Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Louisville is 12% more affordable than Richmond. A $75,000 salary in Richmond is equivalent to $66,262 in Louisville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Kentucky salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Louisville has a housing index of 77 while Richmond sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in Louisville costs $210,000 compared to $300,000 in Richmond, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Louisville versus $1,400 in Richmond.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Louisville scores 96 while Richmond scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Louisville (93) are lower than Richmond (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Louisville is $52,238 compared to $50,120 in Richmond. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Louisville.
Amazon affiliate links