Florence, KY vs. Hamilton, OH: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Which city gives you more for your money – Florence, KY or Hamilton, OH? This article provides a cost of living comparison between Florence and Hamilton. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in Florence vs Hamilton in 2025.

A suburban street in Florence, Kentucky with brick homes, recycling bins by the curb, and a jogger running past. — Morning in a Florence, KY neighborhood with tidy homes.

1. Housing Costs

Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Florence and Hamilton compare for common housing options:

Housing Type	Florence, KY	Hamilton, OH
2BR Apartment Rent	$1,100	$950
3BR Home Mortgage	$1,450	$1,250

🏆 Winner: Hamilton. Housing costs are around 15-20% lower in Hamilton compared to Florence.

2. Utilities and Energy Costs

Utility bills can add up quickly. In Florence, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Costs are slightly lower in Hamilton, averaging $160 per month.

🏆 Winner: Hamilton, but the difference is minor.

3. Groceries and Daily Expenses

Groceries and everyday items cost about the same in Florence and Hamilton. Budget around $350-400 per month for a single person’s groceries in either city. Restaurant prices are comparable as well.

🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are very similar.

A cul-de-sac in Hamilton, Ohio at dusk with porch lights turning on and a child's bike near the curb. — Dusk settles on a cozy street in Hamilton, OH.

4. Taxes and Fees

Property taxes are 0.93% in Florence compared to 1.24% in Hamilton. However, Kentucky has a 6% state income tax while Ohio’s tops out at 4.797%. City service fees are moderately higher in Florence.

🏆 Winner: Hamilton. Lower property and income taxes give Hamilton the overall edge.

5. Cost Summary Table

Category	Florence, KY	Hamilton, OH
Housing	$1,450	$1,250
Utilities	$180	$160
Groceries	$400	$400
Transportation	$60	$75
Taxes & Fees	$450	$380
Misc	$250	$250
Estimated Monthly Total	$2,790	$2,515

6. Lifestyle Fit

Florence offers more space for the money, with larger homes and yards. Hamilton has better walkability and public transit. Hamilton averages 5°F colder in winter than Florence. Noise and air quality are similar.

7. FAQ

Is Florence more affordable than Hamilton? No, Hamilton has a lower overall cost of living.
Which city has lower rent? Rent is around 15% cheaper in Hamilton.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices and mortgages are lower in Hamilton.

8. Conclusion

For most lifestyles and budgets, Hamilton offers a lower cost of living than Florence. Housing is the biggest difference, with costs around 15-20% less in Hamilton. However, Florence can be a great fit if you value more space and don’t mind a slightly longer commute.

Curious about other costs? See our guide on how much it costs to live in Florence each month. Or check out this overview of the cost of living in Florence for 2025.

If you’re considering a move, see our 2025 picks for the best moving companies.