Moving from Albany to Winston-Salem (2026)
Winston-Salem has a COL index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). You'd pay about 5% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Winston-Salem to match your Albany lifestyle
Based on the 5% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Albany | Equivalent in Winston-Salem |
|---|---|
| $40K | $37,826 |
| $50K | $47,283 |
| $60K | $56,739 |
| $75K | $70,924 |
| $80K | $75,652 |
| $100K | $94,565 |
| $120K | $113,478 |
| $150K | $141,848 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Albany vs Winston-Salem
| Expense | Albany | Winston-Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,309 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,400 | $1,300 |
| Groceries | $380 | $361 |
| Transport | $68 | $45 |
| Utilities | $185 | $150 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,211 | $2,543 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Winston-Salem cheaper than Albany?
Yes. Winston-Salem has a cost of living index of 87 vs 92 for Albany (100 = US average). That's about 5% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Albany to Winston-Salem?
On a $75K salary, moving from Albany to Winston-Salem could save roughly $182/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,184/year.
What salary do I need in Winston-Salem to match my Albany lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Albany, you'd need roughly $70,924/year in Winston-Salem. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only