Cost of Living in Durham, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
133.1
100 = national avg
+33.1 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$58,580
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$138,461
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing164.2
Food110.6
Transportation121.1
Healthcare108.4
Utilities119.2
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,507
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,711
per month
The overall cost of living index in Durham is 133.1, which is 33.1% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 164.2. A single adult needs to earn approximately $58,580 per year to cover basic expenses.