Cost of Living: Winston-Salem, NC vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Winston-Salem

North Carolina
71
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Winston-Salem and Tuscaloosa have a similar cost of living.

$1,033/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 3%
$57,673/yr ↑ 19%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↓ 16%
$208,200 ↓ 12%
Home Value
$236,600 ↑ 14%
$1,040/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ≈ Same
250,887
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

4.5%
Income Tax
5.0%
4.75%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

21.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,137/year higher in Winston-Salem. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 73 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $28/month.
Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $9,137/year higher in Winston-Salem.
How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Alabama?
North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Winston-Salem or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Winston-Salem details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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