Moving from Winston-Salem to Tampa (2026)

Tampa has a COL index of 104 vs 87 for Winston-Salem (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 20% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$785 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
87104
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,300$2,000
per month
State tax
4.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Tampa to match your Winston-Salem lifestyle

Based on the 20% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Winston-SalemEquivalent in Tampa
$40K$47,816
$50K$59,770
$60K$71,724
$75K$89,655
$80K$95,632
$100K$119,540
$120K$143,448
$150K$179,310

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

ExpenseWinston-SalemTampa
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,741
1BR rent$1,300$2,000
Groceries$361$376
Transport$45$65
Utilities$150$195
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,543$2,040

Frequently asked questions

Is Tampa cheaper than Winston-Salem?

No. Tampa has a cost of living index of 104 vs 87 for Winston-Salem (100 = US average). That's about 20% more expensive.

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

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Tampa run about $785/month more than Winston-Salem. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Winston-Salem, you'd need roughly $89,655/year in Tampa. 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