A+
4%
Overall NAT. AVG.
5%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
1%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Burlington Kentucky National
Cost of living9688100
Groceries9598100
Health care9797100
Housing9970100
Transportation9496100
Utilities9795100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9795100
Household Items9797100
Education & Childcare9094100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Burlington, KY

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Burlington is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Burlington is 96, which is 4% lower than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

The cost of living in Burlington aligns closely with the national average when compared to other cities across the nation. Everyday essentials such as groceries, household expenses, health care and utility bills are priced at a level consistent with the average in similar urban areas. Burlington residents can anticipate that their daily expenses won't be significantly higher than those in an average city, ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable.

Is Burlington Affordable?

Is Burlington affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Burlington, the median home price is 5.2% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 9.8% higher than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Burlington boasting a median household income of $131,572, 61.8% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Burlington?

Healthcare: Healthcare costs and insurance premiums can undergo substantial fluctuations based on the city or state of residence. Elements such as the availability of healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket costs for medical consultations, dental expenses, prescription medication charges and specialized medical care fees all contribute to variations in the cost of living. In Burlington, healthcare costs are 3.2% lower than the national average.

Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In Burlington, the utilities index stands at 3.2% lower than the national average.

Taxes: Cities that enforce higher taxes, covering both sales taxes and income taxes, can be a factor contributing to a higher cost of living. Paying more in taxes for everyday essentials like clothing and food inevitably leads to higher expenses. A higher income tax rate can further contribute to an overall elevated cost of living. In Burlington, the baseline sales tax rate begins at 6%, and income tax rates start at 4.5%.

Where is the Data From?

The Burlington cost of living data displayed above uses a U.S. average baseline of 100 to provide a practical way to compare living expenses across cities. Housing estimates incorporate U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are generated using AI-assisted models based on everyday expense expectations, regional pricing trends, climate, transportation patterns, and local economic conditions. These values are designed for directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Burlington is 9% higher than the Kentucky average
  • The cost of living in Burlington is 4% lower than the national average
  • Burlington housing is 1% lower than the national average
  • Kentucky general sales tax is 18% higher than the national average
  • Kentucky state income tax is 73% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Burlington

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Compare Burlington, KY Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$140,595$11,716$3,280$4,218
      Renters$74,204$6,184$1,731$2,226
      The percentage of monthly income spent on housing related expenses can help predict the affordability of housing in Burlington, KY, as well as what the overall cost of living might be. Generally, a good rule to follow is that the debt-to-income (DTI) level you want to maintain is 28 percent or less of your income on your rent or mortgage payments and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses and debts. In Burlington, homeowners have a median income of $140,595. Using that number, a maximum of $3,280 per month should be allocated to housing expenses. For those who are renting instead of owning, the median income is $74,204, which means there is a maximum of $1,731 to be spent on the costs of renting a home or apartment.

      Kentucky Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Kentucky 6% 6%

      Kentucky Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Kentucky 4.5% 4.5%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Petersburg, KY375954.8%
      Shawnee, OH1,081954.8%
      Elizabethtown, OH2957524.9%
      Hooven, OH3367722.7%
      Shawnee village, OH5637821.8%
      Burlington, KY18,755963.6%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      North Aurora, IL18,75411313.0%
      Midland, ON18,769n/a 
      Manchester, MO18,7711065.6%
      Harrison, NJ18,73213534.6%
      Sudley, VA18,73012322.7%
      Burlington, KY18,755963.6%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.