Moving from Fort Wayne to Wilmington (2026)
Wilmington has a COL index of 93 vs 81 for Fort Wayne (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 15% more for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Wilmington to match your Fort Wayne lifestyle
Based on the 15% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Fort Wayne | Equivalent in Wilmington |
|---|---|
| $40K | $45,926 |
| $50K | $57,407 |
| $60K | $68,889 |
| $75K | $86,111 |
| $80K | $91,852 |
| $100K | $114,815 |
| $120K | $137,778 |
| $150K | $172,222 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Fort Wayne vs Wilmington
| Expense | Fort Wayne | Wilmington |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,541 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,000 | $1,550 |
| Groceries | $353 | $372 |
| Transport | $42 | $45 |
| Utilities | $155 | $158 |
| Internet | $58 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,933 | $2,272 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Wilmington cheaper than Fort Wayne?
No. Wilmington has a cost of living index of 93 vs 81 for Fort Wayne (100 = US average). That's about 15% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Fort Wayne to Wilmington?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Wilmington run about $579/month more than Fort Wayne. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Wilmington to match my Fort Wayne lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Fort Wayne, you'd need roughly $86,111/year in Wilmington. 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