Can I Afford to Live in Lubbock 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 | Lubbock TX | Wilmington NC |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home (est.) | $3,793 | $3,568 |
| 1BR rent | $1,000 | $1,550 |
| Groceries (est.) | $346 | $372 |
| Transport (est.) | $38 | $45 |
| Utilities | $172 | $158 |
| Internet | $58 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,179/month | $1,381/month |
Frequently asked questions
Is $60K a good salary in Lubbock?
At $60K/year in Lubbock, your estimated monthly take-home is $3,793. With 1BR rent around $1,000/month, rent takes up 26% of your take-home. That's considered 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?
Lubbock leaves you with more money after core expenses — $2,179/month vs $1,381/month in Wilmington.
Can I afford to live alone in Lubbock on $60K?
Yes. At $60K in Lubbock, rent takes 26% of your take-home, leaving $2,179/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