Moving from Raleigh to Lincoln (2026)

Lincoln has a COL index of 86 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). You'd pay about 15% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$580/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
10186
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,150
per month
State tax
4.5%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,378
per month

Salary needed in Lincoln to match your Raleigh lifestyle

Based on the 15% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in RaleighEquivalent in Lincoln
$40K$34,059
$50K$42,574
$60K$51,089
$75K$63,861
$80K$68,119
$100K$85,149
$120K$102,178
$150K$127,723

Monthly budget at $75K — Raleigh vs Lincoln

ExpenseRaleighLincoln
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,378
1BR rent$1,700$1,150
Groceries$365$357
Transport$70$48
Utilities$150$152
Internet$60$58
Left after essentials$2,114$2,613

Frequently asked questions

Is Lincoln cheaper than Raleigh?

Yes. Lincoln has a cost of living index of 86 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). That's about 15% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Raleigh to Lincoln?

On a $75K salary, moving from Raleigh to Lincoln could save roughly $580/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,960/year.

What salary do I need in Lincoln to match my Raleigh lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Raleigh, you'd need roughly $63,861/year in Lincoln. 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