Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
You'd spend $5.0K/month more in Arlington, VA
$150.0K in your current city equals $210.2K in Arlington, VA
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Winston-Salem, NC
Arlington, VA
Winston-Salem, NC
The Tar Heel State
Located in North Carolina, this city has a population of 250K residents.
Arlington, VA
The Old Dominion State
Located in Virginia, this city has a population of 239K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Winston-Salem, NC vs Arlington, VA
| Category | Winston-Salem, NC | Arlington, VA | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | $2,131/mo | $5,461/mo | ↑ $3,330more | 156.3% |
Transportation | $1,202/mo | $1,842/mo | ↑ $640more | 53.2% |
Other | $1,574/mo | $1,783/mo | ↑ $209more | 13.3% |
Groceries | $959/mo | $1,067/mo | ↑ $107more | 11.2% |
Healthcare | $601/mo | $625/mo | ↑ $23.66more | 3.9% |
All Utilities | $519/mo | $502/mo | ↓ $16.82less | 3.2% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $960–$1,260/mo
💡 Note: Rent prices are based on HUD Fair Market Rent data and represent median costs. Actual prices vary by neighborhood, amenities, and condition. Source: HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents FY2026.
Home Values
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Winston-Salem, NC
Arlington, VA
Additional Tax Information
Winston-Salem, NC Tax Rates
Arlington, VA Tax Rates
💡 Note: Tax calculations are estimates based on 2024/2025 tax brackets for single filers with standard deduction. Actual taxes may vary based on filing status, deductions, credits, and local variations.
Environment
💰 See how taxes change too — compare take-home pay between North Carolina and Virginia on TaxTakeHome.com
Where your money goes further
Cities cheaper than Winston-Salem, NC on a $150.0K salary
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