Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Lexington is 40% more affordable than Long Beach. A $75,000 salary in Long Beach is equivalent to $45,000 in Lexington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Kentucky salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Long Beach sits at 236 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $700,000 in Long Beach, a difference of $455,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $2,200 in Long Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while Long Beach scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than Long Beach (103). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $60,567 in Long Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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