Raleigh, NC vs Sparks, NV: 110 vs 126

$1,468/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,651/mo ↑ 12%

$82,424/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$86,979/yr ↑ 6%

$377,800 ↓ 17%

Home Value

$455,900 ↑ 21%

$1,487/mo ↓ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,610/mo ↑ 8%

470,763

Population

109,106

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Sparks, NV, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $183/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $2,196/year.

Median household income is $4,555/year higher in Sparks. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $455,900 in Sparks.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Sparks — common questions

Is Raleigh or Sparks cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Sparks?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Sparks it's $1,651/month — a difference of $183/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Sparks?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $86,979 in Sparks. Median household income is $4,555/year higher in Sparks.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Nevada?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Nevada has 0% income tax, 6.85% sales tax, and 0.53% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Sparks?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Sparks has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,651/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Sparks, NV (2026)

Raleigh

Sparks

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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