Is Raleigh or San Francisco more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while San Francisco is $2,130/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs San Francisco, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and San Francisco.
4
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
San Francisco wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
CA
San Francisco
Overview
467,665
Population
865,933
$72,571
Median Income
+73.9%$126,187✓
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+46.9%$2,130
$400,000✓
Median Home Price
+198.6%$1,194,500
24%
Rent-to-Income %
20%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
13.30%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
55.62°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
48.76°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
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a city in California with a population of 865,933.
Read full San Francisco guide →Raleigh vs San Francisco — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or San Francisco?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. California has a 13.30% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and San Francisco?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in San Francisco: 55.62°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or San Francisco?
Raleigh. San Francisco. 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.