Winchester, KY vs. Versailles, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Winchester vs Versailles. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Winchester vs Versailles in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is one of the biggest factors in the cost of living difference between Winchester and Versailles. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare:
| Housing Type | Winchester | Versailles |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $850 | $1,100 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $180,000 | $220,000 |
🏆 Winner: Winchester
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are fairly similar between the two cities, with Winchester residents paying around $180 per month on average vs $200 in Versailles. Both have seasonal swings, with higher AC costs in summer. Versailles has more public transportation options to help offset gas prices.
🏆 Winner: Winchester
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable in Winchester and Versailles, with a gallon of milk averaging $3.50 and a loaf of bread around $2.80 in both cities. Eating out is also similar, though Winchester has a few more affordable casual dining options. For other goods and services like clothing, entertainment, and personal care, costs are nearly equal.
🏆 Winner: Tie
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are 20% lower in Winchester, averaging 0.8% vs 1.0% in Versailles. City service fees like water and trash are comparable. In Winchester, HOA fees often include landscaping and exterior maintenance. Versailles has slightly higher vehicle registration fees.
🏆 Winner: Winchester
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Winchester | Versailles |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $850 | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $350 | $300 |
| Taxes | $250 | $300 |
| Misc | $220 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,250 | $2,550 |
These figures reflect estimated pre-tax monthly costs. A household moving from Versailles to Winchester might save $300 per month on basic living expenses.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Winchester offers more affordable housing and a small-town feel, with many neighborhoods featuring spacious yards. Versailles provides a balance of suburban calm and urban access, located just outside Lexington. Versailles averages 5°F cooler than Winchester in July. Both are relatively walkable for Kentucky cities.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Winchester more affordable than Versailles?
- Yes, the cost of living is about 10% lower in Winchester, mainly due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent?
- Winchester has lower rent prices, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $850/month vs $1100 in Versailles.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
- Winchester has lower home prices and property taxes. The median price of a 3BR house is $180K in Winchester compared to $220K in Versailles.
8. Conclusion
While both Winchester and Versailles provide a high quality of life, Winchester comes out ahead on affordability. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking more space on a budget. Versailles’ location makes it ideal for commuters who want suburban living with easy city access. Explore our monthly budget examples for Winchester residents or full cost of living guide for Winchester to learn more about expenses in the area.