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.
Key differences
Salary needed in Wilmington to match your Phoenix lifestyle
Based on the 7% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Phoenix | Equivalent 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 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Phoenix vs Wilmington
| Expense | Phoenix | Wilmington |
|---|---|---|
| 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, moving from Phoenix to Wilmington could save roughly $16/month on core expenses. That's ~$192/year.
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 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