Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Little Rock, AR (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Little Rock

Arkansas
74

Winston-Salem is 4% cheaper than Little Rock.

$1,033/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,067/mo ↑ 3%
$57,673/yr ↓ 5%
Median Income
$60,583/yr ↑ 5%
$208,200 ↓ 6%
Home Value
$221,200 ↑ 6%
$1,040/mo ↓ 5%
Owner Costs
$1,099/mo ↑ 6%
250,887
Population
202,739

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
4.4%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
6.5%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.62%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Little Rock, AR, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 74 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $2,910/year higher in Little Rock. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $221,200 in Little Rock.

Arkansas has a lower income tax rate, making Little Rock slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Little Rock — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Little Rock cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 74 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Little Rock?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Little Rock it's $1,067/month — a difference of $34/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Little Rock?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $60,583 in Little Rock. Median household income is $2,910/year higher in Little Rock.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Arkansas?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Arkansas has 4.4% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Little Rock?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Little Rock has a cost index of 74 with rent of $1,067/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Little Rock details →

More Comparisons

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