Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
11% cheaper
Fargo is 11% more affordable than Wilmington. A $75,000 salary in Wilmington is equivalent to $67,067 in Fargo.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Dakota salaries · Delaware salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Fargo has a housing index of 80 while Wilmington sits at 104 (national average = 100). The median home in Fargo costs $260,000 compared to $235,000 in Wilmington, a difference of $25,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,000 in Fargo versus $1,200 in Wilmington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Fargo scores 98 while Wilmington scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Fargo (105) are lower than Wilmington (106). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Fargo is $55,218 compared to $46,520 in Wilmington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Fargo.
Amazon affiliate links