Moving from Oakland to Durham (2026)
Durham has a COL index of 102 vs 162 for Oakland (100 = US average). You'd pay about 37% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,023/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
162102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,700$1,750
per month
State tax
9.3%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,159$4,459
per month
Salary needed in Durham to match your Oakland lifestyle
Based on the 37% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Oakland | Equivalent in Durham |
|---|---|
| $40K | $25,185 |
| $50K | $31,481 |
| $60K | $37,778 |
| $75K | $47,222 |
| $80K | $50,370 |
| $100K | $62,963 |
| $120K | $75,556 |
| $150K | $94,444 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Oakland vs Durham
| Expense | Oakland | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,159 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $2,700 | $1,750 |
| Groceries | $426 | $372 |
| Transport | $100 | $82 |
| Utilities | $148 | $155 |
| Internet | $70 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $715 | $2,038 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Durham cheaper than Oakland?
Yes. Durham has a cost of living index of 102 vs 162 for Oakland (100 = US average). That's about 37% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Oakland to Durham?
On a $75K salary, moving from Oakland to Durham could save roughly $1,023/month on core expenses. That's ~$12,276/year.
What salary do I need in Durham to match my Oakland lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Oakland, you'd need roughly $47,222/year in Durham. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Durham to OaklandOakland vs Durham — full comparisonOakland cost of livingDurham cost of living
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