Moving from Reno to Durham (2026)

Durham has a COL index of 102 vs 101 for Reno (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$95 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
101102
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,650$1,750
per month
State tax
None4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Durham to match your Reno lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in RenoEquivalent in Durham
$40K$40,396
$50K$50,495
$60K$60,594
$75K$75,743
$80K$80,792
$100K$100,990
$120K$121,188
$150K$151,485

Monthly budget at $75K — Reno vs Durham

ExpenseRenoDurham
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,459
1BR rent$1,650$1,750
Groceries$384$372
Transport$62$82
Utilities$165$155
Internet$65$62
Left after essentials$2,415$2,038

Frequently asked questions

Is Durham cheaper than Reno?

No. Durham has a cost of living index of 102 vs 101 for Reno (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Reno to Durham?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Durham run about $95/month more than Reno. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Durham to match my Reno lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Reno, you'd need roughly $75,743/year in Durham. 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