Versailles, KY vs. Winchester, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Versailles vs Winchester. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Versailles vs Winchester in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Versailles and Winchester compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Versailles | Winchester |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $950 | $1,100 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $275,000 | $315,000 |
🏆 Winner: Versailles
Versailles comes out ahead on housing costs, with lower rent and home prices compared to Winchester. A household moving from Winchester to Versailles might save $150/month on a 2BR apartment or $40,000 on a 3BR home purchase.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are another important factor. In Versailles and Winchester, expect the following monthly utility bills for a typical household:
- Electricity: $120-150
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-80
- Natural Gas: $40-60 (higher in winter)
- Internet: $60-80
🏆 Winner: Tie
Utility costs are very similar between the two cities. Both have hot summers and cool winters, so seasonal usage patterns are comparable.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, costs are fairly even between Versailles and Winchester:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.00
- Fast food meal: $8-10
🏆 Winner: Tie
With no major price differences on common purchases, Versailles and Winchester are neck-and-neck for daily living costs. Buying groceries or going out to eat will cost about the same in either city.
Taxes and Fees
Taxes and city fees can add up:
- Versailles property tax rate: 0.88%
- Winchester property tax rate: 1.02%
- Versailles HOA fees: $150-300/month (often includes landscaping and trash)
- Winchester HOA fees: $100-250/month
🏆 Winner: Versailles
Versailles has a lower property tax rate and slightly higher HOA fees, but the difference is minimal. Relocating from Winchester to Versailles won’t drastically change your tax bill.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Versailles | Winchester |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $950 | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $280 | $280 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Taxes/Fees | $225 | $200 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,405 | $2,480 |
Lifestyle Fit
While the cost of living is similar, each city has its own vibe:
- Versailles has a quaint, small-town feel with more space and lower density
- Winchester is a bit larger and more walkable, with shorter commutes
Versailles averages 5°F cooler than Winchester in the summer. So if you prefer milder weather, Versailles may be the better pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Versailles more affordable than Winchester? Yes, the cost of living in Versailles is about 3% lower than Winchester overall.
- Which city has lower rent? Versailles has lower rental prices, with the median 2BR apartment renting for $950 vs $1,100 in Winchester.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Homes cost less in Versailles. The median price of a 3BR is $275,000 in Versailles compared to $315,000 in Winchester.
Conclusion
Versailles offers a lower cost of living than Winchester, primarily due to more affordable housing. It’s a great fit for those seeking a peaceful, small-town lifestyle. However, Winchester can be a smart choice for those prioritizing walkability and shorter commutes.
Be sure to dive into Monthly Budget Examples for Versailles Residents and our full Cost of Living in Versailles (2025 Guide) for more details. With the right planning, you can make a confident decision between these two charming Kentucky cities.