Moving from Atlanta to Wilmington (2026)
Wilmington has a COL index of 93 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). You'd pay about 15% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Wilmington to match your Atlanta lifestyle
Based on the 15% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Atlanta | Equivalent in Wilmington |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,818 |
| $50K | $42,273 |
| $60K | $50,727 |
| $75K | $63,409 |
| $80K | $67,636 |
| $100K | $84,545 |
| $120K | $101,455 |
| $150K | $126,818 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Atlanta vs Wilmington
| Expense | Atlanta | Wilmington |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,397 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,550 |
| Groceries | $376 | $372 |
| Transport | $95 | $45 |
| Utilities | $165 | $158 |
| Internet | $60 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $1,801 | $2,272 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Wilmington cheaper than Atlanta?
Yes. Wilmington has a cost of living index of 93 vs 110 for Atlanta (100 = US average). That's about 15% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Atlanta to Wilmington?
On a $75K salary, moving from Atlanta to Wilmington could save roughly $409/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,908/year.
What salary do I need in Wilmington to match my Atlanta lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Atlanta, you'd need roughly $63,409/year in Wilmington. 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