Back

Cost of Living in
Kentucky

Living cost is 8.26% lower than avg
Families spend upto $8,221/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $7,848/mo on avg
Renters spend $4,320/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
Kentucky

Enter the city you're moving from

Moving From

Moving To

Your Pre-Tax Income

A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in Kentucky

U.S. Avg.

Kentucky

Difference Diff

Home Price

$532,491

$417,734.57

22%

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,367

$1,270.71

U.S. Avg.

Kentucky

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.4

$206.5

Total Energy (per month)

$200.23

$208.7

U.S. Avg.

Kentucky

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$6.79

$5.83

14%

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.41

$2.05

15%

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.85

$3.65

25%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.16

$7.8

27%

Detergent (per bottle)

$19.51

$21.34

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.85

$2.34

18%

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.83

$1.61

12%

Sugar (per bag)

$4.66

$4.96

Bread (per loaf)

$3.87

$3.92

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.44

12%

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.71

$1.53

11%

Steak (per lb)

$14.54

$18.34

26%

Sausage (per lb)

$5.23

$4.97

Ground Beef (per lb)

$8.61

$8.1

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.45

$3.1

10%

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.54

$4.19

24%

Coffee (per lb)

$6.55

$6.62

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$5.22

$5.14

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.40

$3.14

29%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.98

$1.78

10%

Bananas (per lb)

$0.64

$0.73

14%

Potatoes (per bag)

$5.58

$5.9

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.69

$4.83

Margarine (per lb)

$1.30

$1.41

Eggs (per dozen)

$3.98

$3.89

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.08

$4.94

21%

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.22

$1.33

U.S. Avg.

Kentucky

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$70.23

$59.53

15%

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.9

$3.41

17%

U.S. Avg.

Kentucky

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$116.03

$149.09

28%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$145.11

$113.97

21%

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$12.38

$11.36

Prescription Drug (per month)

$20.8

$21.83

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$95.27

$116.9

23%

U.S. Avg.

Kentucky

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$35.43

$40.28

14%

Boys’ Jeans

$29.47

$28.84

Men’s Shirt

$39.36

$38.71

Wine (per bottle)

$7.51

$14.42

92%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$11.17

$10.29

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.33

$69.72

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.59

$3.69

Yoga (per class)

$12

$20.16

68%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.67

$12.47

Newspaper (per copy)

$19.31

$11.89

38%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.47

$103.29

Women Slacks

$34.88

$39.38

13%

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$28.07

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$37.99

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.45

$18.5

38%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.55

$1.35

13%

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.64

$3.66

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$47.5

$49.25

Haircut (per cut)

$27.08

$24.46

10%

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.37

$4.61

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.99

$11.67

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.28

$5.78

Welcome to the Bluegrass State—where the cost of living is 8.26% lower than the national average. Kentucky's bourbon heritage, horse country charm, and southern hospitality make it one of America's most culturally rich yet affordable states. With major employers like UPS, Toyota, and the University of Kentucky driving economic growth, housing and services across the Commonwealth remain accessible.

Housing in Kentucky is 22% lower than the US average. The median home price in Kentucky is $417,734.57, compared to the national median of $437,900. If you're buying a new house in Kentucky, plan to put down 10% to 20% of the average home price in Kentucky. Fortunately, monthly mortgage payments here can be 30% to 40% less than the national average.
Renting in Kentucky is 7.0% lower than the national average, with the state’s average rent sitting at $1,270.71 per month. A one-bedroom apartment costs around $950, while a two-bedroom averages $1,150. Despite the lower costs, many rentals offer perks like front porches and basement storage, amenities that often carry a premium in other states.
Utilities are 1% higher the national average. The state’s mix of coal and renewable energy keeps electricity prices steady throughout the year. Summer cooling and winter heating bills remain manageable due to the state's moderate climate. Monthly utility bills average $320, including electricity, heating, water, and internet services.
Food prices in Kentucky are 2% higher than the US median. If you're a family of four, you'll typically spend $1,100 to $1,300 each month on groceries. Single adults can budget $300 to $425 monthly, thanks to Kentucky's agricultural production and competitive grocery chains.
Transportation costs are 7.5% lower than the US average. Gas prices average $3.41 per gallon, while monthly car insurance premiums average $175, which is 5% below the national average. Public transit options are limited outside Louisville and Lexington, making personal vehicles essential for most residents.
Healthcare costs in Kentucky are 7.5% lower than the national average. A routine check-up costs $125, and emergency room visits without insurance average $2,600. Kentucky's healthcare network comprises major medical centers, including UK HealthCare and Baptist Health, which provide comprehensive care at competitive rates.
Miscellaneous expenses are 0.57% higher than the national average. This covers everything from Kentucky Derby tickets to visits to Mammoth Cave National Park. A family day at the Kentucky Horse Park costs around $95, while dinner for two at a bourbon distillery restaurant can get up to $135.

