A complete breakdown of housing costs, utilities, taxes, groceries, and more — everything you need to know about the cost of living in Raleigh, NC before you move.
Understanding the cost of living in Raleigh, NC is essential for making a smart move. As the state capital and cornerstone of the Research Triangle, Raleigh delivers big-city opportunity with mid-market affordability.
~5-8% above national average, driven almost entirely by housing. Everyday expenses (groceries, utilities, transportation) fall at or below national norms. Dramatically more affordable than DC, NY, Boston, or California.
ITB/Five Points/Hayes Barton: $600K-$900K+. North Raleigh/Wakefield: $400K-$700K. SE Raleigh/outer areas: $325K-$500K. Downtown condos/townhomes: $250K-$400K.
1BR: $1,400-$1,800. 2BR: $1,600-$2,200. 3BR house: $2,000-$2,500+.
~$0.72 per $100 assessed value. $500K home = ~$3,600/year. Two to four times lower than NJ, CT, or NY suburbs.
Family of four: $900-$1,200/month. Harris Teeter, Wegmans, Trader Joe's, H Mart. State Farmers Market — one of the largest in the Southeast.
Car-dependent. Gas $3.00-$3.50. Insurance $1,400-$1,800/year. RTP commute: 15-25 min. GoRaleigh bus service expanding.
WakeMed (flagship in Raleigh), UNC REX, Duke Health (~25 min). Family insurance: $500-$700/mo.
vs Durham: Durham lower median prices but less consistent schools. vs Cary: Cary 10-20% higher but more suburban polish. vs Charlotte: Similar overall; Raleigh has RTP advantage. vs Apex/Holly Springs: Slightly lower prices, smaller-town feel.
Edwards Real Estate Group — visit movemetoraleighnc.com to start your search.