Raleigh, NC vs Plano, TX: 110 vs 132

$1,468/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,792/mo ↑ 22%

$82,424/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$108,649/yr ↑ 32%

$377,800 ↓ 14%

Home Value

$440,600 ↑ 17%

$1,487/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,829/mo ↑ 23%

470,763

Population

287,339

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Plano, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 132 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $324/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $3,888/year.

Median household income is $26,225/year higher in Plano. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $440,600 in Plano.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Plano — common questions

Is Raleigh or Plano cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 132 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Plano?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Plano it's $1,792/month — a difference of $324/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Plano?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $108,649 in Plano. Median household income is $26,225/year higher in Plano.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Texas?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Plano?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Plano has a cost index of 132 with rent of $1,792/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Plano, TX (2026)

Raleigh

Plano

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons