Raleigh, NC vs Tempe, AZ: 110 vs 120

$1,468/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,623/mo ↑ 11%

$82,424/yr ↑ 6%

Median Income

$77,643/yr ↓ 6%

$377,800 ↓ 10%

Home Value

$421,900 ↑ 12%

$1,487/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,554/mo ↑ 5%

470,763

Population

186,419

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Tempe, AZ, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 120 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $155/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $1,860/year.

Median household income is $4,781/year higher in Raleigh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $421,900 in Tempe.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Tempe — common questions

Is Raleigh or Tempe cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Raleigh is cheaper to live in with an index of 110 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Tempe?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Tempe it's $1,623/month — a difference of $155/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Tempe?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $77,643 in Tempe. Median household income is $4,781/year higher in Raleigh.

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 Tempe?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/mo, while Tempe has a cost index of 120 with rent of $1,623/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Raleigh

Tempe

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons