One amazing part about moving back to the South is the cheap cost of living. According to a cost of living calculator, I could take a 27% pay decrease and still maintain my standard of living I have now. Also, the average home in the DC metro area costs $640,000 whereas the average home in the Raleigh-Durham area costs $270,000. That is a huge difference!
*Here’s how my bills will differ:
Other perks of the new apartment include:
- Dishwasher
- Washer
- Dryer
- Disposal
- Central AC
- Safer
I will finally have a washer/dryer and be able to clean my dishes like a normal person! Moving to NC will save me $342.50 per month on bills. However, I am taking a pay decrease for my new job, so my budget will most likely stay the same. Hooray for inexpensive housing!
The difference in cost of living is the biggest reason why a lot of folks from the Northeast move down to NC (and SC & Florida). Best of luck with the move!
.-= Rainy-Day Saver´s last blog ..Saving Money on My Commute =-.
Totally with you! I was not expecting rent in Raleigh to be so cheap!
That reason alone is the reason why I stayed in Raleigh after I graduated college. I’m originally From Detroit but clearly the cost of living is higher and there aren’t any jobs in Michigan either so the logical choice was to stay here.
Depends where in Raleigh you plan to live. I’ve lived here since 1984 some places in Cary rival the prices anywhere up north. I love love love Raleigh, it is, after all, where Barney goes to partay!!!!
Where are you living in DC that is $660 a month?? Please share! I am looking for a new place.
.-= Olive´s last blog ..Happiness List #1 =-.
@Olive: Check your email : )
Cost of living in places that are cheaper is such a huge motivator. I love big cities like DC, but it’s so hard to justify spending so much on EVERYTHING. I hope the move goes well!
.-= Fig´s last blog ..Back And Ready To Go! =-.
Moving in a little less developed area is sometimes wonderful as you can get a desired home in a budget and yet live happily. The differences in rates are huge and can save a lot that saved amount can be used for other purposes too.