Is Indianapolis or Raleigh more affordable?
Indianapolis has a median rent of $1,000/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Indianapolis is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Indianapolis, IN vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Indianapolis and Raleigh.
3
Indianapolis wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
IN
Indianapolis
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
887,642
Population
467,665
$51,225
Median Income
+41.7%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,000✓
Median Rent / mo
+45.0%$1,450
$225,000✓
Median Home Price
+77.8%$400,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
3.15%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
7.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
62°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
42°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
186 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
42"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Indianapolis, IN
Indianapolis is a city in Indiana with a population of 887,642.
Read full Indianapolis guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Indianapolis vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Indianapolis or Raleigh?
Indiana has a 3.15% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Indianapolis wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Indianapolis and Raleigh?
Indianapolis gets 186 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Indianapolis: 62°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Indianapolis or Raleigh?
Indianapolis. 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.