Lexington, KY vs Surprise, AZ: 82 vs 126

$1,101/mo ↓ 43%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 74%

$67,631/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 38%

$272,100 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 46%

$1,160/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 37%

321,122

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $816/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $9,792/year.

Median household income is $25,740/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Surprise — common questions

Is Lexington or Surprise cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Surprise?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $816/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Surprise?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $25,740/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and Arizona?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Lexington, KY vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Lexington

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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