London, Kentucky sits nestled in the heart of Laurel County, offering a small-town atmosphere with enough amenities to keep residents comfortable. This southeastern Kentucky town of roughly 8,000 residents provides a slower pace of life compared to larger urban centers, with significantly lower cost of living than many parts of the country. While London doesn’t boast the excitement of metropolitan areas, it compensates with community charm and natural beauty. The town serves as a regional hub for the surrounding rural areas, providing essential services while maintaining its small-town identity.
Many locals appreciate London’s balance of having necessary amenities without big-city problems. The downtown area has seen revitalization efforts in recent years, though some residents note the town still lacks certain entertainment and dining options available in larger cities. For those considering a move to London, understanding both its strengths and limitations is essential to determining if it matches your lifestyle needs.
Is London safe?
London maintains a relatively good safety record compared to many Kentucky communities. The town experiences mostly property crimes rather than violent offenses, with theft being the most common complaint among residents.
The safest residential areas tend to be in the northern parts of town near Baldrock and in the established neighborhoods around Hightop. These communities feature well-maintained properties and active neighborhood watch programs.
Areas with higher crime rates include sections of Fariston and parts of London West, particularly near some of the older apartment complexes. Local law enforcement maintains a visible presence throughout the town, with the London Police Department and Laurel County Sheriff’s office working collaboratively.
Residents generally report feeling safe walking downtown during daylight hours, though some express caution about certain areas after dark. The town’s small size means police response times are typically quick compared to larger cities.
Is London a nice place to live for families?
London offers a family-friendly environment with several advantages for those raising children, though it does have limitations compared to larger communities.
Schools
The public school system in London receives generally positive reviews from parents. London Elementary School stands out for its dedicated teachers and strong parent involvement. Bush Elementary and Wyan-Pine Grove Elementary also maintain good reputations with solid academic programs and extracurricular activities.
For middle and high school education, students typically attend South Laurel or North Laurel schools. Both middle schools offer comprehensive programs with sports and clubs. North Laurel High School has recently expanded its advanced placement course offerings, giving students more college preparation opportunities.
Private school options are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas, forcing some families to consider schools in neighboring communities if they prefer alternatives to public education. This can mean longer commutes for students seeking specialized programs.
Family Activities
London offers several family-oriented recreational spaces. The town hosts community events throughout the year, including seasonal festivals and youth sports leagues. The local YMCA provides various programs for children of all ages.
The family demographic is strong in London, with many neighborhoods filled with children. This creates natural social opportunities and play groups. However, some parents note the town lacks certain specialized activities found in larger cities, occasionally requiring trips to Lexington or Knoxville for specific experiences.
Is London expensive?
London remains one of Kentucky’s more affordable places to live, with housing costs below state averages. The typical home price hovers around $175,000, making homeownership accessible to many working families.
Housing costs vary significantly by neighborhood. The Reservoir area commands premium prices, with homes often selling above $500,000 due to larger lots and newer construction. Similarly, the Crestwood-Hinda Heights section features more upscale housing options.
Budget-conscious buyers often look to areas like Jamestown and River Park, where decent homes can be found for around $200,000-$225,000. These neighborhoods offer good value while still providing access to town amenities.
The rental market in London is active, with apartments and houses available at rates below state averages. A typical rental costs around $800 monthly, making it accessible for many working residents. Availability is generally good, with various options across different neighborhoods.
For those seeking even lower housing costs, communities just outside London proper offer additional savings, though they require a short commute to access town amenities.
What transport links are there?
Transportation in London centers primarily around personal vehicles. The town sits at the intersection of I-75 and the Hal Rogers Parkway, providing good highway access to surrounding areas. Most residents commute by car, with average drive times to work typically under 20 minutes.
Public transportation options are limited. The Rural Transit Enterprises Coordinated (RTEC) provides some bus service, though routes and times are restricted compared to larger urban systems. Many residents find this inadequate for daily commuting needs.
For regional travel, London is well-positioned. Lexington is about an hour’s drive north, while Knoxville lies approximately 1.5 hours south. This makes weekend trips or specialized shopping excursions manageable for residents.
The London-Corbin Airport offers limited commercial service, though most residents drive to Lexington or Knoxville for more flight options. For non-drivers, transportation can be challenging, as walking infrastructure is limited to the immediate downtown area.
What amenities are available in London?
London provides the essential amenities needed for comfortable living, though variety is more limited than in larger cities.
The dining scene features a mix of chain restaurants and local establishments. Fast food options dominate, including McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Dairy Queen. Golden Corral offers a buffet option popular with families. Coffee lovers can visit the local Dunkin’ for their caffeine fix.
Grocery shopping needs are primarily served by Kroger, which offers a full selection of products. Specialty food items can be found at La Mexicana store, while Spring Valley Farm Market provides fresh local produce in season.
Healthcare facilities are reasonably comprehensive for a town of London’s size. The area has multiple medical practices, several pharmacies, and dental offices. Saint Joseph London hospital provides emergency services and various specialties, though complex cases may require travel to larger medical centers.
Other amenities include several hair salons, a few barber shops, veterinary services, and fitness options. The town has essential services like post offices and banks conveniently located for residents.
What is the surrounding outdoor area like?
London’s natural surroundings represent one of its strongest assets. The town serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation throughout the region.
Within town limits, Whitley Branch Veterans Park offers walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. Families particularly enjoy London Rotary Children’s Park with its playground equipment. Dixie Street Park and Blue Star Memorial Park provide additional green spaces for residents.
Just a short drive away, Daniel Boone National Forest offers extensive hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. The nearby Laurel River Lake is popular for boating, swimming, and fishing during warmer months.
The world-famous Cumberland Falls, known for its moonbow phenomenon, lies within easy day-trip distance. Rock climbers and hikers often visit the Red River Gorge area, about an hour’s drive from London.
These natural attractions provide year-round recreational opportunities that many residents cite as a major benefit of living in the area.
So, what’s the verdict?
London offers an affordable, family-friendly environment with good schools and abundant outdoor recreation. The trade-offs include limited dining and entertainment options, minimal public transportation, and fewer specialized amenities compared to larger cities. For those seeking a slower pace with strong community ties and natural beauty, London provides good value and quality of life. However, residents who crave urban excitement or specialized career opportunities might find the town limiting.
What are the alternatives?
Those considering London might also explore nearby Corbin, which offers similar affordability with a slightly different mix of amenities. Somerset provides more lakeside recreation options while maintaining small-town charm. For those wanting more urban amenities while staying in eastern Kentucky, Richmond offers a college-town atmosphere with expanded shopping and dining. Residents seeking significantly more urban experiences would need to consider Lexington, about an hour north, which provides comprehensive amenities but at higher living costs.
