Cost of Living in Asheville, NC

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Asheville? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $9,817 per year — combining federal taxes with North Carolina's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,567/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Asheville metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $41,379, or roughly $3,448 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Asheville metro has a cost of living index of 97.3 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). Asheville sits close to the national average, meaning everyday expenses are broadly in line with what you'd find across most U.S. cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Asheville represents approximately 27% of gross income. That approaches the 30% threshold commonly used to define affordability. A smaller unit or a higher salary would improve the picture.