Moving from Houston to Lexington (2026)

Lexington has a COL index of 89 vs 95 for Houston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 6% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$250/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
95 โ†’ 89
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,350 โ†’ $1,350
per month
State tax
None โ†’ 4%
income tax
COL difference
95 โ†’ 89
6% cheaper

Salary needed in Lexington to match your Houston lifestyle

Based on the 6% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in HoustonEquivalent in Lexington
$40K$37,474
$50K$46,842
$60K$56,211
$75K$70,263
$80K$74,947
$100K$93,684
$120K$112,421
$150K$140,526

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Save ~$44/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Houston vs Lexington

ExpenseHoustonLexington
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,491
1BR rent$1,350$1,350
Groceries$357$365
Transport$90$60
Utilities$175$158
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,704$2,498

Frequently asked questions

Is Lexington cheaper than Houston?

Yes. Lexington has a cost of living index of 89 vs 95 for Houston (100 = US average). That's about 6% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Houston to Lexington?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Lexington run about $250/month more than Houston. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Lexington to match my Houston lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Houston, you'd need roughly $70,263/year in Lexington. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only