Boston vs Raleigh: Cost of Living

28%

Boston is about 28% more expensive than Raleigh overall.

How Boston Compares to Raleigh

Category by category

Renting ▲ 32%
Buying ▲ 61%
Goods ▲ 4%
Services ▲ 42%

Key Facts

BostonRaleigh
Median Rent$2,196/mo$1,661/mo
Median Home$722,800$450,300
Median Income$97,791$85,060
State Income Tax5% + 4% surtax4.25% flat
Sales Tax6.25%7.25%

Housing: The Biggest Difference

Raleigh has the lower median home price by $272,500. Monthly rent is $535/month cheaper in Raleigh.

Compare With Your Salary

Sources: Housing from Census ACS 2024. Goods and services from BEA Regional Price Parities 2023. Taxes from Tax Foundation. Full disclaimer.

Boston vs Raleigh FAQ

Rent is $535/month cheaper in Raleigh. Boston's median rent is $2,196/month, while Raleigh's is $1,661/month. Source: Census ACS 2024.

Raleigh has the lower median home price at $450,300, saving $272,500 compared to Boston. Source: Census ACS 2024.