Cost of Living in Shelby, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
88.4
100 = national avg
-11.6 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$38,910
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$91,968
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing95.8
Food88.8
Transportation77.5
Healthcare91.0
Utilities92.4
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$763
per month
2 Bedroom
$925
per month
The overall cost of living index in Shelby is 88.4, which is 11.6% below the national average. Housing costs are below the national average at an index of 95.8. A single adult needs to earn approximately $38,910 per year to cover basic expenses.