Raleigh, NC vs Kent, WA: 110 vs 145

$1,468/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 25%

$82,424/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$90,416/yr ↑ 10%

$377,800 ↓ 30%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 42%

$1,487/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 29%

470,763

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $365/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $4,380/year.

Median household income is $7,992/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Kent — common questions

Is Raleigh or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Kent?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $365/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Kent?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $7,992/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Washington?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Kent, WA (2026)

Raleigh

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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