Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Lexington is 13% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $65,187 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 · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Lexington has a housing index of 82 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $15,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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