Moving from Wilmington to Dallas (2026)

Dallas has a COL index of 99 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 6% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$5 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
9399
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,550$1,500
per month
State tax
4.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Dallas to match your Wilmington lifestyle

Based on the 6% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in WilmingtonEquivalent in Dallas
$40K$42,581
$50K$53,226
$60K$63,871
$75K$79,839
$80K$85,161
$100K$106,452
$120K$127,742
$150K$159,677

Monthly budget at $75K — Wilmington vs Dallas

ExpenseWilmingtonDallas
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,741
1BR rent$1,550$1,500
Groceries$372$361
Transport$45$96
Utilities$158$175
Internet$62$60
Left after essentials$2,272$2,549

Frequently asked questions

Is Dallas cheaper than Wilmington?

No. Dallas has a cost of living index of 99 vs 93 for Wilmington (100 = US average). That's about 6% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Wilmington to Dallas?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Dallas run about $5/month more than Wilmington. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Wilmington, you'd need roughly $79,839/year in Dallas. 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