Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Norman, OK (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Winston-Salem is 7% cheaper than Norman.

$1,033/mo ↓ 3%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↑ 3%
$57,673/yr ↓ 11%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↑ 13%
$208,200 ↓ 13%
Home Value
$239,300 ↑ 15%
$1,040/mo ↓ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↑ 8%
250,887
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
4.75%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Norman, OK, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 76 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $7,387/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Norman — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Norman cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Norman?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $31/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Norman?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $7,387/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Oklahoma?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Norman details →

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