Baltimore, MD vs Lexington, KY: 84 vs 82

$1,290/mo ↑ 17%

Median Rent

$1,101/mo ↓ 15%

$59,623/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$67,631/yr ↑ 13%

$219,300 ↓ 19%

Home Value

$272,100 ↑ 24%

$1,333/mo ↑ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,160/mo ↓ 13%

577,193

Population

321,122

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Lexington, KY, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $189/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $2,268/year.

Median household income is $8,008/year higher in Lexington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $272,100 in Lexington.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Lexington — common questions

Is Baltimore or Lexington cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 84 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Lexington?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Lexington it's $1,101/month — a difference of $189/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Lexington?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $67,631 in Lexington. Median household income is $8,008/year higher in Lexington.

How do taxes compare between Maryland and Kentucky?

Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax.

Should I move to Baltimore or Lexington?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Lexington has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,101/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Lexington, KY (2026)

Baltimore

Lexington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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