Cost of Living in Winston-Salem, NC

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Winston-Salem? 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 ($1,232/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Winston-Salem metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $45,399, or roughly $3,783 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Winston-Salem metro has a cost of living index of 68.8 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 31% below the national average, Winston-Salem is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Winston-Salem represents approximately 21% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.