A+
11%
Overall NAT. AVG.
0%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
31%
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 Lexington Nebraska National
Cost of living8991100
Groceries10097100
Health care9898100
Housing6976100
Transportation9799100
Utilities9496100
Lifestyle & Entertainment10097100
Household Items9898100
Education & Childcare9596100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Lexington, NE

The cost of living in Lexington affects the quality of life one can afford in this new location. It allows people to assess whether they can maintain their preferred lifestyle, including housing, leisure activities and dining options. Your total monthly expenditures can varry depending on the area, as well as many other factors. The cost of living in Lexington is 89, which is 11% lower than the national average. Knowledge of the cost of living can help individuals make informed decisions about retirement savings, investments, and financial goals.

Is Lexington Affordable?

Is Lexington 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 Lexington, the median home price is 38.4% lower than the national average and monthly rent prices are 12.5% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Lexington boasting a median household income of $84,460, 3.8% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Lexington?

Housing: High demand for housing in desirable locations can drive up property prices and rental rates. This can be a primary contributor to a higher cost of living. While low demand for housing, especially in undesirable locations, can have the reverse effect and drive prices down, resulting in a lower cost of living. The housing index in Lexington, is 30.7% 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 Lexington, the utilities index stands at 6.5% 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 Lexington, the baseline sales tax rate begins at 5.5%, and income tax rates start at 2.46%.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living data for Lexington 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 Lexington is 2% lower than the Nebraska average
  • The cost of living in Lexington is 11% lower than the national average
  • Lexington housing is 31% lower than the national average
  • Nebraska general sales tax is 8% higher than the national average
  • Nebraska state income tax is 5% lower than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Lexington

See all the best places to live around Lexington

Compare Lexington, NE 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$97,195$8,100$2,268$2,916
      Renters$62,643$5,220$1,462$1,879
      A good way to judge both the affordability of the housing and the cost of living in Lexington is by simply calculating the maximum that should be spent on housing, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). The plan is to avoid spending more than 28 percent of the gross income on costs that pertain to housing and no more than 36 percent on all expenses and debts. Lexington has a median income of about $97,195 for people who own homes. Based on that number, a maximum of $2,268 should be spent on expenses related to housing. Renters have a slightly different median income, which is $62,643. Based on this average, renters should spend no more than $1,462 on all rental costs if they want to maintain a non-impoverished standard of living.

      Nebraska Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      Nebraska 5.5% 7.5%

      Nebraska Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      Nebraska 2.46% 6.64%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Overton, NE7248217.7%
      Smithfield, NE958317.2%
      Sumner, NE3138416.2%
      Cozad, NE3,8898515.0%
      Elwood, NE6928614.0%
      Lexington, NE10,3848910.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Kennett, MO10,3868218.2%
      St. Albans, WV10,3868911.1%
      Brandon, SD10,3881044.1%
      Chalco, NE10,372964.3%
      Fountain Inn, SC10,371954.6%
      Lexington, NE10,3848910.8%
      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.