Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Huntsville, AL (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Huntsville

Alabama
78

Winston-Salem is 9% cheaper than Huntsville.

$1,033/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,078/mo ↑ 4%
$57,673/yr ↓ 19%
Median Income
$70,778/yr ↑ 23%
$208,200 ↓ 21%
Home Value
$263,100 ↑ 26%
$1,040/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,046/mo ≈ Same
250,887
Population
218,814

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
5.0%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Huntsville, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 78 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $13,105/year higher in Huntsville. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $263,100 in Huntsville.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Huntsville — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Huntsville cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 78 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Huntsville?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Huntsville it's $1,078/month — a difference of $45/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Huntsville?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $70,778 in Huntsville. Median household income is $13,105/year higher in Huntsville.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Alabama?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Huntsville?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Huntsville has a cost index of 78 with rent of $1,078/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Huntsville details →

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