Cost of living in Kinston
Kinston, located in North Carolina, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. Understanding the cost of living in Kinston is crucial for anyone considering moving to or residing in this city.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of various expenses, including dining, groceries, transportation, housing, and utilities, to help you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $25 on average, with a range between $15 and $35.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $70, with prices ranging from $50 to $100.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $10, with a range between $9.8 and $14.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $6, imported beer $5.5 to $10, cappuccino $4 to $6, and Coke/Pepsi $2 to $3.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.68 and $1.32 per liter, averaging $0.91.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $3.45 and $4.99, with an average price of $4.3.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.7 to $3.78, averaging $3.09.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $2.2 to $5.51 per kg, while oranges range from $3.28 to $6.61 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $2.2 and $3.31 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.75 to $2 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.77 and $0.9 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $2, with a cost of $1.55 to $3.11 per km and $18 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child - The cost for private preschool is between $800 and $1000 monthly, averaging $900.
- International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child - Yearly tuition for international primary school is $30,000.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $73.19 and $230, averaging $148.09.
- Internet - Internet services range from $50 to $130, with an average cost of $90.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for the United States are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in United States, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Kinston offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger cities, with moderate prices for dining and groceries.
Housing and utilities are reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for families and individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Transportation costs are low, particularly for gasoline, which is beneficial for those who commute by car.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kinston, NC, provides a cost-effective living environment with a mix of affordable dining, grocery, and transportation options.
The city's reasonable housing and utility costs further enhance its appeal, making it a suitable choice for those looking to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the high expenses associated with larger urban areas.