Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Providence, RI (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Providence

Rhode Island
99

Winston-Salem is 28% cheaper than Providence.

$1,033/mo ↓ 23%
Median Rent
$1,333/mo ↑ 29%
$57,673/yr ↓ 14%
Median Income
$66,772/yr ↑ 16%
$208,200 ↓ 36%
Home Value
$322,800 ↑ 55%
$1,040/mo ↓ 29%
Owner Costs
$1,467/mo ↑ 41%
250,887
Population
190,214

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
5.99%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
7.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.53%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Providence, RI, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 99 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $300/month cheaper in Winston-Salem, saving renters about $3,600/year.

Median household income is $9,099/year higher in Providence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $322,800 in Providence.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Providence — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Providence cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Providence?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Providence it's $1,333/month — a difference of $300/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Providence?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $66,772 in Providence. Median household income is $9,099/year higher in Providence.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Rhode Island?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Providence?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Providence has a cost index of 99 with rent of $1,333/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Providence details →

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