Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Rochester, NY (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Rochester

New York
61

Winston-Salem is 16% more expensive than Rochester.

$1,033/mo ≈ Same
Median Rent
$1,039/mo ≈ Same
$57,673/yr ↑ 24%
Median Income
$46,628/yr ↓ 19%
$208,200 ↑ 73%
Home Value
$120,600 ↓ 42%
$1,040/mo ↑ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,009/mo ↓ 3%
250,887
Population
209,720

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
10.9%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.62%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Rochester, NY, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 61 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $11,045/year higher in Winston-Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $120,600 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Rochester — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 71 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Rochester?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Rochester it's $1,039/month — a difference of $6/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Rochester?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $46,628 in Rochester. Median household income is $11,045/year higher in Winston-Salem.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and New York?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 61 with rent of $1,039/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Rochester details →

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