Moving from Portland to Wilmington (2026)
Wilmington has a COL index of 93 vs 125 for Portland (100 = US average). You'd pay about 26% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Wilmington to match your Portland lifestyle
Based on the 26% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Portland | Equivalent in Wilmington |
|---|---|
| $40K | $29,760 |
| $50K | $37,200 |
| $60K | $44,640 |
| $75K | $55,800 |
| $80K | $59,520 |
| $100K | $74,400 |
| $120K | $89,280 |
| $150K | $111,600 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Portland vs Wilmington
| Expense | Portland | Wilmington |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,122 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,550 |
| Groceries | $407 | $372 |
| Transport | $100 | $45 |
| Utilities | $130 | $158 |
| Internet | $65 | $62 |
| Left after essentials | $1,520 | $2,272 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Wilmington cheaper than Portland?
Yes. Wilmington has a cost of living index of 93 vs 125 for Portland (100 = US average). That's about 26% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Portland to Wilmington?
On a $75K salary, moving from Portland to Wilmington could save roughly $415/month on core expenses. That's ~$4,980/year.
What salary do I need in Wilmington to match my Portland lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Portland, you'd need roughly $55,800/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