Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
Charleston is 18% more affordable than Wilmington. A $75,000 salary in Wilmington is equivalent to $61,298 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 · Delaware salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Charleston has a housing index of 62 while Wilmington sits at 104 (national average = 100). The median home in Charleston costs $135,000 compared to $235,000 in Wilmington, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $850 in Charleston versus $1,200 in Wilmington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Charleston scores 97 while Wilmington scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Charleston (91) are lower than Wilmington (106).
Median household income in Charleston is $42,034 compared to $46,520 in Wilmington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Charleston.
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