Cost of Living Comparison 2026
📍 Aiken, SC — ZIP-level rent data · COL adjusted from Charlotte, NC area
Numbers update automatically as you type
You'd spend $1.5K/month more in Raleigh, NC
$150.0K in your current city equals $167.8K in Raleigh, NC
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Aiken, SC
Raleigh, NC
Aiken, SC
The Palmetto State
Located in South Carolina, this city has a population of 33K residents.
Raleigh, NC
The Tar Heel State
Notable Facts
- •Research Triangle
- •State capital
- •Major university town
Major Industries
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Aiken, SC vs Raleigh, NC
| Category | Aiken, SC | Raleigh, NC | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
🏠Housing | $1,855/mo | $2,469/mo | ↑ $614more | 33.1% |
📦Other | $1,426/mo | $1,707/mo | ↑ $282more | 19.8% |
🚗Transportation | $1,004/mo | $1,284/mo | ↑ $280more | 27.9% |
⚡All Utilities | $474/mo | $546/mo | ↑ $72.08more | 15.2% |
🛒Groceries | $904/mo | $959/mo | ↑ $55.33more | 6.1% |
🏥Healthcare | $583/mo | $601/mo | ↑ $17.86more | 3.1% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $1,130–$1,160/mo
1BR range: $1,400–$1,880/mo
💡 Note: Rent prices are based on HUD Fair Market Rent data and represent median costs. Actual prices vary by neighborhood, amenities, and condition. Source: HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents FY2026.
Home Values
Homes in Raleigh are 99% more expensive than Aiken
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Aiken, SC
Raleigh, NC
Additional Tax Information
Aiken, SC Tax Rates
Raleigh, NC Tax Rates
💡 Note: Tax calculations are estimates based on 2024/2025 tax brackets for single filers with standard deduction. Actual taxes may vary based on filing status, deductions, credits, and local variations.
Environment
💰 See how taxes change too — compare take-home pay between South Carolina and North Carolina on TaxTakeHome.com
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