Moving from Winston-Salem to Detroit (2026)

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

Pay ~$47 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8787
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,200
per month
State tax
4.5%4.1%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,484
per month

Salary needed in Detroit to match your Winston-Salem lifestyle

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

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

Monthly budget at $75K — Winston-Salem vs Detroit

ExpenseWinston-SalemDetroit
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,484
1BR rent$1,300$1,200
Groceries$361$369
Transport$45$65
Utilities$150$175
Internet$60$60
Left after essentials$2,543$2,615

Frequently asked questions

Is Detroit cheaper than Winston-Salem?

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

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

On a $75K salary, moving from Winston-Salem to Detroit could save roughly $47/month on core expenses. That's ~$564/year.

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

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