St. Matthews is the 20th largest city in Kentucky, and is a prominent suburb of Louisville. It is located 8 miles east of downtown Louisville in Jefferson County. It is one of the state's major shopping areas, being home to 2nd and 5th largest malls in Kentucky (Mall St. Matthews and Oxmoor Center) along with many smaller shopping centers along Shelbyville Road.
In 2003, St. Matthews became part of the new Louisville Metro government. However, it remains an independent city with its own mayor and emergency services and is not counted in Louisville's population although its citizens can vote for Louisville Mayor and Metro Council members.