Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Lexington is 7% more affordable than St. Paul. A $75,000 salary in St. Paul is equivalent to $69,750 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 St. Paul sits at 98 (national average = 100). The median home in Lexington costs $245,000 compared to $260,000 in St. Paul, a difference of $15,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,200 in Lexington versus $1,300 in St. Paul.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Lexington scores 96 while St. Paul scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Lexington (94) are lower than St. Paul (105). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Lexington is $55,648 compared to $57,718 in St. Paul. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Lexington.
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