Moving from Augusta to Winston-Salem (2026)

Winston-Salem has a COL index of 87 vs 85 for Augusta (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 2% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$101 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8587
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200$1,300
per month
State tax
5.5%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,397$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Winston-Salem to match your Augusta lifestyle

Based on the 2% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in AugustaEquivalent in Winston-Salem
$40K$40,941
$50K$51,176
$60K$61,412
$75K$76,765
$80K$81,882
$100K$102,353
$120K$122,824
$150K$153,529

Monthly budget at $75K — Augusta vs Winston-Salem

ExpenseAugustaWinston-Salem
Monthly take-home$4,397$4,459
1BR rent$1,200$1,300
Groceries$353$361
Transport$42$45
Utilities$162$150
Internet$58$60
Left after essentials$2,582$2,543

Frequently asked questions

Is Winston-Salem cheaper than Augusta?

No. Winston-Salem has a cost of living index of 87 vs 85 for Augusta (100 = US average). That's about 2% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Augusta to Winston-Salem?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Winston-Salem run about $101/month more than Augusta. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Winston-Salem to match my Augusta lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Augusta, you'd need roughly $76,765/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