Living in Versailles or Nicholasville? Cost Breakdown

Versailles, KY vs. Nicholasville, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

A couple enters their regular coffee shop in Versailles, KY and is greeted warmly by the barista.
Starting the day at a favorite neighborhood spot is an affordable pleasure in Versailles.

This article provides a cost of living comparison: Versailles vs Nicholasville. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Versailles vs Nicholasville in 2025.

  • 🏠 Median rent in Versailles: $950 vs $1,100 in Nicholasville
  • ⚑ Average utility bill: $180 in Versailles vs $210 in Nicholasville
  • πŸ›’ Typical grocery costs: 8% lower in Versailles
  • πŸ’Έ Property taxes: 0.85% in Versailles vs 0.92% in Nicholasville

1. Housing Costs

Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Versailles and Nicholasville. Renting a typical 2-bedroom apartment in Versailles costs around $950 per month, while a similar unit in Nicholasville averages $1,100. Buying a home? Expect to pay a median price of $225,000 in Versailles compared to $265,000 in Nicholasville.

HousingVersaillesNicholasville
2BR Apartment Rent$950$1,100
3BR Home Price$225,000$265,000

πŸ† Winner: Versailles

2. Utilities and Energy Costs

Utility costs also tend to be lower in Versailles. The average monthly utility bill for a 1,000 sq ft apartment is around $180, which includes electricity, water, and trash. In Nicholasville, the same bill would likely be closer to $210. Both cities have similar climates, so heating and cooling needs don’t vary much.

πŸ† Winner: Versailles

3. Groceries and Daily Expenses

When it comes to groceries and everyday items, Versailles residents enjoy prices that are about 8% lower than in Nicholasville. A gallon of milk costs around $3.50 in Versailles compared to $3.80 in Nicholasville, for example. Dining out is also a bit cheaper – a meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in Versailles averages $50, while Nicholasville eateries charge closer to $60.

πŸ† Winner: Versailles

4. Taxes and Fees

Property taxes are another area where Versailles has the edge. The average effective property tax rate in Versailles is 0.85%, while Nicholasville homeowners pay 0.92%. So for a $250,000 home, annual taxes would be roughly $2,125 in Versailles vs. $2,300 in Nicholasville. Both cities have similar HOA fees, which typically range from $100-300 per month.

πŸ† Winner: Versailles

5. Cost Summary Table

CategoryVersaillesNicholasville
Housing$950$1,100
Utilities$180$210
Groceries$350$380
Transportation$60$65
Taxes$180$195
Misc$200$220
Estimated Monthly Total$1,920$2,170
A woman carries groceries into her new apartment in Nicholasville, KY, glancing around at the upgraded space.
Higher housing costs are a tradeoff for desirable amenities and location in Nicholasville.

6. Lifestyle Fit

Versailles offers a bit more space and a slower pace of life compared to Nicholasville. Many neighborhoods are walkable, with nearby parks and local businesses. Nicholasville has more dining and entertainment options, but also more traffic and noise. Commute times are about 20% longer in Nicholasville.

7. FAQ

  • Is Versailles more affordable than Nicholasville? Yes, the cost of living in Versailles is about 10-15% lower overall.
  • Which city has lower rent? Versailles has lower rental prices, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $950 vs $1,100 in Nicholasville.
  • Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Median home prices in Versailles are about $40,000 lower than in Nicholasville.

8. Conclusion

While both Versailles and Nicholasville offer a high quality of life, Versailles comes out ahead in terms of affordability. Housing, food, and daily expenses are all lower, while still providing a friendly small-town feel. Nicholasville may be a better fit for those wanting more amenities and don’t mind paying a bit extra.

To dive deeper into budgeting as a Versailles resident, check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Versailles Residents. Or for an even more detailed look at expenses, see our full Cost of Living in Versailles (2025 Guide).