Moving from Durham to Norfolk (2026)

Norfolk has a COL index of 90 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). You'd pay about 12% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$371/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10290
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,750$1,400
per month
State tax
4.5%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,378
per month

Salary needed in Norfolk to match your Durham lifestyle

Based on the 12% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in DurhamEquivalent in Norfolk
$40K$35,294
$50K$44,118
$60K$52,941
$75K$66,176
$80K$70,588
$100K$88,235
$120K$105,882
$150K$132,353

Monthly budget at $75K — Durham vs Norfolk

ExpenseDurhamNorfolk
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,378
1BR rent$1,750$1,400
Groceries$372$365
Transport$82$55
Utilities$155$170
Internet$62$60
Left after essentials$2,038$2,328

Frequently asked questions

Is Norfolk cheaper than Durham?

Yes. Norfolk has a cost of living index of 90 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). That's about 12% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Durham to Norfolk?

On a $75K salary, moving from Durham to Norfolk could save roughly $371/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,452/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Durham, you'd need roughly $66,176/year in Norfolk. 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