Moving from Roanoke to Winston-Salem (2026)

Winston-Salem has a COL index of 87 vs 87 for Roanoke (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 0% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$19 more/mo
on rent + taxes ยท $75K salary baseline

Change cities

Key differences

COL index
87 โ†’ 87
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,200 โ†’ $1,300
per month
State tax
5.8% โ†’ 4.5%
income tax
COL difference
87 โ†’ 87
0% more expensive

Salary needed in Winston-Salem to match your Roanoke lifestyle

Based on the 0% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in RoanokeEquivalent in Winston-Salem
$40K$40,000
$50K$50,000
$60K$60,000
$75K$75,000
$80K$80,000
$100K$100,000
$120K$120,000
$150K$150,000

๐Ÿ’ต Household income (before tax)

$75K
$
$30K$300K
Pay ~$92/mo moreon core expenses at $75K

Monthly budget at $75K โ€” Roanoke vs Winston-Salem

ExpenseRoanokeWinston-Salem
Monthly take-home$4,378$4,459
1BR rent$1,200$1,300
Groceries$361$361
Transport$48$45
Utilities$155$150
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,554$2,543

Frequently asked questions

Is Winston-Salem cheaper than Roanoke?

No. Winston-Salem has a cost of living index of 87 vs 87 for Roanoke (100 = US average). That's about 0% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Roanoke to Winston-Salem?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Winston-Salem run about $19/month more than Roanoke. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Winston-Salem to match my Roanoke lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Roanoke, you'd need roughly $75,000/year in Winston-Salem. 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