Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
10% cheaper
Grand Rapids is 10% more affordable than Durham. A $75,000 salary in Durham is equivalent to $67,574 in Grand Rapids.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · Michigan salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Durham has a housing index of 104 while Grand Rapids sits at 78 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $240,000 in Grand Rapids, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $1,200 in Grand Rapids.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Durham scores 100 while Grand Rapids scores 96. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are higher than Grand Rapids (98).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $49,982 in Grand Rapids. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Grand Rapids.
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