California
High tax burden · COL index 142
Wins 4 categories
Kentucky
Moderate tax burden · COL index 85
Wins 8 categories
California's top income tax rate is 13.3% vs Kentucky's 4%. Cost of living in California (index 142) runs 67% higher than Kentucky (index 85). The median home in California costs $790K vs $215K in Kentucky. Politically, Kentucky voted Republican in 2024 (R+26.0) while California went Democratic (D+20.0).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
4
California
8
Kentucky
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Is Kentucky cheaper than California?
Compared to bustling California, Kentucky has a low cost of living, meaning a gallon of milk and the gas for your car will cost considerably less. California is known for its exorbitant prices because many people love to live there. But Kentucky can offer much of the same adventures and comfort at a lower price.
Is moving to Kentucky a good idea?
What salary do you need to live comfortably in KY?
A single adult in Kentucky needs to make $83,574 per year to live comfortably, SmartAsset reports, while a family of four would need an income of $192,941. Kentucky ranked 46th for the highest income needed for an individual, and 49th for the income needed for a family.
What is the nicest part of Kentucky to live in?