Raleigh, NC vs Lowell, MA: 110 vs 119

$1,468/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 9%

$82,424/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↓ 8%

$377,800 ↓ 4%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 5%

$1,487/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 12%

470,763

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $135/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $1,620/year.

Median household income is $6,219/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Lowell — common questions

Is Raleigh or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Lowell?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $135/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Lowell?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $6,219/year higher in Raleigh.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Massachusetts?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Raleigh

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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