Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Winston-Salem is 41% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,033/mo ↓ 33%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 50%
$57,673/yr ↓ 29%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↑ 41%
$208,200 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 109%
$1,040/mo ↓ 37%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 57%
250,887
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
4.25%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

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

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $519/month cheaper in Winston-Salem, saving renters about $6,228/year.

Median household income is $23,416/year higher in Ann Arbor. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $519/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $23,416/year higher in Ann Arbor.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Michigan?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Ann Arbor details →

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