Moving from Winston-Salem to St. Paul (2026)

St. Paul has a COL index of 97 vs 87 for Winston-Salem (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 11% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$321 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8797
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$1,500
per month
State tax
4.5%9.9%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,122
per month

Salary needed in St. Paul to match your Winston-Salem lifestyle

Based on the 11% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Winston-SalemEquivalent in St. Paul
$40K$44,598
$50K$55,747
$60K$66,897
$75K$83,621
$80K$89,195
$100K$111,494
$120K$133,793
$150K$167,241

Monthly budget at $75K — Winston-Salem vs St. Paul

ExpenseWinston-SalemSt. Paul
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,122
1BR rent$1,300$1,500
Groceries$361$384
Transport$45$95
Utilities$150$195
Internet$60$63
Left after essentials$2,543$1,885

Frequently asked questions

Is St. Paul cheaper than Winston-Salem?

No. St. Paul has a cost of living index of 97 vs 87 for Winston-Salem (100 = US average). That's about 11% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Winston-Salem to St. Paul?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in St. Paul run about $321/month more than Winston-Salem. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in St. Paul to match my Winston-Salem lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Winston-Salem, you'd need roughly $83,621/year in St. Paul. 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