Baltimore, MD vs Raleigh, NC: 84 vs 110

$1,290/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$1,468/mo ↑ 14%

$59,623/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$82,424/yr ↑ 38%

$219,300 ↓ 42%

Home Value

$377,800 ↑ 72%

$1,333/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,487/mo ↑ 12%

577,193

Population

470,763

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Baltimore, MD and Raleigh, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 84 and 110 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $178/month cheaper in Baltimore, saving renters about $2,136/year.

Median household income is $22,801/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Baltimore is $219,300 compared to $377,800 in Raleigh.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Raleigh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baltimore vs Raleigh — common questions

Is Baltimore or Raleigh cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Baltimore is cheaper to live in with an index of 84 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Baltimore and Raleigh?

Median rent in Baltimore is $1,290/month and in Raleigh it's $1,468/month — a difference of $178/month.

Which city has higher income, Baltimore or Raleigh?

Median household income is $59,623 in Baltimore and $82,424 in Raleigh. Median household income is $22,801/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between Maryland and North Carolina?

Maryland has 5.75% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.07% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Baltimore or Raleigh?

It depends on your priorities. Baltimore has a cost index of 84 with median rent of $1,290/mo, while Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with rent of $1,468/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Baltimore, MD vs Raleigh, NC (2026)

Baltimore

Raleigh

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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