Richmond, KY vs. Versailles, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to Richmond or Versailles, Kentucky? Here’s a rapid-fire comparison of key living costs in 2025:
- 🏠 Median rent: $950 in Richmond vs $1,100 in Versailles
- ⚡ Average utility bill: $180/month in Richmond vs $210 in Versailles
- 🥑 Groceries for family of 4: $800/month in Richmond vs $850 in Versailles
- 🏫 Property taxes: 0.85% in Richmond vs 0.92% in Versailles
This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Richmond and Versailles. It’s perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life expenses of these two Kentucky cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Richmond and Versailles stack up for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Richmond | Versailles |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $900 | $1,050 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $1,300 | $1,450 |
🏆 Winner: Richmond. Renting a 2-bedroom apartment costs around $150 less per month compared to Versailles, while a typical mortgage payment is about $150 lower for a 3-bedroom home.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills can add up quickly. In Richmond, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2-bedroom apartment. Costs rise about 10% in winter due to heating.
In Versailles, a similar apartment will cost closer to $210 monthly for basic utilities. The city’s electricity rates are about 5% higher than Richmond’s.
🏆 Winner: Richmond. A household could save around $30 per month on utility bills by choosing Richmond over Versailles.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, a typical monthly grocery bill will run about $800 in Richmond compared to $850 in Versailles. Eating out is also a bit pricier – a meal for two at a mid-range Versailles restaurant averages $60, versus $55 in Richmond.
🏆 Winner: Richmond takes the lead again, offering savings of $50/month on food for a family. Over a year, that adds up to $600 extra for a Richmond household’s budget.
4. Taxes and Fees
Richmond’s property tax rate is 0.85%, while Versailles charges 0.92%. For a $250,000 home, that’s a difference of $175 per year.
Both cities charge similar fees for services like trash and recycling. However, Richmond residents can take advantage of lower-cost community center passes and youth sports programs.
🏆 Winner: Richmond. Lower property taxes and city fees make it more affordable overall.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Richmond | Versailles |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $1,300 | $1,450 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $800 | $850 |
| Transportation | $350 | $380 |
| Taxes (0.85% vs 0.92%) | $175 | $190 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,205 | $3,530 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Richmond offers lower living costs overall, Versailles has some appealing lifestyle perks. It’s a bit more walkable, with a quaint downtown area. Commute times are about 5 minutes shorter on average.
However, Richmond boasts more spacious yards and a quieter suburban feel. It’s also a few degrees cooler in the summer months.
Quick facts:
🌡️ Richmond averages 3°F cooler than Versailles in July.
🚗 Versailles workers have a 5-minute shorter commute on average.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Richmond more affordable than Versailles?
A: Yes, Richmond offers a lower overall cost of living, with savings on housing, utilities, groceries, and taxes.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Renting a 2-bedroom apartment in Richmond costs about $150 less per month than in Versailles.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Richmond has lower home prices and property tax rates, making it more affordable for buyers. See our guide to [Monthly Budget Examples for Richmond Residents](/richmond-ky/monthly-budget/) for more info.
8. Conclusion
While both Richmond and Versailles offer a high quality of life, Richmond comes out ahead on affordability. Families and professionals looking to stretch their budget will find lower housing, food, and utility costs in Richmond.
However, those who prioritize walkability or a slightly shorter commute may prefer Versailles despite the higher price tag. Young professionals may feel more at home in its vibrant downtown.
Considering other Kentucky cities? Check out our [Cost of Living in Richmond (2025 Guide)](/richmond-ky/cost-overview/) or search for more location comparisons.