Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
3% cheaper
Louisville is 3% more affordable than Rochester. A $75,000 salary in Rochester is equivalent to $72,606 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 · New York salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Louisville has a housing index of 77 while Rochester sits at 73 (national average = 100). The median home in Louisville costs $210,000 compared to $155,000 in Rochester, a difference of $55,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Louisville versus $1,000 in Rochester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Louisville scores 96 while Rochester scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Louisville (93) are lower than Rochester (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Louisville is $52,238 compared to $39,728 in Rochester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Louisville.
Amazon affiliate links