Raleigh, NC vs Jersey City, NJ: 110 vs 148

$1,468/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,902/mo ↑ 30%

$82,424/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$94,813/yr ↑ 15%

$377,800 ↓ 29%

Home Value

$534,500 ↑ 41%

$1,487/mo ↓ 26%

Owner Costs

$2,006/mo ↑ 35%

470,763

Population

289,691

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Jersey City, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 148 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $434/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $5,208/year.

Median household income is $12,389/year higher in Jersey City. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $534,500 in Jersey City.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Jersey City — common questions

Is Raleigh or Jersey City cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 148 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Jersey City?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Jersey City it's $1,902/month — a difference of $434/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Jersey City?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $94,813 in Jersey City. Median household income is $12,389/year higher in Jersey City.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and New Jersey?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Jersey City?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Jersey City has a cost index of 148 with rent of $1,902/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Jersey City, NJ (2026)

Raleigh

Jersey City

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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