Raleigh, NC vs Downey, CA: 110 vs 169

$1,468/mo ↓ 22%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 29%

$82,424/yr ↓ 6%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 6%

$377,800 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 93%

$1,487/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 34%

470,763

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $424/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $5,088/year.

Median household income is $4,976/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Downey — common questions

Is Raleigh or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Downey?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $424/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Downey?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $4,976/year higher in Downey.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and California?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Downey, CA (2026)

Raleigh

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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