Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs South Fulton, GA (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

South Fulton

Georgia
103

Winston-Salem is 31% cheaper than South Fulton.

$1,033/mo ↓ 36%
Median Rent
$1,607/mo ↑ 56%
$57,673/yr ↓ 29%
Median Income
$81,798/yr ↑ 42%
$208,200 ↓ 23%
Home Value
$270,600 ↑ 30%
$1,040/mo ↓ 33%
Owner Costs
$1,541/mo ↑ 48%
250,887
Population
109,157

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
5.49%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and South Fulton, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 103 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $574/month cheaper in Winston-Salem, saving renters about $6,888/year.

Median household income is $24,125/year higher in South Fulton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $270,600 in South Fulton.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs South Fulton — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or South Fulton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 103 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and South Fulton?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in South Fulton it's $1,607/month — a difference of $574/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or South Fulton?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $81,798 in South Fulton. Median household income is $24,125/year higher in South Fulton.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Georgia?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or South Fulton?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while South Fulton has a cost index of 103 with rent of $1,607/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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More Comparisons

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