Is Raleigh or Charlotte more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Charlotte is $1,450/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Charlotte, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Charlotte.
1
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Charlotte wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
NC
Charlotte
Overview
467,665
Population
897,720
$72,571✓
Median Income
-8.6%$66,356
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,450
$400,000
Median Home Price
-5.0%$380,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
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
46"
Annual Rainfall
44"
Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Who should choose
Charlotte, NC
Charlotte is a city in North Carolina with a population of 897,720.
Read full Charlotte guide →Raleigh vs Charlotte — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Charlotte?
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 Raleigh and Charlotte?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Charlotte gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Charlotte: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Charlotte?
Raleigh. Charlotte. 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.