Mount Sterling, KY vs. Versailles, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Picture this: You’re comparing apartments in Mount Sterling and Versailles, Kentucky. A 2-bedroom in Mount Sterling rents for around $800 per month, while a similar place in Versailles goes for $1,100. Filling your fridge costs about $300 monthly in Mount Sterling compared to $350 in Versailles. Which city makes more sense for your budget in 2025? This cost of living comparison will help you decide whether Mount Sterling or Versailles is the right fit.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rents and home prices compare:
| Housing Type | Mount Sterling | Versailles |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $800 | $1,100 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $180,000 | $250,000 |
🏆 Winner: Mount Sterling. You’ll pay around 27% less in rent and 28% less to buy a home compared to Versailles.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect monthly utility bills around $180 in Mount Sterling vs. $200 in Versailles for a typical apartment. Costs rise about 20% in the summer with A/C use. Both cities offer off-peak electricity plans that can help you save.
🏆 Winner: Mount Sterling. While not a huge difference, Mount Sterling utilities run about 10% cheaper.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Feeding a family of four in Mount Sterling costs around $800 per month, while in Versailles it’s closer to $900. Dining out is also more affordable in Mount Sterling, with entrees at local restaurants averaging $12 vs. $15 in Versailles.
🏆 Winner: Mount Sterling. Your grocery and restaurant bills will be about 10-20% lower.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes in Mount Sterling are 0.85% vs. 0.92% in Versailles. HOA fees are uncommon in both cities. Versailles has slightly higher city service fees for utilities and waste collection.
🏆 Winner: Mount Sterling. Lower property taxes give it the edge, though the difference is small.
Cost Summary
| Category | Mount Sterling | Versailles |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $800 | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $800 | $900 |
| Transportation | $350 | $350 |
| Taxes (Property) | 0.85% | 0.92% |
| Misc | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,530 | $3,000 |
Lifestyle Fit
Mount Sterling offers a bit more space and a slower pace compared to Versailles. Commutes average 5 minutes shorter in Mount Sterling. Versailles has better walkability and a few more local amenities. The climate is nearly identical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mount Sterling more affordable than Versailles?
Yes, the cost of living is around 15% lower in Mount Sterling. Housing and food costs are the biggest factors.
Which city has lower rent?
Mount Sterling rents are about 27% cheaper for a comparable apartment. Expect to pay around $800 for a 2BR in Mount Sterling vs. $1,100 in Versailles.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Mount Sterling home prices are roughly 28% lower than Versailles. The median price for a 3BR house is $180,000 in Mount Sterling compared to $250,000 in Versailles.
The Bottom Line
For most lifestyles, Mount Sterling offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Versailles. A household moving from Versailles to Mount Sterling might save $400 per month on housing alone. However, Versailles may still appeal to those who value its extra amenities and walkability.
Considering other Kentucky cities? See how much it costs to live in Mount Sterling each month. Planning a move? Check out our 2025 picks for the best moving companies.