Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
You'd spend $337/month more in Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
$150.0K in your current city equals $154.0K in Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Winston-Salem, NC
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
Winston-Salem, NC
The Tar Heel State
Located in North Carolina, this city has a population of 250K residents.
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: Winston-Salem, NC vs Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
| Category | Winston-Salem, NC | Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | $2,131/mo | $2,339/mo | ↑ $208more | 9.8% |
Other | $1,574/mo | $1,641/mo | ↑ $66.96more | 4.3% |
All Utilities | $519/mo | $464/mo | ↓ $54.64less | 10.5% |
Healthcare | $601/mo | $551/mo | ↓ $49.57less | 8.2% |
Transportation | $1,202/mo | $1,216/mo | ↑ $13.66more | 1.1% |
Groceries | $959/mo | $959/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $960–$1,260/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
Winston-Salem, NC
Lexington-Fayette urban county, KY
Additional Tax Information
Winston-Salem, NC 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 North Carolina and Kentucky on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
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