Shively, KY vs. Georgetown, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Shively vs Georgetown. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Shively vs Georgetown in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Here’s how typical housing costs compare between Shively and Georgetown:
| Housing Type | Shively | Georgetown |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $950 | $1,150 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $180,000 | $240,000 |
🏆 Winner: Shively
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
In Shively, expect to pay around $180 per month for typical utilities like electricity, gas, water, and trash. Costs may rise about 15% in the summer due to air conditioning.
Georgetown utility bills average $200 monthly. The city’s climate means less seasonal variation in energy usage compared to Shively.
🏆 Winner: Shively
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices run about 5% lower in Shively than Georgetown. A gallon of milk averages $3.50 in Shively compared to $3.70 in Georgetown. Restaurant prices are similar between the two cities.
🏆 Winner: Shively
4. Taxes and Fees
Shively’s property tax rate of 0.85% edges out Georgetown’s 0.95% rate. In Shively, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $150-300 per month. Georgetown HOAs tend to cost $200-400 monthly.
🏆 Winner: Shively
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Shively | Georgetown |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $950 | $1,150 |
| Utilities | $180 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $420 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Taxes | 0.85% | 0.95% |
| Misc | $250 | $300 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $1,840 in Shively | $2,150 in Georgetown |
Note: All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
Shively offers more affordable housing and slightly lower cost of living overall. It’s an attractive option for budget-conscious families. However, Georgetown provides easier access to Lexington and more public transportation options.
Shively averages 2°F warmer than Georgetown in the summer months. Both cities see similar winter lows around 30°F.
7. FAQ
- Is Shively more affordable than Georgetown? Yes, the cost of living is around 15% lower in Shively compared to Georgetown.
- Which city has lower rent? Shively has lower typical rent, with a median 2BR apartment renting for $950 vs $1,150 in Georgetown.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Median home prices are about $60,000 lower in Shively than Georgetown for a comparable 3BR house.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Shively offers a lower cost of living that may appeal to those on tighter budgets, such as young families, retirees, or single professionals. With median pre-tax income around $4,000, a household moving from Georgetown to Shively might save $400/month on housing alone.
However, Georgetown’s pricier housing comes with benefits like an easier commute to Lexington and more transit access. Ultimately, the choice depends on your finances, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Considering other Kentucky cities? Check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Shively Residents and Cost of Living in Shively (2025 Guide) for more insights.