Cost of living in Lexington
Lexington, Kentucky, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a unique living experience. Understanding the cost of living in this city is crucial for both current residents and those considering a move.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses, including housing, transportation, groceries, and more, to help you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $15 on average, with a range between $12 and $30.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $75, with prices ranging from $50 to $180.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $10, with a range between $9 and $10.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $4 to $7, imported beer $4 to $8, cappuccino $3 to $8, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $3.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.66 and $0.98 per liter, averaging $0.8.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.97 and $3.42, with an average price of $2.91.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.59 to $5, averaging $2.46.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.2 to $5.51 per kg, while oranges range from $2.2 to $9.35 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.65 and $3.28 per kg, and lettuce costs $1 to $3.99 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $1 and $2.5, with a monthly pass priced between $30 and $35.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.72 and $0.99 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $5, with a cost of $0.81 to $1.55 per km and $30 to $36 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1100 to $1800, averaging $1400.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $600 to $900, averaging $790.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1650 to $2800, averaging $2137.5.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $1800 to $2200, averaging $1950.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $1981.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter averages $1981.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $102 and $548.96, averaging $204.07.
- Internet - Internet services range from $50 to $100, with an average cost of $67.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Lexington offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas. Housing costs are moderate, especially outside the city centre.
Dining out can vary significantly in price, with options ranging from inexpensive meals to more costly dining experiences.
Transportation is economical, with affordable public transport and fuel prices. Utilities and internet costs are also reasonable, contributing to overall affordability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lexington, KY, presents a balanced cost of living with affordable housing, reasonable transportation costs, and varied dining options.
Whether you're planning to move or are already a resident, understanding these expenses can help you manage your budget effectively and enjoy what the city has to offer.