Moving from Nashville to Lexington (2026)
Lexington has a COL index of 89 vs 112 for Nashville (100 = US average). You'd pay about 21% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Lexington to match your Nashville lifestyle
Based on the 21% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Nashville | Equivalent in Lexington |
|---|---|
| $40K | $31,786 |
| $50K | $39,732 |
| $60K | $47,679 |
| $75K | $59,598 |
| $80K | $63,571 |
| $100K | $79,464 |
| $120K | $95,357 |
| $150K | $119,196 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Nashville vs Lexington
| Expense | Nashville | Lexington |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,491 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,350 |
| Groceries | $365 | $365 |
| Transport | $70 | $60 |
| Utilities | $170 | $158 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,276 | $2,498 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Lexington cheaper than Nashville?
Yes. Lexington has a cost of living index of 89 vs 112 for Nashville (100 = US average). That's about 21% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Nashville to Lexington?
On a $75K salary, moving from Nashville to Lexington could save roughly $472/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,664/year.
What salary do I need in Lexington to match my Nashville lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Nashville, you'd need roughly $59,598/year in Lexington. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only