Is Charlotte or Raleigh more affordable?
Charlotte has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Charlotte, NC vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Charlotte and Raleigh.
1
Charlotte wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Raleigh wins
NC
Charlotte
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
897,720
Population
467,665
$66,356
Median Income
+9.4%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,450
$380,000✓
Median Home Price
+5.3%$400,000
26%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
4.75%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
44"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte is a city in North Carolina with a population of 897,720.
Read full Charlotte guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Charlotte vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Charlotte or Raleigh?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Charlotte and Raleigh?
Charlotte gets 213 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Charlotte: 71°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Charlotte or Raleigh?
Charlotte. 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.