Houston, TX vs Raleigh, NC: 88 vs 110

$1,313/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,468/mo ↑ 12%

$62,894/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$82,424/yr ↑ 31%

$253,400 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$377,800 ↑ 49%

$1,316/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,487/mo ↑ 13%

2,300,419

Population

470,763

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Raleigh, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 110 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $155/month cheaper in Houston, saving renters about $1,860/year.

Median household income is $19,530/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $377,800 in Raleigh.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Houston residents a significant tax advantage over North Carolina's 4.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Raleigh — common questions

Is Houston or Raleigh cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Houston is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Houston and Raleigh?

Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Raleigh it's $1,468/month — a difference of $155/month.

Which city has higher income, Houston or Raleigh?

Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $82,424 in Raleigh. Median household income is $19,530/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between Texas and North Carolina?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Houston or Raleigh?

It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/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: Houston, TX vs Raleigh, NC (2026)

Houston

Raleigh

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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