Bowling Green, KY Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Bowling Green, KY: Everything You Need to Know

Bowling Green is a city in southern Kentucky and the seat of Warren county. It’s home to Western Kentucky University, one of the largest universities in the state.

Local History

In 1796, brothers George and Robert Moore chose an area along the Barren River for a settlement. In 1798, county commissioners decided to call the new town Bowling Green, after a park in New York City where patriots had pulled down a statue of King George III and used the lead to make bullets during the American Revolutionary War. With the construction of railroads in Kentucky in the mid-19th century, Bowling Green became a port city and agricultural community.

Job Opportunities

The city’s economy is fueled by manufacturers such as GM Corvette Assembly Plant and Holley Performance Products (automotive products). Fruit of the Loom, a global manufacturer of casual apparel and underwear, is based in the city. It owns the Fruit of the Loom, Vanity Fair, Russell Athletic, Jerzees, and Spalding clothing brands. Other top employers are Western Kentucky University (4,646 employees), The Medical Center at Bowling Green (2,222 employees), and BG Metalforming LLC (1,498 employees).

Schools and Higher Education

Western Kentucky University (WKU) is a significant part of community life. The university offers 93 academic majors and has 19,456 students. There are 62 other universities within 100 miles of the city. In primary and secondary education, Bowling Green’s 43 public schools have an average math proficiency score of 48% compared with the Kentucky average of 47%, and reading proficiency score of 58%, higher than the 56% statewide average. The total enrolment for the system is 18,538 students.

The Cost of Living in Bowling Green 

If you’re looking for a small city that packs a punch, Bowling Green (population: 70,543) could be the place for you. Its cost of living rate, food, and housing costs are 10.3%, 28.3%, and 29.9% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent in the city is $756. Everyone pays a 5% income tax rate in Kentucky and a sales tax of 6%. The state levies an inheritance tax. 

Know Your Neighborhoods

WKU brings diversity and energy to the city, according to residents. For those who live in downtown neighborhoods, the iconic Fountain Square, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, offers a front seat to parades, festivals, and other community events. The majority of Bowling Green residents are renters. Looking for a suburban haven? Smiths Grove and Plano are within commuting distance of Bowling Green, and they are known for their top-ranked schools.