Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
39% cheaper
Durham is 39% more affordable than Los Angeles. A $75,000 salary in Los Angeles is equivalent to $45,633 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 Los Angeles sits at 262 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $850,000 in Los Angeles, a difference of $510,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $2,700 in Los Angeles.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Durham scores 100 while Los Angeles scores 107.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are higher than Los Angeles (103).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $65,290 in Los Angeles. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Durham.
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