Chicago, IL vs Lexington, KY: 100 vs 82

$1,380/mo ↑ 25%

Median Rent

$1,101/mo ↓ 20%

$75,134/yr ↑ 11%

Median Income

$67,631/yr ↓ 10%

$315,200 ↑ 16%

Home Value

$272,100 ↓ 14%

$1,502/mo ↑ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,160/mo ↓ 23%

2,707,648

Population

321,122

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Lexington, KY, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $279/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $3,348/year.

Median household income is $7,503/year higher in Chicago. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $272,100 in Lexington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Lexington — common questions

Is Chicago or Lexington cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Lexington?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Lexington it's $1,101/month — a difference of $279/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Lexington?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $67,631 in Lexington. Median household income is $7,503/year higher in Chicago.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Kentucky?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Lexington?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/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: Chicago, IL vs Lexington, KY (2026)

Chicago

Lexington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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