Houston vs Raleigh
Cost of Living Comparison
Raleigh is 16% cheaper than Houston
Houston, TX
ExpensiveRaleigh, NC
AverageDetailed Comparison
| Category | Houston | Raleigh | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living Index | 130 | 114 | +16% |
| 1BR Rent (Monthly) | $2,100 | $1,529 | +$571 |
| State Income Tax | None | 5.3% | -5.3% |
| Population | 2,304,580 | 467,665 | — |
💰 Salary Equivalent Calculator
How much would you need to earn to maintain the same lifestyle?
$100,000 in
Houston
Equivalent to
$87,692 in Raleigh
Based on cost of living index comparison. Use our full calculator for personalized results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Houston or Raleigh cheaper to live in?▼
Raleigh is 16% cheaper to live in than Houston. The cost of living index in Raleigh is 114, compared to 130 in Houston. This means everyday expenses like groceries, transportation, and utilities cost less in Raleigh.
What is the rent difference between Houston and Raleigh?▼
A 1-bedroom apartment in Houston costs $2,100/month on average, while in Raleigh it costs $1,529/month. That's a difference of $571/month, or $6,852/year.
Which city has lower taxes?▼
Houston has lower state income taxes.Houston has a zero state income tax rate, while Raleigh has a 5.3% rate. States with no income tax can save you thousands per year!
What salary do I need in Raleigh to match my lifestyle in Houston?▼
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need to earn approximately $87,692 in Raleighto match a $100,000 salary in Houston. Use our full calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your actual salary and lifestyle preferences.
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