Raleigh, NC vs Elk Grove, CA: 110 vs 168

$1,468/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$2,180/mo ↑ 49%

$82,424/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$122,229/yr ↑ 48%

$377,800 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$603,400 ↑ 60%

$1,487/mo ↓ 33%

Owner Costs

$2,227/mo ↑ 50%

470,763

Population

177,221

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Elk Grove, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 168 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $712/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $8,544/year.

Median household income is $39,805/year higher in Elk Grove. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $603,400 in Elk Grove.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Elk Grove — common questions

Is Raleigh or Elk Grove cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 168 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Elk Grove?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Elk Grove it's $2,180/month — a difference of $712/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Elk Grove?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $122,229 in Elk Grove. Median household income is $39,805/year higher in Elk Grove.

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 Elk Grove?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Elk Grove has a cost index of 168 with rent of $2,180/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Raleigh

Elk Grove

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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