| Document and Entity Information | Oct. 23, 2019 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 23, 2019 |
| Entity Registrant Name | STOCK YARDS BANCORP, INC. |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | KY |
| Entity File Number | 001-13661 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 61-1137529 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1040 East Main Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Louisville |
| Entity Address, State or Province | KY |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 40206 |
| City Area Code | 502 |
| Local Phone Number | 582-2571 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000835324 |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock |
| Trading Symbol | SYBT |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
