Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
You'd spend $610/month more in Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
$150.0K in your current city equals $157.3K in Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Memphis, TN
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
Memphis, TN
The Volunteer State
Located in Tennessee, this city has a population of 633K residents.
💡 Advantage: Tennessee has no state income tax!
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
The Bluegrass State
Located in Kentucky, this city has a population of 320K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Memphis, TN vs Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
| Category | Memphis, TN | Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | $1,845/mo | $2,339/mo | ↑ $494more | 26.8% |
All Utilities | $530/mo | $464/mo | ↓ $65.57less | 12.4% |
Other | $1,674/mo | $1,641/mo | ↓ $33.48less | 2.0% |
Transportation | $1,243/mo | $1,216/mo | ↓ $27.32less | 2.2% |
Healthcare | $527/mo | $551/mo | ↑ $24.78more | 4.7% |
Groceries | $939/mo | $959/mo | ↑ $19.99more | 2.1% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $940–$1,730/mo
💡 Note: Rent prices are based on HUD Fair Market Rent data and represent median costs. Actual prices vary by neighborhood, amenities, and condition. Source: HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents FY2026.
Home Values
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Memphis, TN
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
Additional Tax Information
Memphis, TN Tax Rates
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY Tax Rates
💡 Note: Tax calculations are estimates based on 2024/2025 tax brackets for single filers with standard deduction. Actual taxes may vary based on filing status, deductions, credits, and local variations.
Environment
💰 See how taxes change too — compare take-home pay between Tennessee and Kentucky on TaxTakeHome.com
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