Independence Kentucky | Why It Feels Like Home

My husband and I have been together for 14 years, and in that time, we’ve owned four homes. Three of those homes were in Independence, Kentucky.

That’s not an accident.

He grew up in the small town of Rising Sun, Indiana, surrounded by several acres of land. The country has always felt like home to him. When we moved in together, he relocated to Northern Kentucky with me, and our first place together was in rural Covington, just outside Independence, Kentucky city limits.

Before long, we found ourselves naturally pulled into Independence. It’s where we grocery shopped, attended local events, and discovered our favorite coffee spots. Without trying, it became part of our everyday rhythm.

Different Houses, Same Independence Kentucky Community

Over the years, our housing needs changed — more space, different layouts, new phases of life. But one thing stayed consistent.

Each time we moved, we knew we needed a different house, not a different city.

Independence offered what we were looking for: a strong sense of community, genuine hospitality, and a culture that feels welcoming and connected. It’s the kind of place where you recognize faces, build routines, and feel comfortable putting down roots.

Community Pride Starts Early

One thing we’ve especially appreciated over the years is the emphasis Independence places on community involvement — particularly for kids.

Our children have participated in local youth sports, including soccer through the Independence Soccer Club and basketball through the Little Pioneers program offered by the Kenton County School District.

For our family, these programs have been about more than sports. They’ve provided opportunities for our kids to stay active, learn teamwork, and build friendships, while allowing us to connect with other families in the community. Seeing familiar faces on the sidelines season after season has been one more way Independence has felt like home.

It’s also no surprise that Independence celebrates patriotic holidays — and does it well. From Memorial Day to the Fourth of July, community traditions reflect a shared appreciation for service, history, and coming together as neighbors.

Honoring the Past While Building the Future

One of the things I love most about Independence is how it continues to grow while still honoring its roots.

The downtown historic district was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing the history that helped shape the community. Two historic homes were thoughtfully renovated — one converted into apartments and another restored to its original beauty as a single-family residence, including the well-known Oxley House.

At the same time, new development continues in ways that reflect the area’s character. A large local developer is currently working on the Downs of Nicholson, a project inspired by the look and feel of a Southern Kentucky horse farm. Growth here feels intentional, not rushed.

Schools, Growth, and Looking Ahead

One thing we’ve noticed over the years is how Independence continues to grow alongside the families who live here. As the community has expanded, so have the opportunities for connection, involvement, and everyday experiences that shape family life.

What we’ve appreciated most is the sense that the town is thinking about its future — investing in spaces where kids can learn, play, and grow, while still maintaining the character that makes Independence feel like home.

For our family, it’s been a place where we’ve been able to stay engaged, adapt through different stages of life, and feel supported as our needs have changed. Watching the community evolve while staying grounded is something we’re excited to continue being part of.

Why Independence Continues to Matter to Us

We’re proud to call Independence home, and we’re excited to see what the future holds. Living here has shaped our family’s story, and it’s also where I’m continuing to build my real estate business — working with people who care deeply about this community.

Some chapters are already written. Others are still unfolding.

And honestly, that’s what makes it special.