Tulsa, OK vs Winston-Salem, NC: 67 vs 71

$998/mo ↓ 3%

Median Rent

$1,033/mo ↑ 4%

$58,407/yr ↑ 1%

Median Income

$57,673/yr ↓ 1%

$189,600 ↓ 9%

Home Value

$208,200 ↑ 10%

$1,027/mo ↓ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,040/mo ↑ 1%

412,322

Population

250,887

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tulsa, OK and Winston-Salem, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 71 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $734/year higher in Tulsa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tulsa is $189,600 compared to $208,200 in Winston-Salem.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Winston-Salem slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tulsa vs Winston-Salem — common questions

Is Tulsa or Winston-Salem cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tulsa is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 71 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tulsa and Winston-Salem?

Median rent in Tulsa is $998/month and in Winston-Salem it's $1,033/month — a difference of $35/month.

Which city has higher income, Tulsa or Winston-Salem?

Median household income is $58,407 in Tulsa and $57,673 in Winston-Salem. Median household income is $734/year higher in Tulsa.

How do taxes compare between Oklahoma and North Carolina?

Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Tulsa or Winston-Salem?

It depends on your priorities. Tulsa has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $998/mo, while Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with rent of $1,033/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Tulsa, OK vs Winston-Salem, NC (2026)

Tulsa

Winston-Salem

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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