Can I Afford to Live in Lexington vs Mexico City on $75K?

Here's how a $75K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Lexington, KY
$4,491/mo take-home
Rent: $1,350/mo (30% of take-home)
Manageable
Mexico City, MX
$4,741/mo take-home
Rent: $700/mo (15% of take-home)
Very comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Lexington
KY
Mexico City
MX
Monthly take-home (est.)
$4,491
$4,741Best ✓
1BR rent
$1,350
$700Best ✓
Groceries (est.)
$365Best ✓
$380
Transport (est.)
$60Best ✓
$150
Utilities
$158
$55Best ✓
Internet
$60
$25Best ✓
Left after essentials
$2,498/month
$3,431/month
Mexico City (CDMX) has no state income tax, boosting take-home vs Lexington (KY rate: 4%).

Frequently asked questions

Is $75K a good salary in Lexington?

At $75K/year in Lexington, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,491. With 1BR rent around $1,350/month, rent takes up 30% of your take-home. That's considered manageable.

Is $75K a good salary in Mexico City?

At $75K/year in Mexico City, your estimated monthly take-home is $4,741. With 1BR rent around $700/month, rent takes up 15% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $75K salary?

Mexico City leaves you with more money after core expenses — $3,431/month vs $2,498/month in Lexington.

Can I afford to live alone in Lexington on $75K?

Yes. At $75K in Lexington, rent takes 30% of your take-home, leaving $2,498/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Lexington vs Mexico City

$40K$50K$60K$80K$100K$120K$150K

See the full cost-of-living comparison

Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.

Full comparison

Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only