Is Columbus or Raleigh more affordable?
Columbus has a median rent of $1,050/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Columbus is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Columbus, OH vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Columbus and Raleigh.
3
Columbus wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
OH
Columbus
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
905,748
Population
467,665
$53,373
Median Income
+36.0%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,050✓
Median Rent / mo
+38.1%$1,450
$240,000✓
Median Home Price
+66.7%$400,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.99%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
7.50%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
178 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
39"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Columbus, OH
Columbus is a city in Ohio with a population of 905,748.
Read full Columbus guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Columbus vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Columbus or Raleigh?
Ohio has a 3.99% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Columbus wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Columbus and Raleigh?
Columbus gets 178 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Columbus: 62°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Columbus or Raleigh?
Columbus. 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.