Moving from Phoenix to Wilmington (2026)

Wilmington has a COL index of 93 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). You'd pay about 7% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$175/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
100 โ†’ 93
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500 โ†’ $1,550
per month
State tax
2.5% โ†’ 4.5%
income tax
COL difference
100 โ†’ 93
7% cheaper

Salary needed in Wilmington to match your Phoenix lifestyle

Based on the 7% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in PhoenixEquivalent in Wilmington
$40K$37,200
$50K$46,500
$60K$55,800
$75K$69,750
$80K$74,400
$100K$93,000
$120K$111,600
$150K$139,500

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Save ~$16/moon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Phoenix vs Wilmington

ExpensePhoenixWilmington
Monthly take-home$4,584$4,459
1BR rent$1,500$1,550
Groceries$369$372
Transport$64$45
Utilities$210$158
Internet$60$62
Left after essentials$2,381$2,272

Frequently asked questions

Is Wilmington cheaper than Phoenix?

Yes. Wilmington has a cost of living index of 93 vs 100 for Phoenix (100 = US average). That's about 7% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Phoenix to Wilmington?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Wilmington run about $175/month more than Phoenix. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Wilmington to match my Phoenix lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Phoenix, you'd need roughly $69,750/year in Wilmington. This is based on the overall COL index difference.

Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow ยท BLS ยท Numbeo ยท For general guidance only