Moving from Cleveland to Winston-Salem (2026)

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

Pay ~$3 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8587
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,250$1,300
per month
State tax
3.5%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,522$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Winston-Salem to match your Cleveland lifestyle

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

Your salary in ClevelandEquivalent 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 — Cleveland vs Winston-Salem

ExpenseClevelandWinston-Salem
Monthly take-home$4,522$4,459
1BR rent$1,250$1,300
Groceries$369$361
Transport$72$45
Utilities$168$150
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,603$2,543

Frequently asked questions

Is Winston-Salem cheaper than Cleveland?

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

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

On a $75K salary, moving from Cleveland to Winston-Salem could save roughly $3/month on core expenses. That's ~$36/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Cleveland, 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