Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
9% cheaper
Charleston is 9% more affordable than Murfreesboro. A $75,000 salary in Murfreesboro is equivalent to $68,548 in Charleston.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: West Virginia salaries · Tennessee salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 62 while Murfreesboro sits at 85 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $135,000 compared to $325,000 in Murfreesboro, a difference of $190,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $850 in Charleston versus $1,350 in Murfreesboro.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Charleston scores 97 while Murfreesboro scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (91) are lower than Murfreesboro (96).
Median household income in Charleston is $42,034 compared to $55,200 in Murfreesboro. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
Amazon affiliate links