Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Greensboro, NC

Last Updated: January 6, 2026By Tags:
Greensboro, NC

Salary And Cost Of Living In Greensboro NC

Greensboro, North Carolina has emerged as a popular destination for professionals, families, and retirees seeking a balance between earnings and affordability. As part of the Piedmont Triad region, Greensboro offers a strong employment base, relatively low housing costs, and a moderate cost of living compared with many other U.S. cities. In what follows, this guide explores the average salary in Greensboro, NC, the overall cost of living, home values and rents, as well as best neighborhoods and schools, helping you evaluate whether Greensboro is the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.

Average Salary In Greensboro NC

The average salary in Greensboro, NC is competitive for a mid-sized Southern city, especially when adjusted for the area’s relatively low cost of living. While exact earnings depend on industry, experience, and education, workers generally find that their income stretches further here than in many coastal or major metropolitan markets.

Below is a high-level overview of salary benchmarks in Greensboro, North Carolina:

Income Metric (Greensboro, NC) Estimated Annual Amount (Before Taxes)
Median Household Income $53,000 – $58,000
Median Individual Income $32,000 – $36,000
Typical Entry-Level Professional Salary $40,000 – $50,000
Experienced Professional Salary (5+ Years) $60,000 – $85,000
High-Demand Specialized Roles (IT, Healthcare, Engineering) $80,000 – $110,000+

Major employment sectors in Greensboro, NC include manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, education, and financial services. Companies benefit from regional transportation assets, such as the Piedmont Triad International Airport, and proximity to other North Carolina markets including Winston-Salem and High Point. Because the salary range is closely aligned with the local cost structure, many residents find that Greensboro offers strong value for every dollar earned.

Cost Of Living In Greensboro NC

The cost of living in Greensboro, North Carolina is one of its strongest selling points. Compared with the U.S. national average, Greensboro’s overall cost of living typically runs below 100 on most cost-of-living indices, indicating that housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare are generally more affordable than in many larger cities.

Here is a snapshot of the estimated cost of living index for Greensboro, NC (where 100 represents the U.S. national average):

Cost Category Greensboro, NC Index Description
Overall Cost Of Living 88 – 92 Generally below the U.S. average, offering strong affordability.
Housing 75 – 85 Significantly more affordable housing than many major metros.
Groceries 95 – 100 Food prices near the national average.
Transportation 90 – 95 Lower than large cities; many residents own cars.
Healthcare 95 – 100 Competitive medical costs with multiple hospital systems.
Utilities 95 – 105 Seasonal variability due to summer cooling and winter heating.

For individuals and families comparing locations across North Carolina, Greensboro stands out as a city where day-to-day expenses are manageable, while still enjoying urban amenities such as cultural institutions, higher education, and robust healthcare networks. When evaluating job offers, it is important to consider how the slightly lower salary ranges in Greensboro, NC are more than offset by overall lower living costs.

Average Home Values And Rents In Greensboro NC

Housing affordability is a cornerstone of quality of life in Greensboro, North Carolina. Whether you plan to buy a home or rent an apartment, you will generally find that prices compare favorably with state and national averages.

The following chart summarizes typical home prices and rents in Greensboro, NC:

Housing Metric (Greensboro, NC) Typical Range
Median Home Value (All Properties) $230,000 – $260,000
Starter Home / Entry-Level (Smaller SFH or Townhome) $180,000 – $230,000
Move-Up Home (3–4 Bedrooms In Established Neighborhood) $260,000 – $350,000
High-End Home / Upscale Neighborhoods $450,000 – $800,000+
Average Rent – Studio / 1 Bedroom Apartment $900 – $1,200 per month
Average Rent – 2 Bedroom Apartment $1,100 – $1,400 per month
Average Rent – 3 Bedroom Home Or Townhome $1,400 – $1,900 per month

Housing demand in Greensboro, NC has increased in recent years, especially among remote workers and families relocating from larger, higher-cost markets. Nevertheless, home ownership remains accessible for many first-time buyers, particularly when compared to other growing metropolitan areas in the Southeast. Lower property taxes and a variety of housing styles—from historic homes to new developments—offer options for diverse budgets and preferences.

Best Neighborhoods In Greensboro NC

Choosing the right neighborhood in Greensboro, North Carolina is essential for maximizing both lifestyle and value. The city features a mix of historic districts, family-friendly suburbs, and more urban, walkable areas near downtown. Below is an overview of some of the best-known neighborhoods in Greensboro, NC, along with their general characteristics.

