Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
18% cheaper
Durham is 18% more affordable than Scottsdale. A $75,000 salary in Scottsdale is equivalent to $61,585 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 · Arizona salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Durham has a housing index of 104 while Scottsdale sits at 162 (national average = 100). The median home in Durham costs $340,000 compared to $580,000 in Scottsdale, a difference of $240,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Durham versus $2,000 in Scottsdale.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Durham scores 100 while Scottsdale scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Durham (108) are higher than Scottsdale (95).
Median household income in Durham is $57,738 compared to $92,298 in Scottsdale. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Durham.
Amazon affiliate links