A+
4%
Overall NAT. AVG.
0%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
7%
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 Lawrence Indiana National
Cost of living9689100
Groceries10097100
Health care9697100
Housing9372100
Transportation10096100
Utilities9396100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9895100
Household Items9998100
Education & Childcare9994100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Lawrence, IN

Knowing the cost of living in Lawrence allows individuals to create a realistic budget. This helps them understand how their income will cover expenses and whether they need to make financial adjustments. The cost of living in any region can fluctuate due to various factors. To assess the cost of living consistently across different areas, a national average of 100 serves as the basis for the cost of living index. The cost of living in Lawrence stands at 96, marking it 4% lower than the national average.

In Lawrence, daily expenses such as food, housing, lifestyle expenses, transportation and health care are in line with comparable areas and about average when compared to all cities across the nation. This ensures that the cost of living in Lawrence will resemble that of an average city, contributing to a manageable cost of living.

Is Lawrence Affordable?

Is Lawrence an affordable place to live? It's a good question and one that you might want to ask when considering any new city, as affordability can play a huge role in the decision making process. The cost of living index (which we covered above), as well as housing costs and income levels play a vital role in determining the affordability of an area. The median home price in Lawrence is 9.7% lower than the national average, while the average monthly rent prices are 0.8% lower than average. The affordability of any location can also be influenced by median income levels. Lawrence has a median household income of $92,874, which is 14.2% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Lawrence?

Utilities: Similar to the prices of any other goods or services, utility expenditures can exhibit substantial variability, influenced by factors such as climate, energy sources accessibility, geographical location and state regulations. Costs related to electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can fluctuate, whether higher or lower, contingent on the city or state. In Lawrence, the utilities index is 7.2% lower than the national average.

Urbanization: Larger, urban hubs brimming with ample amenities and robust employment opportunities often showcase a heightened cost of living. This surge is primarily attributed to the amplified demand for services and increased residential migration, culminating in elevated home prices and elevated rental rates. Conversely, less densely populated rural locales or regions characterized by reduced demand tend to offer a more limited array of amenities and undergo slower job market growth, ultimately yielding a more affordable cost of living.

Transportation: When public transportation options are limited or non-existent, residents frequently resort to vehicle ownership, which can significantly contribute to the overall cost of living. Monthly financial obligations encompass fuel, insurance, regular maintenance and potentially lease or financing expenses. In Lawrence, the transportation index is 0.5% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Lawrence shown above is based on a U.S. average baseline score of 100, making it easier to compare how far your dollar may go from one city to another. Housing uses U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all remaining values are AI-assisted estimates informed by regional pricing, climate, transportation dynamics, and local economic factors. These scores are best used for directional comparisons between cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Lawrence is 8% higher than the Indiana average
  • The cost of living in Lawrence is 4% lower than the national average
  • Lawrence housing is 7% lower than the national average
  • Indiana general sales tax is 37% higher than the national average
  • Indiana state income tax is 21% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Lawrence

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Compare Lawrence, IN 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$128,674$10,723$3,002$3,861
      Renters$51,786$4,316$1,208$1,554
      The percent of monthly income spent on housing can be a good indicator of the affordability of housing in Lawrence, IN, as well as the overall cost of living. As a general rule of thumb, the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) for homeowners or renters should be not more than 28 percent of gross income to be spent on housing related costs and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses, including debts. The median income for Lawrence homeowners, is $128,674. This would allow for a maximum of $3,002 per month to be spent on housing costs. For renters, the median monthly income is $51,786 which would result in a maximum of $1,208 to be spent on rental costs.

      Indiana Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Indiana 7% 7%

      Indiana Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Indiana 3.15% 3.15%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Beech Grove, IN15,6798811.7%
      Spring Lake, IN2598910.8%
      Ingalls, IN2,5448911.0%
      Speedway, IN12,709928.1%
      Warren Park, IN1,526937.2%
      Lawrence, IN50,012963.5%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Lincoln, CA50,00615353.1%
      Draper, UT50,02114545.3%
      Tuckahoe, VA49,97412322.8%
      Newark, CA49,97119595.1%
      Middletown, OH50,0758812.2%
      Lawrence, IN50,012963.5%
      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.