Neighborhood Key Features Typical Home Price Range
Fisher Park Historic homes, tree-lined streets, close to Downtown Greensboro, NC; popular with professionals. $350,000 – $650,000+
Irving Park Upscale area near Greensboro Country Club; large lots, luxury homes, and established feel. $500,000 – $900,000+
Friendly Center / Friendly Lakes Area Convenient access to shopping and dining; mix of older and newer homes; very central. $280,000 – $450,000+
Lindley Park Charming bungalows, parks, and local eateries; strong community spirit and walkability. $250,000 – $400,000+
Adams Farm Planned community in southwest Greensboro, NC with walking trails and lakes; popular with families. $220,000 – $350,000+
Northwest Greensboro / Summerfield (Nearby) Suburban and semi-rural feel; newer construction, larger lots, and easy highway access. $300,000 – $550,000+

As you explore neighborhoods in Greensboro, NC, consider proximity to employment centers, preferred schools, and lifestyle amenities. Walkable in-town neighborhoods attract young professionals and downsizers, while suburban and semi-rural areas northwest and southwest of the city appeal to those wanting more space and a quieter environment.

Schools And Education In Greensboro NC

Education is a key consideration when evaluating the salary and cost of living equation in Greensboro, North Carolina. The city is served primarily by Guilford County Schools, one of the largest public school districts in the state. In addition, Greensboro hosts multiple private and charter schools, as well as several colleges and universities.

Below is a high-level overview of the school landscape in Greensboro, NC:

Education Category Highlights In Greensboro, NC
Public K–12 Schools Guilford County Schools offers magnet, STEM, and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs; school quality varies by attendance zone.
Magnet & Specialized Programs Options in arts, science and technology, language immersion, and early college high schools, providing advanced opportunities for motivated students.
Private & Charter Schools A range of religious, independent, and charter schools, giving families alternatives to traditional public schools.
Higher Education Home to the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), North Carolina A&T State University, Guilford College, Greensboro College, and others.
Adult Education & Workforce Training Local community colleges and workforce programs support career changes and skill upgrades for residents.

Because school quality can vary by neighborhood, families moving to Greensboro, NC often research school performance data, parent reviews, and program offerings in detail. Proximity to strong public or magnet schools can influence both housing decisions and long-term budget planning, especially when weighing private school tuition versus living in a higher-priced but better-zoned neighborhood.

Living Well On Your Salary In Greensboro NC

When taken together, salaries, the cost of living, housing, neighborhoods, and schools create a comprehensive picture of life in Greensboro, North Carolina. While individual experiences will vary, most residents find that their income buys more space, comfort, and opportunity here than in many similarly sized or larger cities.

By evaluating average salaries in Greensboro, NC against realistic monthly expenses for housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and education, newcomers can craft a financial plan that supports their goals. With thoughtful neighborhood selection and an understanding of local school options, Greensboro offers a compelling blend of affordability, career opportunity, and quality of life for individuals, couples, and families alike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Greensboro, NC

What is the cost of living like in Greensboro, NC?

Greensboro generally offers a lower cost of living compared with many major U.S. cities. Housing prices and rents are relatively affordable, and residents often find they can get more space for their money than in larger metropolitan areas. Everyday expenses such as groceries, transportation, and utilities tend to be moderate, making Greensboro attractive for young professionals, families, and retirees looking for value without sacrificing urban amenities.

What are the job opportunities like in Greensboro?

Greensboro has a diverse job market with strengths in education, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and financial services. Major employers include universities and colleges, healthcare systems, and regional corporate offices. The city is part of the larger Piedmont Triad region, which broadens employment options across nearby cities such as Winston-Salem and High Point. While it may not have the volume of openings found in larger hubs, Greensboro offers steady opportunities and a reasonable commute for most workers.

How is the climate and weather in Greensboro?

Greensboro has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with some humidity, while winters are generally mild with occasional light snowfall or ice. Spring and fall are often considered the most pleasant seasons, featuring comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. Severe weather is relatively infrequent, though residents can experience thunderstorms and occasional remnants of coastal systems during hurricane season.

What is there to do for recreation and culture in Greensboro?

Greensboro offers a range of recreational and cultural activities. The city maintains numerous parks, greenways, and lakes that support walking, biking, and water activities. Cultural attractions include museums such as the Greensboro Science Center and the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, as well as a growing arts scene with theaters, galleries, and live music venues. Sporting events, festivals, and community gatherings are common throughout the year, contributing to Greensboro’s active and community-oriented atmosphere.

Is Greensboro a good place for families and education?

Greensboro is often considered family-friendly, with a variety of neighborhoods, parks, and community programs geared toward children and teens. The city is served by Guilford County Schools, one of the largest public school systems in North Carolina, offering traditional, magnet, and specialized programs. Higher education is a significant part of the community, with institutions such as the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, North Carolina A&T State University, and Guilford College providing educational opportunities, cultural events, and partnerships that benefit residents of all ages.

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