Is Raleigh or Salt Lake City more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Salt Lake City is $1,450/month. Both cities have similar rent costs.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Salt Lake City, UT
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Salt Lake City.
2
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Salt Lake City wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
UT
Salt Lake City
Overview
467,665
Population
199,723
$72,571✓
Median Income
-20.1%$58,000
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-0.0%$1,450
$400,000✓
Median Home Price
+20.0%$480,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
30%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
4.65%✓
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
65°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
41°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
222 days✓
46"
Annual Rainfall
17"
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
Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City is a city in Utah with a population of 199,723.
Read full Salt Lake City guide →Raleigh vs Salt Lake City — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Salt Lake City?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Utah has a 4.65% state income tax. Salt Lake City wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Salt Lake City?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Salt Lake City gets 222 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Salt Lake City: 65°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Salt Lake City?
Raleigh. Salt Lake City. 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.