Raleigh, NC vs Brandon, FL: 110 vs 108

$1,468/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,691/mo ↑ 15%

$82,424/yr ↑ 7%

Median Income

$77,068/yr ↓ 6%

$377,800 ↑ 29%

Home Value

$293,800 ↓ 22%

$1,487/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,546/mo ↑ 4%

470,763

Population

116,365

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Brandon, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 108 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $223/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $2,676/year.

Median household income is $5,356/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $293,800 in Brandon.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Brandon — common questions

Is Raleigh or Brandon cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Brandon is cheaper to live in with an index of 108 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Brandon?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Brandon it's $1,691/month — a difference of $223/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Brandon?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $77,068 in Brandon. Median household income is $5,356/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Florida?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Brandon?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Brandon has a cost index of 108 with rent of $1,691/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Brandon, FL (2026)

Raleigh

Brandon

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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