Cost of Living: Lexington, KY vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Lexington

Kentucky
82
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Lexington is 9% cheaper than Spokane.

$1,101/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↑ 4%
$67,631/yr ↑ 3%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↓ 3%
$272,100 ↓ 17%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 20%
$1,160/mo ↓ 4%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↑ 5%
321,122
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

4.0%
Income Tax
0%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.83%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

19.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $1,886/year higher in Lexington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Spokane — common questions

Is Lexington or Spokane cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Lexington and Spokane?
Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $40/month.
Which city has higher income, Lexington or Spokane?
Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $1,886/year higher in Lexington.
How do taxes compare between Kentucky and Washington?
Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Lexington or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Lexington details → View Spokane details →

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