Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Lexington is 12% more affordable than Madison. A $75,000 salary in Madison is equivalent to $65,802 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 · Wisconsin salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Madison sits at 115 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $340,000 in Madison, a difference of $95,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $1,400 in Madison.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while Madison scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than Madison (105). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $67,565 in Madison. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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