Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Lexington is 12% more affordable than Minneapolis. A $75,000 salary in Minneapolis 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 · Minnesota salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Minneapolis sits at 112 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $310,000 in Minneapolis, a difference of $65,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $1,500 in Minneapolis.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while Minneapolis scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than Minneapolis (105). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $64,285 in Minneapolis. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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