Is Raleigh or Richmond more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Richmond is $1,250/month. Richmond is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Richmond, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Richmond.
3
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Richmond wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
VA
Richmond
Overview
467,665
Population
226,610
$72,571✓
Median Income
-28.3%$52,000
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-13.8%$1,250✓
$400,000
Median Home Price
-27.5%$290,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
47°F
213 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
205 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
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Raleigh vs Richmond — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Richmond?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Richmond?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Richmond?
Raleigh. Richmond. 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.