Middletown, KY vs. Nicholasville, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Middletown vs Nicholasville. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Middletown vs Nicholasville in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the largest expense when comparing the cost of living between two cities. Here’s how Middletown and Nicholasville stack up:
| Housing Type | Middletown | Nicholasville |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,250 | $1,400 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $325,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Middletown
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can vary based on home size, energy efficiency, and climate. In Middletown, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Nicholasville utility bills average slightly higher at $200 monthly.
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Middletown offers an off-peak energy plan that can help reduce summer AC costs.
🏆 Winner: Middletown
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries in Middletown typically cost about 5% less than in Nicholasville. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Middletown compared to $3.75 in Nicholasville. Restaurant prices are comparable, with a mid-range dinner for two around $50 in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Middletown
4. Taxes and Fees
Middletown has a slightly lower property tax rate of 0.85% vs. Nicholasville’s 0.95%. City service fees are similar. In Middletown, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $100-300 monthly. Nicholasville HOAs are less common but can cost $50-150 when present.
🏆 Winner: Middletown
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Middletown | Nicholasville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,250 | $1,400 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $425 |
| Transportation | $60 | $50 |
| Taxes & Fees | $200 | $225 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,340 | $2,550 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Middletown is more affordable overall, Nicholasville offers benefits like larger homes and lots, a quieter suburban feel, and slightly better walkability. Nicholasville has more public transportation options, while most Middletown residents rely on cars.
7. FAQ
- Is Middletown more affordable than Nicholasville?
Yes, the cost of living in Middletown is about 8% lower than in Nicholasville, based on 2025 estimates.
- Which city has lower rent?
Middletown has lower average rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,250 vs. $1,400 in Nicholasville.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Median home prices in Middletown are about $25,000 less than comparable homes in Nicholasville.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Middletown offers a lower cost of living for most households. It’s ideal for those prioritizing affordability, especially young professionals and budget-conscious families. However, Nicholasville can be a great fit if you value space, quiet, and don’t mind a car-centric lifestyle.
Interested in seeing how your budget might look in Middletown? Check out these Monthly Budget Examples for Middletown Residents. Or get an in-depth look with our Cost of Living in Middletown (2025 Guide).
Remember, all income figures in this article are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax). Your actual take-home pay will be lower after accounting for taxes and deductions.