Is Nashville or Raleigh more affordable?
Nashville has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Nashville is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Nashville, TN vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Nashville and Raleigh.
3
Nashville wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
TN
Nashville
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
682,646
Population
467,665
$65,565
Median Income
+10.7%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+16.0%$1,450
$291,400✓
Median Home Price
+37.3%$400,000
23%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
None✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
57.52°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
53.73°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Nashville, TN
Nashville is a city in Tennessee with a population of 682,646.
Read full Nashville guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Nashville vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Nashville or Raleigh?
Tennessee has no state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Nashville wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Nashville and Raleigh?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Nashville: 57.52°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Nashville or Raleigh?
Nashville. 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.