Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Lexington is 13% more affordable than Atlanta. A $75,000 salary in Atlanta is equivalent to $65,187 in Lexington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Georgia salaries · Kentucky salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Atlanta has a housing index of 113 while Lexington sits at 82 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $245,000 in Lexington, a difference of $105,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $1,200 in Lexington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Atlanta scores 104 while Lexington scores 96. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) are higher than Lexington (94). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $55,648 in Lexington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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