Is Raleigh or Chicago more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Chicago.
3
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Chicago wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
467,665
Population
2,742,119
$72,571✓
Median Income
-9.4%$65,781
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-16.6%$1,209✓
$400,000
Median Home Price
-30.6%$277,600✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
213 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
46"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
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
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Raleigh vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Chicago?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Chicago?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Chicago?
Raleigh. Chicago. 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.