Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
22% cheaper
Louisville is 22% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $58,333 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 · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Louisville has a housing index of 77 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Louisville costs $210,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $190,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Louisville versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Louisville scores 96 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Louisville (93) are lower than Tacoma (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Louisville is $52,238 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Louisville.
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