Cost of Living in Charlotte, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
130.4
100 = national avg
+30.4 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$57,387
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$135,642
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing167.1
Food110.0
Transportation98.2
Healthcare108.0
Utilities119.4
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,538
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,686
per month
The overall cost of living index in Charlotte is 130.4, which is 30.4% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 167.1. A single adult needs to earn approximately $57,387 per year to cover basic expenses.