Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Durham is 12% more affordable than Frisco. A $75,000 salary in Frisco is equivalent to $65,870 in Durham.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Durham has a housing index of 104 while Frisco sits at 142 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $500,000 in Frisco, a difference of $160,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $1,900 in Frisco.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Durham scores 100 while Frisco scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are higher than Frisco (100).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $126,048 in Frisco. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Durham.
Amazon affiliate links