Lexington, KY vs Tacoma, WA: 82 vs 126

$1,101/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,597/mo ↑ 45%

$67,631/yr ↓ 19%

Median Income

$83,857/yr ↑ 24%

$272,100 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$454,600 ↑ 67%

$1,160/mo ↓ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,747/mo ↑ 51%

321,122

Population

220,482

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Tacoma, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $496/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $5,952/year.

Median household income is $16,226/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $454,600 in Tacoma.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Tacoma — common questions

Is Lexington or Tacoma 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 Tacoma?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Tacoma it's $1,597/month — a difference of $496/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Tacoma?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $83,857 in Tacoma. Median household income is $16,226/year higher in Tacoma.

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 Tacoma?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/mo, while Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,597/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Lexington

Tacoma

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons