Cost of Living in North Carolina in 2025

North Carolina Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

Housing Costs: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in North Carolina has gradually increased, reaching $1,100 in 2025.
Transportation Expenses: Public transit costs are affordable, with a one-way fare at $1.00 and monthly passes around $50, while fuel costs average $3.28 per gallon.
Healthcare Costs: Monthly premiums for employer-sponsored health insurance average about $153.92, with Silver plans costing around $600.
Income Levels: The median household income in North Carolina is projected to reach $72,000 in 2025, supporting moderate living costs.

North Carolina offers a balanced cost of living with affordable housing and reasonable transportation expenses.

This article provides an extensive breakdown of expenses including housing, utilities, groceries, and more for 2025.

1. Housing Costs in North Carolina

Housing forms a major portion of living costs. Below is the historical average rent for a one-bedroom apartment:

2010: Approximately $700
2015: Around $850
2020: Approximately $1,000
2024: Reached $1,074
2025: Projected to be $1,100

These figures show steady rent increases reflecting growing demand and economic growth in North Carolina.

For hospitality businesses in the area, understanding hospitality real estate market trends can aid in strategic planning.

2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in North Carolina

For those looking to buy, the median home price has risen significantly:

2010: Median home price was approximately $150,000
2015: Increased to $200,000
2020: Around $250,000
2024: Reached $381,000
2025: Projected at $400,000

This rise highlights a competitive real estate market, making homeownership a valuable but costly prospect.

3. Transportation Expenses in North Carolina

North Carolina’s transportation costs include several components:

Public Transit: One-way fare averages $1.00 with monthly passes around $50.
Fuel Costs: The average price per gallon is about $3.28 in 2025.
Vehicle Maintenance: Annual average expenses are approximately $1,200.

These costs vary depending on frequency of use and vehicle type.

4. Utility Costs in North Carolina

Monthly utility expenses for a typical apartment include:

Electricity: Around $124.48
Internet Services: Approximately $60
Total Utilities Monthly: Estimated at $184.48

These are subject to usage patterns and provider rates.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in North Carolina

Grocery costs are moderate with monthly expenses estimated at $302.50 per person.

Dining options vary with casual meals around $15 and mid-range restaurant meals averaging $50.

For restaurant owners, strategies to hire restaurant staff effectively help meet growing demand.

6. Healthcare Costs in North Carolina

Healthcare expenses include insurance premiums with average monthly employer-sponsored plans costing $153.92 and individual Silver plans at $600.

These rates reflect typical coverage and regional healthcare costs.

7. Educational Expenses in North Carolina

Education-related costs vary by institution:

Public Schools: Funded by taxes and generally free at point of access.
Private Schools: Average tuition is approximately $10,000 per year.
Universities: In-state university tuition averages $9,028 annually.

Costs will differ depending on the school and program.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in North Carolina

Entertainment options contribute to quality of life and involve:

Movie Tickets: Averaging $12 each.
Gym Memberships: Around $40 monthly.
Dining Out: Meals at mid-range restaurants typically cost $50.

Annual expenses for entertainment and personal care amount to about $3,300 combined.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in North Carolina

The tax structure includes:

State Income Tax: Approximately 4.75%
Sales Tax: Total sales tax averages 4.75%
Property Tax: Around 0.80%

These taxes impact residents' overall budget and should be considered carefully.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in North Carolina

Childcare is a notable expense for families:

Daycare Services: Average monthly cost is roughly $1,155.
After-School Programs: About $500 monthly.
Extracurricular Activities: Estimated at $100 monthly.

These costs add significantly to the family budget.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in North Carolina

Monthly spending typically includes:

Clothing: Around $100
Personal Care Products and Services: Approximately $50

These expenses depend on individual preferences and needs.

12. Insurance Costs in North Carolina

Insurance contributes to the cost of living with:

Health Insurance: Average monthly premium of $600 for a Silver health plan.
Auto Insurance: Annual premiums average $909.80.
Homeowners Insurance: Around $1,200 annually.
Renters Insurance: Roughly $180 annually.

These rates are essential for financial security and compliance.

13. Miscellaneous Expenses in North Carolina

Additional costs include:

Entertainment: Approximately $2,000 annually.
Personal Care Services: Estimated at $600 annually.
Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Around $700 annually.

These expenses vary based on lifestyle choices.

14. Income and Salaries in North Carolina

Median household incomes have risen steadily:

2010: Approximately $45,000
2015: About $50,000
2020: Estimated $55,000
2023: Around $69,904
2025: Projected $72,000

Income growth supports increased living expenses but must be balanced carefully.

Those interested in hospitality careers might explore how to become restaurant managers or other key roles to capitalize on the growing income opportunities.

15. Comparison with National Averages

Comparing North Carolina to the national average reveals:

Overall Cost of Living: Approximately 5% lower than the national average.
Housing: About 10% less expensive.
Utilities: Roughly 5% cheaper.
Food: Around 3% lower.
Healthcare: About 4% less costly.
Transportation: Slightly less expensive by 2%.
Goods & Services: Approximately 3% less.

These differences make North Carolina an affordable option compared to many other states.

Hospitality employers aiming to attract talent might find useful insights in employer branding in restaurant job postings to leverage this affordability.

Our Methodology for North Carolina Cost of Living Figures

We collect data from reliable sources including government statistics, Numbeo, Zillow, and academic calculators to provide accurate, up-to-date cost of living figures.

When exact data is unavailable, well-informed estimations are made based on trends and comparable regions.

North Carolina Cost of Living: Conclusion

North Carolina offers a relatively affordable lifestyle with steadily rising housing costs balanced by moderate transportation, healthcare, and utility expenses.

The state’s lower-than-average overall costs combined with growing incomes make it attractive for residents and newcomers alike.

By understanding these factors and planning finances carefully, individuals and families can enjoy a good quality of life in North Carolina.

For those considering hospitality jobs, North Carolina's market conditions can offer meaningful opportunities. Exploring roles such as bartender job descriptions or server interview questions may help job seekers prepare for employment in this growing market.