Is Houston or Raleigh more affordable?
Houston has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Houston, TX vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Houston and Raleigh.
3
Houston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
TX
Houston
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
2,304,580
Population
467,665
$52,338
Median Income
+38.7%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+16.0%$1,450
$265,000✓
Median Home Price
+50.9%$400,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
8.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
77°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
57°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
204 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
50"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Houston vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Houston or Raleigh?
Texas has no state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Houston and Raleigh?
Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Houston: 77°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Houston or Raleigh?
Houston. 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.