A+
5%
Overall NAT. AVG.
2%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
12%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index High Point North Carolina National
Cost of living9596100
Groceries98100100
Health care10299100
Housing8888100
Transportation9899100
Utilities9899100
Lifestyle & Entertainment97100100
Household Items99100100
Education & Childcare96100100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in High Point, NC

Understanding the cost of living in High Point can help future residents assess whether their current financial situation aligns with the expenses they will encounter. It enables them to plan for potential changes in their budget and lifestyle. The High Point cost of living index is 95, which is 5% lower than the national average. The cost of living index is calculated by taking into account multiple categories, which encompass both the cost of everyday expenditures and larger expenses as well.

Everyday expenditures like food, housing, lifestyle expenses, transportation and health care in High Point are priced in a manner consistent with other areas. This means that residents of High Point can anticipate their daily expenses remaining reasonably similar to those in an average city, thereby supporting a manageable cost of living.

Is High Point Affordable?

Wondering if High Point is affordable? It's a question that often comes up when you're thinking about a new city since affordability can really shape your decisions. The cost of living index (covered earlier), housing expenses and income levels all play a part in the affordability equation. In High Point, for example, the median home price is 13.1% lower than what folks pay nationally, and monthly rent is 9.1% lower than the usual rates. Plus, income levels matter too, with High Point boasting a median household income of $72,771, which is 10.5% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in High Point?

Healthcare: Healthcare expenditures and insurance premium rates can vary significantly, contingent upon the particular city or state. Factors such as the accessibility of healthcare facilities, out-of-pocket expenses for doctor's appointments, dental care charges, prescription medication costs, and expenses related to specialized medical care can all have an impact on the overall cost of living. In High Point, healthcare costs are 2% higher than the national average.

Transportation: When public transportation options are limited or non-existent, residents frequently resort to vehicle ownership, which can significantly contribute to the overall cost of living. Monthly financial obligations encompass fuel, insurance, regular maintenance and potentially lease or financing expenses. In High Point, the transportation index is 1.8% lower than the national average.

Utilities: Much like any other costs, utility expenses can exhibit considerable variations, influenced by factors such as climate, available energy sources, geographic location and state regulations. The costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can vary significantly depending on the city or state in question. In High Point, the utilities index stands at 1.6% lower than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The cost of living estimates displayed for High Point are modeled using a U.S. average baseline of 100, helping provide a useful comparison of local living expenses. Housing calculations include U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are AI-assisted estimates based on regional cost patterns, climate, transportation, and everyday spending expectations. These values are intended for directional comparisons across cities.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in High Point is 1% lower than the North Carolina average
  • The cost of living in High Point is 5% lower than the national average
  • High Point housing is 12% lower than the national average
  • North Carolina general sales tax is 7% lower than the national average
  • North Carolina state income tax is 83% higher than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around High Point

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Compare High Point, NC Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$105,347$8,779$2,458$3,161
      Renters$47,795$3,983$1,115$1,434
      A good indicator of the general affordability of housing in High Point, NC, is the percentage of monthly income that should be spent on housing expenses, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Generally speaking, no more than 28 percent of your total gross income should be spent on your housing expenses and not more than 36 percent of your gross income on total expenses, including debts. In High Point, the median monthly income is $105,347 for those who own their own homes. Under the standard rule, that income level would allow for $2,458 to be budgeted for housing expenses each month, at the most. Renters, on the other hand, earn about $47,795, per the median income in the area. That would allow for renters to spend up to $1,115 on monthly rental expenses.

      North Carolina Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      North Carolina 4.75% 7.5%

      North Carolina Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      North Carolina 4.75% 4.75%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Lexington, NC19,3868911.3%
      Thomasville, NC27,8058911.0%
      Randleman, NC4,2759010.2%
      Welcome, NC3,125918.9%
      Archdale, NC12,179928.4%
      High Point, NC116,418954.8%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Temecula, CA116,25515555.4%
      El Monte, CA116,59015151.1%
      Spring Hill, FL116,6931010.6%
      Palm Bay, FL116,9371055.3%
      Clovis, CA117,04613232.3%
      High Point, NC116,418954.8%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.