Knightdale, NC vs. Durham, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Knightdale or Durham? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life expenses of living in Knightdale vs Durham in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare between Knightdale and Durham:
| Housing Type | Knightdale | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Rent) | $1,350 | $1,600 |
| 3BR House (Mortgage) | $1,900 | $2,300 |
🏆 Winner: Knightdale. Housing costs are about 15-20% lower in Knightdale compared to Durham. A household moving from Durham to Knightdale might save $400/month on housing alone.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another key monthly expense. In Knightdale, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Costs may be 10-15% higher in summer to run the AC.
Durham utility bills are fairly similar, averaging $190/month. Both cities offer “time of use” plans to save by using power during off-peak hours.
🏆 Winner: Knightdale, but it’s close. Utility costs are comparable between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, expect to spend around $800-1000/month on groceries in Knightdale. Eating out averages $12-15 per meal per person at casual restaurants.
Durham grocery and restaurant prices are about 5% higher across the board. Buying in bulk or choosing budget-friendly stores can help trim costs in either city.
🏆 Winner: Knightdale. While not a huge difference, Knightdale comes out slightly ahead for affordability of everyday goods and dining out.
Taxes and Fees
Knightdale’s property tax rate is 0.42%, meaning $4,200 in annual taxes on a $300,000 home. Most neighborhoods have HOA fees ranging from $30-100/month.
Durham’s property taxes are higher at 0.53%, or $5,300/year on a $300K home. City service fees and HOAs are comparable to Knightdale.
🏆 Winner: Knightdale. Lower property tax rates give Knightdale the advantage, especially for homeowners.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Knightdale | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,350 – $1,900 | $1,600 – $2,300 |
| Utilities | $180 | $190 |
| Groceries | $800 – $1,000 | $840 – $1,050 |
| Transportation | $60 | $50 |
| Taxes | 0.42% | 0.53% |
| Misc | $200 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,590 – $3,340 | $2,930 – $3,840 |
Lifestyle Fit
Knightdale offers a quieter suburban feel with more space for the money. Most errands require a car. Summers are 3-5°F cooler than Durham on average.
Durham provides an urban-suburban mix with walkable areas and shorter commutes. Public transportation is more accessible in Durham. Traffic and noise levels are higher than Knightdale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Knightdale more affordable than Durham?
Yes, Knightdale is generally 10-15% cheaper than Durham, especially for housing.
Which city has lower rent?
Knightdale has lower rent, with 2BR apartments averaging $1,350/month vs $1,600/month in Durham.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Knightdale has lower home prices and property taxes, making it more affordable for buyers. A typical mortgage payment on a 3BR house is $1,900/month in Knightdale compared to $2,300/month in Durham.
Conclusion
While both cities offer a good quality of life, Knightdale comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. Families looking for affordable housing and a suburban lifestyle will get more for their money in Knightdale. Young professionals who prefer a walkable urban feel and don’t mind paying a bit more may prefer Durham.
Of course, the right choice depends on your specific budget, preferences and needs. Be sure to check out our other cost of living breakdowns for NC cities like Knightdale, Knightdale, and moving tips to help with your decision and relocation planning.