Cost of Living in Salem, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
93.5
100 = national avg
-6.5 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$41,127
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$97,208
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing80.1
Food100.9
Transportation101.9
Healthcare100.8
Utilities96.6
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$908
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,095
per month
The overall cost of living index in Salem is 93.5, which is 6.5% below the national average. Housing costs are below the national average at an index of 80.1. A single adult needs to earn approximately $41,127 per year to cover basic expenses.