Moving from Nashville to Wilmington (2026)
Wilmington has a COL index of 93 vs 112 for Nashville (100 = US average). You'd pay about 17% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Wilmington to match your Nashville lifestyle
Based on the 17% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Nashville | Equivalent in Wilmington |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,214 |
| $50K | $41,518 |
| $60K | $49,821 |
| $75K | $62,277 |
| $80K | $66,429 |
| $100K | $83,036 |
| $120K | $99,643 |
| $150K | $124,554 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Nashville vs Wilmington
| Expense | Nashville | Wilmington |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,800 | $1,550 |
| Groceries | $365 | $372 |
| Transport | $70 | $45 |
| Utilities | $170 | $158 |
| Internet | $60 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $2,276 | $2,272 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Wilmington cheaper than Nashville?
Yes. Wilmington has a cost of living index of 93 vs 112 for Nashville (100 = US average). That's about 17% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Nashville to Wilmington?
On a $75K salary, moving from Nashville to Wilmington could save roughly $278/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,336/year.
What salary do I need in Wilmington to match my Nashville lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Nashville, you'd need roughly $62,277/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