Lexington, KY vs Salem, OR: 82 vs 105

$1,101/mo ↓ 17%

Median Rent

$1,323/mo ↑ 20%

$67,631/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$71,900/yr ↑ 6%

$272,100 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$382,400 ↑ 41%

$1,160/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,440/mo ↑ 24%

321,122

Population

176,666

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Salem, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $222/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $2,664/year.

Median household income is $4,269/year higher in Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $382,400 in Salem.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Salem — common questions

Is Lexington or Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Salem?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Salem it's $1,323/month — a difference of $222/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Salem?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $71,900 in Salem. Median household income is $4,269/year higher in Salem.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and Oregon?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/mo, while Salem has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,323/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Lexington, KY vs Salem, OR (2026)

Lexington

Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons