Is Baltimore or Raleigh more affordable?
Baltimore has a median rent of $1,400/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Baltimore is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Baltimore, MD vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Baltimore and Raleigh.
2
Baltimore wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Raleigh wins
MD
Baltimore
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
576,498
Population
467,665
$52,164
Median Income
+39.1%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,400✓
Median Rent / mo
+3.6%$1,450
$220,000✓
Median Home Price
+81.8%$400,000
32%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
4.75%✓
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
64°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
45°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
210 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
43"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Baltimore, MD
Baltimore is a city in Maryland with a population of 576,498.
Read full Baltimore guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Baltimore vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Baltimore or Raleigh?
Maryland has a 5.75% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Baltimore and Raleigh?
Baltimore gets 210 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Baltimore: 64°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Baltimore or Raleigh?
Baltimore. Raleigh. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.