Houston, TX vs Lexington, KY: 88 vs 82

$1,313/mo ↑ 19%

Median Rent

$1,101/mo ↓ 16%

$62,894/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$67,631/yr ↑ 8%

$253,400 ↓ 7%

Home Value

$272,100 ↑ 7%

$1,316/mo ↑ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,160/mo ↓ 12%

2,300,419

Population

321,122

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Lexington, KY, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $212/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $2,544/year.

Median household income is $4,737/year higher in Lexington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $272,100 in Lexington.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over Kentucky's 4.0% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Lexington — common questions

Is Houston or Lexington cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Lexington?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Lexington it's $1,101/month — a difference of $212/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Lexington?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $67,631 in Lexington. Median household income is $4,737/year higher in Lexington.

How do taxes compare between Texas and Kentucky?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Lexington?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/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: Houston, TX vs Lexington, KY (2026)

Houston

Lexington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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