Cost of Living in Winston-Salem, NC 2026

Affordability

How far your income goes in Winston-Salem

21.5%

Rent-to-Income Ratio

Affordable

Rent takes less than 25% of median income — considered affordable by HUD standards.

Tax Burden in North Carolina

State-level tax rates that affect your costs

4.5%

Income Tax (Top Rate)

4.75%

Sales Tax

0.8%

Property Tax Rate

Estimated Annual Costs

$12,396

Annual Rent

$2,595

State Income Tax

$1,666

Property Tax (est.)

Cost of Living Overview

Winston-Salem is significantly cheaper than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. With a cost index of 71 (where 100 equals the national median), Winston-Salem residents can expect to pay median rent of $1,033/month while earning a median household income of $57,673/year.

The median home value in Winston-Salem, NC is $208,200, with typical monthly owner costs around $1,040 including mortgage, insurance, and taxes. The median rent-to-income ratio of 21.5% means housing is relatively affordable here — well below the 30% threshold that HUD considers cost-burdened.

North Carolina has a moderate income tax rate of 4.5%. Combined with a 4.75% sales tax rate and 0.8% effective property tax rate, the overall tax environment is a factor in the total cost of living in Winston-Salem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about living costs in Winston-Salem

What is the cost of living in Winston-Salem, NC?

The cost of living index in Winston-Salem, NC is 71 (US average = 100). Median monthly rent is $1,033, median household income is $57,673/year, and the median home value is $208,200.

Is Winston-Salem, NC affordable?

Yes, Winston-Salem is more affordable than the national average with a cost index of 71. The rent-to-income ratio is 21.5%—below the 30%% threshold considered affordable by HUD.

What is the average rent in Winston-Salem, NC?

The median gross rent in Winston-Salem, NC is $1,033 per month according to the US Census Bureau ACS 2023 data. Annual rent costs approximately $12,396.

What is the median household income in Winston-Salem?

The median household income in Winston-Salem, NC is $57,673 per year. This compares to the national median of approximately $80,000.

What are the taxes like in North Carolina?

North Carolina has a top income tax rate of 4.5%, a sales tax of 4.75%, and an effective property tax rate of 0.8%.

Winston-Salem, NC

Affordability

Tax Burden in North Carolina

Estimated Annual Costs

Cost of Living Overview

Frequently Asked Questions

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