Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Eugene, OR (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Eugene

Oregon
111

Winston-Salem is 36% cheaper than Eugene.

$1,033/mo ↓ 23%
Median Rent
$1,347/mo ↑ 30%
$57,673/yr ↓ 10%
Median Income
$63,836/yr ↑ 11%
$208,200 ↓ 52%
Home Value
$435,400 ↑ 109%
$1,040/mo ↓ 27%
Owner Costs
$1,421/mo ↑ 37%
250,887
Population
177,520

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
9.9%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.93%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Eugene, OR, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 111 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $314/month cheaper in Winston-Salem, saving renters about $3,768/year.

Median household income is $6,163/year higher in Eugene. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $435,400 in Eugene.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Eugene — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Eugene cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 111 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Eugene?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Eugene it's $1,347/month — a difference of $314/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Eugene?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $63,836 in Eugene. Median household income is $6,163/year higher in Eugene.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Oregon?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Oregon has 9.9% income tax, 0% sales tax, and 0.93% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Eugene?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Eugene has a cost index of 111 with rent of $1,347/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Eugene details →

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