Is Raleigh or Seattle more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Seattle is $1,801/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Seattle, WA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Seattle.
3
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Seattle wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
WA
Seattle
Overview
467,665
Population
726,054
$72,571
Median Income
+45.2%$105,391✓
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+24.2%$1,801
$400,000✓
Median Home Price
+91.9%$767,500
24%
Rent-to-Income %
21%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
49.82°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
46.72°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
Seattle, WA
Seattle is a city in Washington with a population of 726,054.
Read full Seattle guide →Raleigh vs Seattle — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Seattle?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Washington has no state income tax. Seattle wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Seattle?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Seattle: 49.82°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Seattle?
Raleigh. Seattle. 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.