Moving from Durham to Louisville (2026)

Louisville has a COL index of 88 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). You'd pay about 14% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$478/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10288
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,750$1,300
per month
State tax
4.5%4%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,491
per month

Salary needed in Louisville to match your Durham lifestyle

Based on the 14% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in DurhamEquivalent in Louisville
$40K$34,510
$50K$43,137
$60K$51,765
$75K$64,706
$80K$69,020
$100K$86,275
$120K$103,529
$150K$129,412

Monthly budget at $75K — Durham vs Louisville

ExpenseDurhamLouisville
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,491
1BR rent$1,750$1,300
Groceries$372$361
Transport$82$60
Utilities$155$162
Internet$62$60
Left after essentials$2,038$2,548

Frequently asked questions

Is Louisville cheaper than Durham?

Yes. Louisville has a cost of living index of 88 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). That's about 14% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Durham to Louisville?

On a $75K salary, moving from Durham to Louisville could save roughly $478/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,736/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Durham, you'd need roughly $64,706/year in Louisville. 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