Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
40% cheaper
Louisville is 40% more affordable than Seattle. A $75,000 salary in Seattle is equivalent to $44,901 in Louisville.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Kentucky salaries · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Louisville has a housing index of 77 while Seattle sits at 224 (national average = 100). The median home in Louisville costs $210,000 compared to $750,000 in Seattle, a difference of $540,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Louisville versus $2,300 in Seattle.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Louisville scores 96 while Seattle scores 109.
Healthcare costs in Louisville (93) are lower than Seattle (109).
Median household income in Louisville is $52,238 compared to $97,185 in Seattle. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Louisville.
Amazon affiliate links