Raleigh, NC vs Surprise, AZ: 110 vs 126

$1,468/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,917/mo ↑ 31%

$82,424/yr ↓ 12%

Median Income

$93,371/yr ↑ 13%

$377,800 ↓ 5%

Home Value

$396,000 ↑ 5%

$1,487/mo ↓ 6%

Owner Costs

$1,587/mo ↑ 7%

470,763

Population

149,519

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Surprise, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 126 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $449/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $5,388/year.

Median household income is $10,947/year higher in Surprise. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $396,000 in Surprise.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Surprise slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Surprise — common questions

Is Raleigh or Surprise 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 Surprise?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Surprise it's $1,917/month — a difference of $449/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Surprise?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $93,371 in Surprise. Median household income is $10,947/year higher in Surprise.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Arizona?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Surprise?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Surprise has a cost index of 126 with rent of $1,917/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Raleigh, NC vs Surprise, AZ (2026)

Raleigh

Surprise

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons