Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Baton Rouge is 12% more affordable than Wilmington. A $75,000 salary in Wilmington is equivalent to $66,262 in Baton Rouge.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Louisiana salaries · North Carolina salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Baton Rouge has a housing index of 75 while Wilmington sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in Baton Rouge costs $195,000 compared to $320,000 in Wilmington, a difference of $125,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,100 in Baton Rouge versus $1,400 in Wilmington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Baton Rouge scores 96 while Wilmington scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Baton Rouge (93) are lower than Wilmington (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Baton Rouge is $44,982 compared to $48,432 in Wilmington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Baton Rouge.
Amazon affiliate links