Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Scottsdale, AZ (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina

Scottsdale

Arizona

165

Winston-Salem is 94% cheaper than Scottsdale.

$1,033/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$1,910/mo ↑ 85%

$57,673/yr ↓ 46%

Median Income

$107,372/yr ↑ 86%

$208,200 ↓ 71%

Home Value

$709,900 ↑ 241%

$1,040/mo ↓ 43%

Owner Costs

$1,824/mo ↑ 75%

250,887

Population

242,169

Tax Comparison

4.5%

Income Tax

2.5%

4.75%

Sales Tax

5.6%

0.8%

Property Tax

0.62%

Affordability

21.5%

rent-to-income

Affordability

21.3%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Scottsdale, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 165 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $877/month cheaper in Winston-Salem, saving renters about $10,524/year.

Median household income is $49,699/year higher in Scottsdale. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $709,900 in Scottsdale.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Scottsdale slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Scottsdale — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Scottsdale cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 165 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Scottsdale?

Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Scottsdale it's $1,910/month — a difference of $877/month.

Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Scottsdale?

Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $107,372 in Scottsdale. Median household income is $49,699/year higher in Scottsdale.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Arizona?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Winston-Salem or Scottsdale?

It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Scottsdale has a cost index of 165 with rent of $1,910/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.