Moving from Bismarck to Winston-Salem (2026)

Winston-Salem has a COL index of 87 vs 87 for Bismarck (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 0% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$138 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8787
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,150$1,300
per month
State tax
2.5%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Winston-Salem to match your Bismarck lifestyle

Based on the 0% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in BismarckEquivalent in Winston-Salem
$40K$40,000
$50K$50,000
$60K$60,000
$75K$75,000
$80K$80,000
$100K$100,000
$120K$120,000
$150K$150,000

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

ExpenseBismarckWinston-Salem
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,459
1BR rent$1,150$1,300
Groceries$369$361
Transport$42$45
Utilities$152$150
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$2,806$2,543

Frequently asked questions

Is Winston-Salem cheaper than Bismarck?

No. Winston-Salem has a cost of living index of 87 vs 87 for Bismarck (100 = US average). That's about 0% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Winston-Salem run about $138/month more than Bismarck. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

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