Jeffersontown, KY vs. Lexington, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Jeffersontown residents spend $400 less per month on housing compared to Lexington. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Jeffersontown and Lexington. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Jeffersontown vs Lexington in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Jeffersontown and Lexington. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare:
| Housing Type | Jeffersontown | Lexington |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,100 | $1,450 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $280,000 | $340,000 |
🏆 Winner: Jeffersontown
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. In Jeffersontown, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Lexington utility bills average $200 monthly.
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Heating and cooling needs are comparable.
🏆 Winner: Jeffersontown
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are about 5% lower in Jeffersontown compared to Lexington. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Jeffersontown vs $3.70 in Lexington. Eating out is also slightly cheaper – a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Jeffersontown costs around $45 for two, while the same meal in Lexington runs $50.
🏆 Winner: Jeffersontown
4. Taxes and Fees
Jeffersontown has a lower property tax rate of 0.75% compared to Lexington’s 0.85%. However, Lexington offers a homestead exemption for seniors and disabled residents.
In Jeffersontown, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, adding $100-300 to monthly housing costs for many residents.
🏆 Winner: Lexington
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Jeffersontown | Lexington |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,400 | $1,800 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $350 | $380 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Taxes | $250 | $300 |
| Misc | $200 | $240 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,440 | $3,000 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Jeffersontown offers more affordable housing and a small-town suburban feel. Most errands require a car. Lexington provides an urban lifestyle with walkable neighborhoods and public transit, but less space for the money. Lexington’s climate is a few degrees cooler than Jeffersontown.
7. FAQ
- Is Jeffersontown more affordable than Lexington?
Yes, the cost of living in Jeffersontown is about 20% lower than Lexington overall.
- Which city has lower rent?
Jeffersontown rent averages $350 less per month than Lexington.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Home prices in Jeffersontown are around $60,000 lower than Lexington.
8. Conclusion
Jeffersontown is the clear winner for affordability, with lower costs for housing, utilities, and daily expenses. A household moving from Lexington to Jeffersontown might save $400/month on housing alone. However, Lexington may appeal more to those who value an urban lifestyle and don’t mind less space.
Budgets are personal, so consider your own needs and preferences. Check out our other cost of living comparisons for more Kentucky cities to find your ideal fit!