Is Winston-Salem more expensive than Raleigh?

Winston-Salem is 18.1% more expensive than Raleigh overall. Rent is 14.8% lower, groceries 38.0% more expensive, and restaurants 1.8% more expensive.

Which city has better purchasing power, Raleigh or Winston-Salem?

Raleigh has a purchasing power index of 147.0 while Winston-Salem has 112.7 (NYC = 100). Raleigh offers better purchasing power.

Cost of Living Comparison · 2026

🇺🇸 Raleigh vs 🇺🇸 Winston-Salem

2026

Winston-Salem is 18.1% more expensive

Category	🇺🇸 Raleigh	🇺🇸 Winston-Salem	Difference
Cost of Living	68.0	80.3	+18.1%
Rent	38.6	32.9	-14.8%
Groceries	79.2	109.3	+38.0%
Restaurants	72.0	73.3	+1.8%
Purchasing Power	147.0	112.7	-23.3%

Data verified Q1 2026 · Source: Numbeo cost-of-living indices (NYC = 100 baseline) · Indices reflect relative costs; absolute prices vary by neighbourhood.

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🇺🇸 Cost of Living in Raleigh

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