Shively, KY vs. Nicholasville, KY: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Shively vs Nicholasville. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Shively vs Nicholasville in 2025.
At a glance, here’s how Shively and Nicholasville stack up:
- Median home price: Shively $175K, Nicholasville $225K
- Average 2BR rent: Shively $950, Nicholasville $1,100
- Utility bills: Shively $180/mo, Nicholasville $210/mo
- Groceries for family of 4: Shively $800/mo, Nicholasville $850/mo
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Shively and Nicholasville compare for typical options:
| Housing Type | Shively | Nicholasville |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $175,000 | $225,000 |
| Mortgage (30yr fixed) | $950/mo | $1,200/mo |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $950/mo | $1,100/mo |
| 3BR House Rent | $1,300/mo | $1,500/mo |
🏆 Winner: Shively
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can add up. In Shively, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Nicholasville runs higher at about $210/month. Winter heating bills tend to be higher in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Shively
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries for a family of four in Shively average around $800/month. The same groceries in Nicholasville cost about $850/month. Eating out is also slightly pricier in Nicholasville, by around 5-10%.
🏆 Winner: Shively
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are 0.85% in Shively and 0.95% in Nicholasville. In Shively, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $100-300/month. Nicholasville HOAs are pricier at $150-400/month.
🏆 Winner: Shively
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Shively | Nicholasville |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage) | $950 | $1,200 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $800 | $850 |
| Transportation | $300 | $350 |
| Taxes (Property) | $125 | $180 |
| Misc | $400 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,755 | $3,240 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Shively offers more affordable housing and a lower cost of living overall. It’s great for budget-conscious families. Nicholasville has more public transportation options and walkable neighborhoods, ideal for car-free living.
Shively is about 5°F warmer on average than Nicholasville. Summers are hot and humid in both cities.
7. FAQ Section
Is Shively more affordable than Nicholasville?
Yes, Shively has a lower cost of living than Nicholasville in most major categories like housing, utilities, and groceries.
Which city has lower rent?
Shively offers lower rent prices. A typical 2BR apartment rents for $950/month in Shively compared to $1,100/month in Nicholasville.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Shively has a lower median home price of $175,000 vs $225,000 in Nicholasville. Mortgage payments are about $250/month less in Shively.
8. Conclusion
Overall, Shively is the more affordable place to live, with lower costs for housing, utilities, groceries, and taxes. A household moving from Nicholasville to Shively might save $400/month on housing alone. Shively is ideal for budget-conscious families and those prioritizing housing costs.
However, Nicholasville can be a great fit for car-free households who value walkability and don’t mind paying a bit more. As always, your specific lifestyle and priorities determine which city is the right financial fit for you.
For more insights, read our guides on [Monthly Budget Examples for Shively Residents](/shively-ky/monthly-budget/) and the full [Cost of Living in Shively (2025 Guide)](/shively-ky/cost-overview/).