Is $50K a Good Salary in Durham, NC?
Full budget breakdown for Durham on $50K/year — take-home after taxes, rent burden, what you can afford, and how it compares to the city median.
Monthly budget in Durham on $50K
US average equivalent
$49,000
Your $50K in Durham (COL: 102) buys the same as $49,000/yr in a city with average US cost of living.
vs Durham median
-31%
The median household income in Durham is $72,000/yr. You're earning 31% below that.
Cities where $50K goes further
These cities have a lower rent burden at $50K than Durham.
Other salary levels in Durham
Frequently asked questions
Is $50K a good salary in Durham?
$50K/year in Durham gives you approximately $2,973/month in take-home pay after federal and state taxes. With a median 1BR rent of $1,750/month, your rent burden is 59% of take-home — which is considered difficult. Durham is on the expensive side for this salary, ranking #137 out of 179 cities.
How much is $50K after taxes in Durham?
On $50K/year in Durham (NC), you take home approximately $2,973/month after federal income tax, 4.5% NC state income tax, and FICA. That is roughly $35,676/year net.
What is the cost of living in Durham on $50K?
Monthly estimated costs in Durham: rent $1,750, groceries ~$372, transportation ~$82, utilities ~$155, internet ~$62. Total estimated expenses: ~$2,421/month, leaving ~$552/month after essentials on a $50K salary.
Tax estimates use 2026 brackets · Rent data: Zillow Observed Rent Index · Budget figures are estimates for general guidance only