Is Raleigh or Houston more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Houston is $1,250/month. Houston is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Houston, TX
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Houston.
2
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Houston wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
TX
Houston
Overview
467,665
Population
2,304,580
$72,571✓
Median Income
-27.9%$52,338
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-13.8%$1,250✓
$400,000
Median Home Price
-33.8%$265,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.25%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
77°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
57°F
213 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
204 days
46"
Annual Rainfall
50"
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
Houston, TX
Houston is a city in Texas with a population of 2,304,580.
Read full Houston guide →Raleigh vs Houston — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Houston?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Texas has no state income tax. Houston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Houston?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Houston gets 204 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Houston: 77°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Houston?
Raleigh. Houston. 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.