Phoenix, AZ vs Lexington, KY: 109 vs 82

$1,458/mo ↑ 32%

Median Rent

$1,101/mo ↓ 24%

$77,041/yr ↑ 14%

Median Income

$67,631/yr ↓ 12%

$381,900 ↑ 40%

Home Value

$272,100 ↓ 29%

$1,430/mo ↑ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,160/mo ↓ 19%

1,624,832

Population

321,122

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Lexington, KY, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $357/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $4,284/year.

Median household income is $9,410/year higher in Phoenix. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $272,100 in Lexington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Lexington — common questions

Is Phoenix or Lexington cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Lexington?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Lexington it's $1,101/month — a difference of $357/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Lexington?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $67,631 in Lexington. Median household income is $9,410/year higher in Phoenix.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Kentucky?

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

Should I move to Phoenix or Lexington?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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: Phoenix, AZ vs Lexington, KY (2026)

Phoenix

Lexington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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