Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
38% cheaper
Wilmington is 38% more affordable than Oakland. A $75,000 salary in Oakland is equivalent to $46,818 in Wilmington.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: California salaries · North Carolina salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Oakland has a housing index of 264 while Wilmington sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in Oakland costs $780,000 compared to $320,000 in Wilmington, a difference of $460,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,700 in Oakland versus $1,400 in Wilmington.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Oakland scores 109 while Wilmington scores 101.
Healthcare costs in Oakland (113) are higher than Wilmington (106).
Median household income in Oakland is $73,692 compared to $48,432 in Wilmington. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wilmington.
Amazon affiliate links