Moving from Wilmington to Ann Arbor (2026)

Ann Arbor has a COL index of 105 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 13% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$237 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
93105
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,550$1,750
per month
State tax
4.5%4.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,484
per month

Salary needed in Ann Arbor to match your Wilmington lifestyle

Based on the 13% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in WilmingtonEquivalent in Ann Arbor
$40K$45,161
$50K$56,452
$60K$67,742
$75K$84,677
$80K$90,323
$100K$112,903
$120K$135,484
$150K$169,355

Monthly budget at $75K — Wilmington vs Ann Arbor

ExpenseWilmingtonAnn Arbor
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,484
1BR rent$1,550$1,750
Groceries$372$384
Transport$45$65
Utilities$158$162
Internet$62$63
Left after essentials$2,272$2,060

Frequently asked questions

Is Ann Arbor cheaper than Wilmington?

No. Ann Arbor has a cost of living index of 105 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). That's about 13% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Wilmington to Ann Arbor?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Ann Arbor run about $237/month more than Wilmington. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Ann Arbor to match my Wilmington lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Wilmington, you'd need roughly $84,677/year in Ann Arbor. 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