St. Matthews

St. Matthews is one of Louisville’s most established and centrally located communities. Situated just east of downtown, it’s known for its tree-lined streets, mature landscaping, and convenient access to shopping, dining, parks, and major roadways. The area blends classic residential charm with everyday convenience, making it one of the most desirable and consistently sought-after places to live in Louisville.

Although commonly thought of as a neighborhood of Louisville, St. Matthews is actually a separately incorporated home rule-class city within Jefferson County. It operates its own city government and services while still being part of the Louisville Metro area. This unique structure gives St. Matthews a strong civic identity and a neighborhood-like feel, with the benefits of both a small municipality and metro connectivity.

Unlike newer suburban developments, St. Matthews is known for its long-established residential streets and architectural character. Traditional brick colonials, Cape Cod-style homes, mid-century ranches, and thoughtfully designed newer construction are all found here, often set among mature trees and generous sidewalks. Many residents appreciate the walkable, residential fabric paired with quick access to parks, schools, and everyday amenities.

St. Matthews is bordered by several separately incorporated cities with a similar residential charm and architectural style—such as Beechwood Village, Norbourne Estates, Bellewood, Richlawn, Windy Hills, and Maryhill Estates. These nearby communities are strictly residential and do not include the commercial districts that define St. Matthews; however, they share in the same mature, classic character and strong sense of place. Together, they form a cohesive part of Louisville’s east-end core while each maintaining their own identities.

Anchoring the community are the commercial corridors along Shelbyville Road and Breckenridge Lane, where you’ll find a mix of locally owned restaurants, cafes, bakeries, boutiques, and long-standing neighborhood businesses, alongside national retailers and major shopping destinations like Mall St. Matthews. Woodlawn Center, St. Matthews Station, and other smaller commercial pockets further contribute to the walkability and convenience the area is known for. Nearby parks—such as Brown Park, with easy access to Seneca Park and Cherokee Park—offer plentiful opportunities for recreation and greenspace.

With its combination of location, character, and convenience, St. Matthews appeals to a wide range of residents, from first-time homebuyers and young professionals to long-established homeowners and those looking to downsize while staying close to amenities. The blend of classic homes, civic independence, and proximity to everything Louisville offers has made St. Matthews one of the area’s most enduring and well-loved places to call home.