Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Lexington is 7% more affordable than Charlotte. A $75,000 salary in Charlotte is equivalent to $69,750 in Lexington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · Kentucky salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charlotte has a housing index of 99 while Lexington sits at 82 (national average = 100). The median home in Charlotte costs $330,000 compared to $245,000 in Lexington, a difference of $85,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Charlotte versus $1,200 in Lexington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charlotte scores 101 while Lexington scores 96. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charlotte (105) are higher than Lexington (94). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Charlotte is $62,308 compared to $55,648 in Lexington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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