Cost of Living in Wilmington, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
118.9
100 = national avg
+18.9 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$52,302
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$123,622
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing153.8
Food98.8
Transportation97.7
Healthcare99.1
Utilities110.1
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,513
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,659
per month
The overall cost of living index in Wilmington is 118.9, which is 18.9% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 153.8. A single adult needs to earn approximately $52,302 per year to cover basic expenses.