Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
24% cheaper
Lexington is 24% more affordable than Scottsdale. A $75,000 salary in Scottsdale is equivalent to $56,707 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 · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Scottsdale sits at 162 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $580,000 in Scottsdale, a difference of $335,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $2,000 in Scottsdale.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while Scottsdale scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than Scottsdale (95). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $92,298 in Scottsdale. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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