Raleigh, NC vs Lakewood, CO: 110 vs 141

$1,468/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,746/mo ↑ 19%

$82,424/yr ↓ 4%

Median Income

$85,789/yr ↑ 4%

$377,800 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$548,200 ↑ 45%

$1,487/mo ↓ 14%

Owner Costs

$1,729/mo ↑ 16%

470,763

Population

156,309

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Lakewood, CO, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 141 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $278/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $3,336/year.

Median household income is $3,365/year higher in Lakewood. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $548,200 in Lakewood.

Colorado has a lower income tax rate, making Lakewood slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Lakewood — common questions

Is Raleigh or Lakewood cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 141 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Lakewood?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Lakewood it's $1,746/month — a difference of $278/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Lakewood?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $85,789 in Lakewood. Median household income is $3,365/year higher in Lakewood.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Colorado?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Colorado has 4.4% income tax, 2.9% sales tax, and 0.51% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Lakewood?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Lakewood has a cost index of 141 with rent of $1,746/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Lakewood, CO (2026)

Raleigh

Lakewood

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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