San Diego, CA vs Lexington, KY: 197 vs 82

$2,223/mo ↑ 102%

Median Rent

$1,101/mo ↓ 50%

$104,321/yr ↑ 54%

Median Income

$67,631/yr ↓ 35%

$848,500 ↑ 212%

Home Value

$272,100 ↓ 68%

$2,308/mo ↑ 99%

Owner Costs

$1,160/mo ↓ 50%

1,385,061

Population

321,122

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Lexington, KY, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,122/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $13,464/year.

Median household income is $36,690/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $272,100 in Lexington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Lexington — common questions

Is San Diego or Lexington cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Lexington?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Lexington it's $1,101/month — a difference of $1,122/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Lexington?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $67,631 in Lexington. Median household income is $36,690/year higher in San Diego.

How do taxes compare between California and Kentucky?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax.

Should I move to San Diego or Lexington?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Lexington, KY (2026)

San Diego

Lexington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons