Florence, KY vs. Cincinnati, OH: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Meet the Johnsons, a family of four debating a move from Cincinnati, OH to Florence, KY in 2025. They’re comparing the cost of living to see which city fits their lifestyle and budget. Let’s dive into the key factors and crown a winner for affordability.
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Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest expense when relocating. Here’s how typical costs compare for the Johnsons:
| Housing Type | Florence | Cincinnati |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,100 | $1,400 |
| 3BR Home Price | $275,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Florence. The Johnsons could save $300 per month on rent or $75,000 on a home purchase in Florence compared to Cincinnati.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills also add up. In similar mid-size cities, costs typically range:
- Electricity: $100-150/month
- Gas: $50-100/month
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $75-125/month
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable between the two cities. The Johnsons can expect to pay around $250-350/month total.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, groceries in Florence average about $850/month compared to $950 in Cincinnati. Eating out is also 10-15% cheaper in Florence.
🏆 Winner: Florence. The Johnsons could shave $100+ off their monthly grocery bill in Florence.
Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are 0.96% in Florence vs. 1.56% in Cincinnati. For a $300K home, that’s a difference of $1,800 per year. City service fees are similar, but Florence has lower HOA fees on average.
🏆 Winner: Florence. Lower property taxes give Florence the edge for the budget-conscious Johnsons.
Cost Summary
| Category | Florence | Cincinnati |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,100 | $1,400 |
| Utilities | $300 | $300 |
| Groceries | $850 | $950 |
| Transportation | $500 | $550 |
| Taxes | $220 | $455 |
| Misc | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,370 | $4,105 |
Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor though. Cincinnati offers more public transit and urban amenities, while Florence provides extra space and a quieter suburban feel. Cincinnati averages 5°F colder in January than Florence.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Florence more affordable than Cincinnati? Yes, the cost of living is about 18% lower in Florence on average.
- Which city has lower rent? Florence has lower rent, with 2BR apartments around $300/month cheaper than Cincinnati.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices are roughly 20% lower in Florence. A household moving from Cincinnati to Florence might save $400/month on housing alone.
The Verdict for the Johnsons
After crunching the numbers, Florence comes out ahead for affordability. The Johnsons could save over $700 per month on core expenses by choosing Florence. However, Cincinnati may still be worth the premium for families who value walkability and don’t mind less space.
Every budget is unique though. To calculate your own cost of living, check out:
- How Much It Costs to Live in Florence Each Month
- Cost of Living in Florence: Your Monthly Budget Guide for 2025
And if the Johnsons take the plunge, this guide can help them pick between pods or trucks for the most efficient move.