Lexington vs Shreveport for Families (2026)
Scroll down for childcare estimates, home price-to-income ratios, and FAQ.
Full family cost breakdown
| Metric | Lexington Kentucky | Shreveport Louisiana |
|---|---|---|
| Studio rent / month | $1,100 | $800Better |
| 2BR rent / month | $1,750 | $1,300Better |
| Median home price | $270K | $190KBetter |
| Median household income | $56KBetter | $43K |
| Est. childcare / month | $1,157 | $1,053Better |
| State income tax | 4%Better | 4.3% |
| Sales tax (combined) | 6%Better | 9.5% |
| Monthly utilities | $158Better | $205 |
| Groceries index (US = 100) | 96 | 93Better |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Lexington or Shreveport?
Lexington and Shreveport are closely matched for families overall. Housing costs, income levels, and taxes are comparable. Your specific priorities — school quality, commute, outdoor space — should drive the decision.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Lexington vs Shreveport?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $1,750/month in Lexington and $1,300/month in Shreveport. Shreveport is 26% cheaper for a family-sized apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Lexington or Shreveport?
The price-to-income ratio in Lexington is 4.8× ($270K median home, $56K median income). In Shreveport it's 4.4× ($190K home, $43K income). A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable — Shreveport is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Lexington vs Shreveport?
Estimated infant/toddler childcare runs approximately $1,157/month in Lexington and $1,053/month in Shreveport, based on national averages scaled by each city's cost-of-living index. Annual childcare cost difference: ~$1,248/year.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Lexington has a 4% state income tax rate vs Shreveport's 4.3% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, that difference is roughly $30/month in take-home pay.
$100K in Lexington has the same purchasing power as $91K in Shreveport
Childcare estimates based on national avg scaled by COL index · Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026