Moving to Kentucky? Be ready to save more. Life’s easier on the wallet here—just enjoy the breathing room in your budget. 👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in Kentucky.

Find your
dream home in Kentucky

Browse Homes For Sale in Kentucky

Is Living in Kentucky Expensive?

No, Kentucky is not expensive to live in. It offers great value for most families on a reasonable budget. The overall cost of living in Kentucky is 8.26% lower than the national average, with housing costs a whopping 22% below the US median.

With $300,000, you can get a spacious home in Louisville with a large yard and front porch. In contrast, that same amount might buy a small condo in Nashville or a modest starter home in Charlotte. Lower food prices, transportation expenses, utility bills, and competitive healthcare costs add to the financial benefits of living in Kentucky.

Housing in Kentucky

If you're buying a home in Kentucky, you'll discover remarkable affordability compared to national markets. With mortgage rates ranging from 6.5% to 7.5% and property taxes averaging only 0.9% of home value, your monthly housing costs stay reasonable. Let's break it down:

Buying a House in Kentucky

For young adults or single people, one-bedroom homes in Louisville or Lexington are popular entry points into homeownership. These cities offer career opportunities, entertainment districts, and cultural amenities alongside affordability. Homes here average $230,000 to $320,000. At that price, your mortgage payments range from $1,500 to $2,100 monthly, excluding insurance and taxes. Condos in Louisville, Covington, and other metro areas are typically priced between $150,000 and $250,000.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $280,000 and $420,000 for a three-bedroom home in St. Matthews, Prospect, or Middletown. These family-friendly communities provide access to top-rated schools, such as Jefferson County Public Schools and Oldham County Schools. Both districts are praised for their academic programs, extracurriculars, and community involvement.
If you're a married couple with older children (ages 6 to 17), you can find homes for sale in Kentucky for $320,000 to $580,000. If you’re looking for homes with acreage, Bardstown and Elizabethtown are great options. Both come with proximity to renowned schools like Bardstown High School and Central Hardin High School.

Renting a House in Kentucky

Renting in Kentucky costs 7.0% lower than the national average. As one of the most affordable rental markets in the Southeast, housing prices vary by city size and proximity to employment centers. Let's break down average rental costs across the state:

If you're a young adult or single person, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Louisville or the Distillery District in Lexington costs $1,300 to $1,700 monthly. Downtown Louisville attracts residents with its NuLu entertainment district and bourbon tours, while Lexington's Distillery District has trendy restaurants, breweries, and proximity to the University of Kentucky. More affordable options exist in neighborhoods like Bowling Green or Owensboro, ranging from $900 to $1,200 monthly. These areas provide easy access to major employers like Western Kentucky University and Owens Corning.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $1,400 and $1,900 monthly for a two-bedroom home in Covington, Hopkinsville, or other family-friendly areas. Here, you’ll have access to parks, schools, childcare, and culture amenities.
For families with older children (ages 6 to 17), renting a three-bedroom home in Paducah or a four-bedroom home in Richmond costs between $1,500 and $2,200 monthly. Rentals near top schools tend toward the higher end of this range.
If you're downsizing, expect to spend $1,000 to $1,500 monthly renting one- or two-bedroom condos in Frankfort, Murray, or Morehead. These areas offer low-maintenance living, access to healthcare at Baptist Health and St. Claire Regional Medical Center, plus proximity to community rec centers.
International students should budget about $2,000 monthly for a three-bedroom apartment in Kentucky. Sharing apartments in university towns like Lexington or Bowling Green can reduce your rent costs by 25% to 35%.

Utilities in Kentucky

Food and Groceries in Kentucky

Transportation in Kentucky

Healthcare in Kentucky

Healthcare costs in Kentucky are 7.5% lower than the national average, an indicator of the state's balanced healthcare delivery and competitive medical markets. Rural areas may require travel to regional centers, but quality care remains accessible throughout the Commonwealth. Here's a breakdown of medical costs in Kentucky:

