Nicholasville is relatively affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,300 per month and lower-than-average grocery and vehicle costs compared to nearby Lexington.
Housing Costs in Nicholasville
Housing is the biggest expense for most Nicholasville residents. The median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $1,250 per month. Renting a typical 3-bedroom house costs about $1,600 monthly.
For those looking to buy, the median home price in Nicholasville is $325,000 as of 2025. With a 10% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 4.5% interest, that translates to a monthly payment of roughly:
- $1,480 for principal and interest
- $270 for property taxes
- $80 for homeowners insurance
Some neighborhoods have optional HOA fees ranging from $25-150 per month for amenities and maintenance.
Utilities and Energy Bills
Nicholasville residents pay an average of $170 per month for electricity, with costs spiking up to $250 in the hot summer months due to air conditioning. Natural gas for heating averages $80 monthly but can climb to $150 in the coldest part of winter.
Water, sewer, and trash collection are often bundled into one bill that typically runs $60-80 per month for a family. High-speed internet costs around $70 monthly.
| Utility | Avg. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $170 |
| Natural gas | $80 |
| Water/sewer/trash | $70 |
| Internet | $70 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries for a single person in Nicholasville cost around $300 per month, while a family of four spends closer to $900. This assumes mostly cooking at home. Dining out adds an extra $200-600 to the monthly food budget, depending on frequency and restaurant choices.
Household essentials like toiletries, cleaning supplies, and paper goods add another $150 monthly for a typical family. A no-frills weekly grocery run for a couple might look something like:
- Produce – $25
- Meat and eggs – $20
- Dairy – $10
- Pantry staples – $15
- Household items – $10
Taxes and Fees
Nicholasville’s property tax rate is 0.9% of assessed value. For a $325,000 home, that’s $2,925 per year or $244 per month.
Kentucky’s statewide sales tax is 6%, which applies to most goods and some services. There are also annual vehicle property taxes:
| Vehicle Value | Approx. Annual Tax |
|---|---|
| $10,000 | $175 |
| $20,000 | $350 |
| $30,000 | $525 |
Monthly Budget Summary
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent) | $1,250 | $1,600 | $1,600 |
| Utilities | $290 | $340 | $390 |
| Groceries | $300 | $500 | $900 |
| Transportation | $300 | $400 | $600 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | $800 |
| Personal & misc. | $400 | $600 | $800 |
| Monthly Total | $2,790 | $3,940 | $5,090 |
| Gross Income Needed | $4,400 | $6,200 | $8,000 |
Note: Gross monthly income is total earnings before taxes and deductions.
Lifestyle Considerations
Living in Nicholasville offers a blend of affordability and convenience. Residents enjoy a reasonable 25-minute average commute to jobs in the Lexington metro area. Most neighborhoods feature a mix of newer construction and established homes on tree-lined streets.
While Nicholasville may lack the extensive amenities of Lexington proper, it still provides ample parks, highly-rated schools, and a historic downtown district. Housing costs are significantly lower than Lexington, making it an attractive option for families and professionals seeking more space for their budget.
However, Nicholasville living often requires owning a car, as public transit is limited. And while there are grocery stores and restaurants in town, the selection pales in comparison to what’s available a short drive away in Lexington.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salary do you need to live in Nicholasville, KY?
A gross (pre-tax) income of at least $4,400 per month allows a single person to live comfortably in Nicholasville as of 2025, while a couple needs around $6,200 monthly.
Is Nicholasville cheaper than Lexington?
Yes, the cost of living in Nicholasville is about 10% lower than Lexington, primarily due to more affordable housing. Goods, services, and utilities are similarly priced.
What bills do you pay living in Nicholasville?
The main monthly bills are rent/mortgage, electricity, gas, water/sewer/trash, internet, and renter’s/homeowner’s insurance. Some neighborhoods have HOA fees.
How much is the average electric bill in Nicholasville?
Electricity costs $170 per month on average but can spike to $250 or more during the hottest months of summer due to air conditioning.
What is the property tax rate in Nicholasville, KY?
The property tax rate in Nicholasville is 0.9% of the assessed home value annually. For a $325,000 house, that equals $2,925 per year or $244 per month.
Is Nicholasville a good place to live?
Nicholasville offers an appealing suburban lifestyle and relatively affordable housing within an easy commute of Lexington. It’s a solid choice for families and professionals seeking a balance of cost and convenience.
What is the sales tax in Nicholasville?
The sales tax in Nicholasville is 6%, which is the same statewide rate that applies to most of Kentucky.