Let’s Set the Stage
Picture this: You’re a young professional looking to settle down in a charming suburb like St Matthews, KY. You’ve landed a decent job and are ready to embrace the local lifestyle—but how much will it really cost to live comfortably here in 2025?
Living comfortably means different things to different people, but in St Matthews, it typically involves a balance of affordable housing, convenient amenities, and enough wiggle room in your budget for the occasional splurge. Of course, the exact cost varies depending on your neighborhood and lifestyle expectations.
To give you a clearer picture of how much it costs to live comfortably in St Matthews in 2025, we’ll break down the essential expenses, income benchmarks, and regional norms. Whether you’re a single adult, a couple, or a family of four, this guide will help you estimate the monthly income you’ll need to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in this delightful Kentucky suburb.
Essential Monthly Costs
First, let’s look at the necessary expenses you’ll face living in St Matthews. These include:
- Housing: Rent or mortgage payments
- Utilities: Electricity, gas, water, internet
- Transportation: Car payments, gas, insurance, or public transit
- Groceries: Food and household essentials
- Healthcare: Insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs
To give you an idea, here’s a sample monthly budget for a single person in St Matthews:
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Housing (1BR apartment) | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $150 |
| Transportation | $300 |
| Groceries | $350 |
| Healthcare | $250 |
| Total | $2,150 |
🏆 Quick Stat: Average rent for a 1BR apartment in St Matthews: $1,100/month.
Comfortable Lifestyles by Household Type
Of course, your monthly expenses will vary depending on your household size and lifestyle preferences. Here’s a breakdown of what you might need to live comfortably in St Matthews:
| Household Type | Monthly Income Needed |
|---|---|
| Single adult | $3,500 – $4,500 |
| Couple without children | $5,000 – $6,500 |
| Family of four | $7,500 – $10,000 |
Keep in mind that these ranges account for some discretionary spending and savings. In St Matthews, a couple without kids might be able to live comfortably on $5,000/month, but families often need more space and face higher childcare costs, pushing their monthly needs closer to $8,000 or more.
Hidden or Overlooked Costs
When budgeting for life in St Matthews, don’t forget about these often-overlooked expenses:
- HOA fees: If you buy a home in a community with a homeowners’ association, you may need to pay monthly dues. In some neighborhoods of St Matthews, homeowners can pay up to $300/month for HOA fees, while renters might only face minimal service charges.
- Childcare: For families with young children, daycare or preschool tuition can easily add $1,000+/month to the budget.
- Commute costs: If you work outside of St Matthews, factor in the cost of gas, tolls, or public transit passes.
- Seasonal utilities: In the summer months, expect your electricity bill to climb as you run the A/C to beat the Kentucky heat.
Ways to Stretch Your Budget in St Matthews
Looking for ways to make your money go further in St Matthews? Consider these tips:
- Take advantage of local programs: St Matthews residents can often find discounts on utilities, recreation, and more through city-sponsored initiatives.
- Shop strategically: Save on groceries by shopping at discount stores, using couponing apps, or stocking up during sales.
- Go green: Installing solar panels or energy-efficient appliances can help lower your utility bills in the long run.
Many St Matthews residents save on utilities by using off-peak rates for electricity in the summer months. Check with your provider to see if this option is available to you.
Which Lifestyle Fits You Best?
Ultimately, the amount you need to live comfortably in St Matthews depends on your unique circumstances and priorities. Consider these lifestyle benchmarks:
If you value space and privacy, a $4,500/month lifestyle may be more realistic for a single person.
Young professionals may find it easier to manage a more compact budget, while families will need more flexibility for childcare, transportation, and healthcare costs. Use our Average Monthly Expenses in St Matthews, KY guide to map out your personalized budget.
FAQs About Comfort & Cost
What is a comfortable salary in St Matthews?
For a single person, a salary of $42,000 to $54,000 per year (or $3,500 to $4,500 per month) should provide a comfortable lifestyle in St Matthews. Couples and families will need higher incomes to maintain the same level of comfort.
Can you live well on $3,000/month in St Matthews?
While $3,000/month is enough to cover the essentials in St Matthews, it may be a bit tight for a single person looking to live comfortably. Aiming for a monthly income of $3,500 or more will give you more breathing room.
What costs surprise new residents in St Matthews?
New residents in St Matthews are often caught off guard by the cost of utilities, especially in the summer when air conditioning is a must. Additionally, those moving from more urban areas may be surprised by the need for a car and the associated costs of gas and insurance.
Final Thoughts
So, how much do you need to live comfortably in St Matthews in 2025? While the exact answer depends on your specific situation, we can make some general conclusions:
- For a single person, aim for a monthly income of $3,500 to $4,500.
- Couples will need around $5,000 to $6,500 per month to live comfortably.
- Families of four should budget for at least $7,500 to $10,000 per month.
Of course, these are just guidelines. For a more detailed look at the cost of living in St Matthews, check out our Cost of Living in St Matthews, KY: Full 2025 Breakdown. And if you’re considering a move to the area, don’t forget to compare moving company costs and options to find the best fit for your budget.