Doctor Visit — $149.09+ per visit: Routine care in Kentucky averages $149.09 per visit, matching the national average. Common reasons for doctor visits—like cold symptoms, blood pressure checks, or prescription refills—typically fall within this range. Specialized visits, such as dermatology or cardiology follow-ups, may cost $200 to $320, depending on the provider and location.
Dentist Visit — $113.97+ per visit: This covers routine cleanings and exams. A basic dental cleaning costs around $160, while cavity fillings cost $195 to $275. Compared to other southeastern states, like Tennessee ($140 for cleaning) or Virginia ($155 for cleaning), Kentucky runs slightly higher.
Optometrist Visit — $116.90+ per visit: Routine eye exams in Kentucky cost much less than the national average, and include vision checks and prescription updates. Specialized services (such as contact lens fittings or glaucoma treatment) can add $65 to $180 more to your total bill.
Prescription Drugs — $21.83+ per package: For chronic conditions like high blood pressure, a month's supply of Lisinopril costs $18 to $32 without insurance. Treatment for type 2 diabetes with Metformin costs $22 to $42 monthly. For short-term needs, common antibiotics like Amoxicillin cost $25 to $38.
Over-the-Counter Meds — $13+ per package: Everyday essentials like ibuprofen, allergy relief, and cold medications like DayQuil average $13 to $17 per package. Whether you're fighting off winter flu or dealing with spring allergies, a well-stocked medicine cabinet proves valuable.

Healthcare in Kentucky costs about the same as the national averages, and you get access to excellent facilities like UK HealthCare, Baptist Health, and Norton Healthcare. The state's moderate climate helps reduce seasonal illness expenses, while its competitive insurance markets and Medicaid expansion help curb overall healthcare costs.
It's a good idea to get health insurance, as the average cost of a doctor's visit in Kentucky is around $125*. The monthly premium of a health insurance plan in the state typically ranges between $385* and $675*.

*Disclaimer:These figures are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances and specific insurance providers. It's recommended to compare plans and consult with insurance professionals to find the best coverage for your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in Kentucky

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Kentucky?

The average salary in Kentucky is 8.26% lower. You only need $45,000 to $75,000 per year to maintain a comfortable lifestyle here, depending on your household size and spending habits.

Homeowners spend $94,178.00 per year: This includes mortgage or property tax payments, utilities, and upkeep costs typical across Kentucky’s towns and cities.

Renters spend $51,840.00 per year: This covers rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation. Most renters, especially those outside major metro areas, can live comfortably on this income.

Families with kids spend $98,652.00 per year: Childcare, larger housing, groceries, and activities require a solid income in Kentucky, yet costs remain lower than in many other states.

Is Kentucky Too Expensive? Find Homes in Kentucky as Per Your Budget

Kentucky Homes Under

$100,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$200,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$300,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$400,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$500,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$600,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$700,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$800,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$900,000

Kentucky Homes Under

$1M

Discover your place in Kentucky

View neighborhood insights, browse popular homes, and shortlist the ones you like on any device.

Download the Houzeo Mobile App Now!

What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a Kentucky cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine Kentucky's cost of living is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is gas in Kentucky?

The cost of gas in Kentucky averages $3.41 per gallon. Winter weather and busy times like the Kentucky Derby or bourbon festivals can cause price fluctuations. Weekend trips through horse country also often mean more stops at the pump.

Is Kentucky a good place to live?

Yes, along with affordable housing and a low cost of living, Kentucky is also home to renowned bourbon distilleries, horse farms, and quality universities like the University of Kentucky and University of Louisville. Cities such as Louisville and Lexington combine urban amenities with a slower pace, and lower expenses than many other metropolitan areas.

What is the cost of living in Kentucky?

The average cost of living in Kentucky is 8.26% lower than the national average. Louisville and Lexington are on the higher end, while Bowling Green, Owensboro, and smaller towns are among the most affordable places to live in Kentucky.

What is the average rent in Kentucky?

A one-bedroom apartment in Kentucky typically rents for $950 to $1,270.71 per month. Premium areas like downtown Louisville and Lexington's Distillery District charge higher rents for their amenities, like proximity to entertainment districts and cultural attractions.

How much is a two-bedroom apartment in Kentucky?

A two-bedroom apartment in Kentucky rents for $1,500 to $1,800 per month. Expect higher rents for luxury homes in Louisville, Lexington, and other metro areas with premium amenities and locations.

What is the average price of utilities in Kentucky?

Utilities cost per month in Kentucky range from $400 to $600 per month. This includes electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, and trash. Winter heating expenses can moderately increase your utility bills.

How much is childcare in Kentucky?

If you're moving to Kentucky, expect childcare costs to range between $900 to $1,350 per month for toddlers. Daycare centers in Louisville and Lexington tend to cost more than in smaller towns such as Bowling Green and Paducah, where family-based care is often more affordable.