Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Akron, OH (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Akron

Ohio
55

Winston-Salem is 29% more expensive than Akron.

$1,033/mo ↑ 11%
Median Rent
$930/mo ↓ 10%
$57,673/yr ↑ 19%
Median Income
$48,544/yr ↓ 16%
$208,200 ↑ 87%
Home Value
$111,200 ↓ 47%
$1,040/mo ↑ 15%
Owner Costs
$904/mo ↓ 13%
250,887
Population
189,526

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
3.5%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
5.75%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.53%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Akron, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 55 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $103/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $1,236/year.

Median household income is $9,129/year higher in Winston-Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $111,200 in Akron.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Akron — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Akron cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 71 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Akron?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Akron it's $930/month — a difference of $103/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Akron?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $48,544 in Akron. Median household income is $9,129/year higher in Winston-Salem.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Ohio?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Akron?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Akron has a cost index of 55 with rent of $930/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Akron details →

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