Raleigh, NC cost of living
NC · BLS RPP 99.2
Estimated — not yet source-verified.Estimated — not yet source-verified against official BLS/HUD figures. This page is not indexed. Treat the RPP and FMR values as rough proxies and verify with the BLS or HUD datasets directly before relying on them.
Overall RPP
99.2
US = 100
Housing RPP
106.4
Housing component
Goods RPP
97.9
Goods component
2-BR Rent (HUD)
$1,480/mo
FY2024 FMR
What salary do you need in Raleigh, NC?
Equivalent salary to maintain the same purchasing power as in a US-average city (RPP 100).
| In US-average city | You need in Raleigh, NC | Formula |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 | $49,600 | $50,000 x (99.2/100) |
| $75,000 | $74,400 | $75,000 x (99.2/100) |
| $100,000 | $99,200 | $100,000 x (99.2/100) |
| $125,000 | $124,000 | $125,000 x (99.2/100) |
| $150,000 | $148,800 | $150,000 x (99.2/100) |
| $200,000 | $198,400 | $200,000 x (99.2/100) |
This tool provides estimates only. Equivalent-salary figures are derived from BLS Regional Price Parities (RPP) and HUD Fair Market Rents — they are averages, not guarantees. Actual cost of living varies by neighborhood, lifestyle, and individual circumstances. Not financial advice.
State income tax note
North Carolina flat income tax 4.5%.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the cost of living in Raleigh, NC?
- Raleigh, NC has a BLS Regional Price Parity of 99.2 (US average = 100). It is 0.8% less expensive than the national average.
- What salary do I need to live in Raleigh, NC?
- If you earn $100,000 in a US-average city (RPP 100), you would need approximately $99,200 in Raleigh, NC to maintain the same purchasing power.
- What is the average rent in Raleigh, NC?
- The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Raleigh, NC is approximately $1,480 per month as of FY2024.
Compare with other cities
Buying a home in Raleigh, NC? See closing costs at TallyClose.