Moving from Auckland to Durham (2026)

Durham has a COL index of 102 vs 90 for Auckland (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 13% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$763 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
90 โ†’ 102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700 โ†’ $1,750
per month
State tax
17.5% โ†’ 4.5%
income tax
COL difference
90 โ†’ 102
13% more expensive

Salary needed in Durham to match your Auckland lifestyle

Based on the 13% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in AucklandEquivalent in Durham
$40K$45,333
$50K$56,667
$60K$68,000
$75K$85,000
$80K$90,667
$100K$113,333
$120K$136,000
$150K$170,000

Adjust your salary

Pay ~$16/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Auckland vs Durham

ExpenseAucklandDurham
Monthly take-home$3,647$4,459
1BR rent$1,700$1,750
Groceries$380$372
Transport$150$82
Utilities$120$155
Internet$55$62
Left after essentials$1,242$2,038

Frequently asked questions

Is Durham cheaper than Auckland?

No. Durham has a cost of living index of 102 vs 90 for Auckland (100 = US average). That's about 13% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Auckland to Durham?

On a $75K salary, moving from Auckland to Durham saves roughly $763/month on core expenses. That's ~$9,156/year.

What salary do I need in Durham to match my Auckland lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Auckland, you'd need roughly $85,000/year in Durham. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only