Can I Afford to Live in Lima vs Wilmington on $60K?
Here's how a $60K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.
Monthly budget breakdown
| Expense | Lima PE | Wilmington NC |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $3,793 | $3,568 |
| 1BR rent | $500 | $1,550 |
| Groceries (est.) | $380 | $372 |
| Transport (est.) | $150 | $45 |
| Utilities | $55 | $158 |
| Internet | $25 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,683/month | $1,381/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $60K a good salary in Lima?
At $60K/year in Lima, your estimated monthly take-home is $3,793. With 1BR rent around $500/month, rent takes up 13% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.
Is $60K a good salary in Wilmington?
At $60K/year in Wilmington, your estimated monthly take-home is $3,568. With 1BR rent around $1,550/month, rent takes up 43% of your take-home. That's considered tight.
Which city is more affordable on a $60K salary?
Lima leaves you with more money after core expenses — $2,683/month vs $1,381/month in Wilmington.
Can I afford to live alone in Lima on $60K?
Yes. At $60K in Lima, rent takes 13% of your take-home, leaving $2,683/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.
See the full cost-of-living comparison
Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.
Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only