Raleigh, NC vs Wilmington, NC: Cost of Living Comparison
Wilmington has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Raleigh | Wilmington | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 107 | 98 | Wilmington |
| Housing | 109 ($1,028) | 101 ($918) | Wilmington |
| Transportation | 102 ($3.50) | 102 ($3.50) | Tie |
| Food & groceries | 110 ($451) | 86 ($353) | Wilmington |
| Utilities | 105 ($196) | 101 ($182) | Wilmington |
| Healthcare | 105 ($142) | 101 ($131) | Wilmington |
| Median annual wage | 99 ($47,970) | 99 ($47,970) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raleigh, NC or Wilmington, NC cheaper to live in?
Wilmington, NC is cheaper overall by about 9 index points (Raleigh, NC: 107, Wilmington, NC: 98; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Raleigh, NC vs Wilmington, NC?
A single adult needs roughly $37,450/year in Raleigh, NC and $34,300/year in Wilmington, NC to cover basic living costs.