Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
14% cheaper
Durham is 14% more affordable than New Haven. A $75,000 salary in New Haven is equivalent to $64,195 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 · Connecticut salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Durham has a housing index of 104 while New Haven sits at 137 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $250,000 in New Haven, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $1,400 in New Haven.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Durham scores 100 while New Haven scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are lower than New Haven (114).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $42,158 in New Haven. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Durham.
Amazon affiliate links