter streets, but dedicated bike lanes are limited.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area but may have longer wait times than in larger cities.
For air travel, residents rely on Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport, about 15 miles away.
What amenities are available in Versailles?
Versailles offers the essentials without the overwhelming options of larger cities. The downtown area features a charming mix of local businesses and historic architecture.
Grocery options include McLane Cumberland for basic needs, while several convenience stores like Fast Stop and Estepp’s provide quick shopping alternatives.
The restaurant scene is dominated by casual eateries and fast food, including Little Caesars Pizza. Local favorites include small family-owned restaurants serving comfort food and Southern specialties.
Medical services are available through local doctor’s offices, though specialized care typically requires a trip to Lexington.
The town has basic services like barber shops, auto repair, and banking, covering day-to-day needs for most residents.
The Woodford County Library serves as a community hub, offering programming for all ages and access to technology.
What Versailles lacks in big-box retail, it makes up for in community character – expect to know your local shop owners by name after living here for a while.
What is the surrounding outdoor area like?
The natural beauty surrounding Versailles is one of its strongest assets. The rolling Bluegrass countryside creates a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities.
Woodford County Park’s large pavilion hosts community events throughout the year, while its walking paths and sports facilities draw regular users.
The area’s horse farms create a distinctive landscape, with miles of white fencing and manicured pastures visible from many local roads.
Falling Springs Recreation Center offers indoor swimming and fitness facilities for those looking to stay active during Kentucky’s hot summers or chilly winters.
Proximity to the Kentucky River provides opportunities for fishing, while nearby bourbon distilleries offer tours that showcase the region’s heritage.
So, what’s the verdict?
Versailles delivers a high quality of life for those seeking small-town atmosphere with reasonable access to urban amenities. The excellent schools, low crime, and beautiful surroundings make it especially appealing to families, though the higher housing costs and limited entertainment options may deter some. For those who value community connection over urban convenience, Versailles hits the sweet spot.
What are the alternatives?
Neighboring Midway offers similar small-town charm with a slightly more tourism-oriented downtown, though housing inventory is more limited.
Lexington provides significantly more amenities, diversity, and employment opportunities just 20 minutes away, but comes with higher crime rates and busier streets.
Georgetown balances a growing economy thanks to Toyota’s manufacturing plant with relatively affordable housing, though its rapid growth has created some growing pains.
Lawrenceburg offers more affordable housing options with a similar small-town feel, though schools don’t quite match Woodford County’s reputation.
