Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
43% cheaper
Durham is 43% more affordable than Irvine. A $75,000 salary in Irvine is equivalent to $42,556 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 · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Durham has a housing index of 104 while Irvine sits at 294 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $1,050,000 in Irvine, a difference of $710,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $3,000 in Irvine.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Durham scores 100 while Irvine scores 108.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are lower than Irvine (109).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $108,038 in Irvine. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Durham.
Amazon affiliate links