Moving from Durham to Scranton (2026)

Scranton has a COL index of 83 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). You'd pay about 19% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$725/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10283
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,750$1,050
per month
State tax
4.5%3.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,547
per month

Salary needed in Scranton to match your Durham lifestyle

Based on the 19% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in DurhamEquivalent in Scranton
$40K$32,549
$50K$40,686
$60K$48,824
$75K$61,029
$80K$65,098
$100K$81,373
$120K$97,647
$150K$122,059

Monthly budget at $75K — Durham vs Scranton

ExpenseDurhamScranton
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,547
1BR rent$1,750$1,050
Groceries$372$361
Transport$82$58
Utilities$155$165
Internet$62$62
Left after essentials$2,038$2,851

Frequently asked questions

Is Scranton cheaper than Durham?

Yes. Scranton has a cost of living index of 83 vs 102 for Durham (100 = US average). That's about 19% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Durham to Scranton?

On a $75K salary, moving from Durham to Scranton could save roughly $725/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,700/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Durham, you'd need roughly $61,029/year in Scranton. 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