Cost of Living Comparison 2026
Data: HUD rent estimates, BLS cost of living
Raleigh, NC and Durham, NC have similar living costs
$150.0K in your current city equals $150.0K in Durham, NC
Based on monthly living costs (rent, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare). Home purchase prices shown separately below.
Raleigh, NC
Durham, NC
Raleigh, NC
The Tar Heel State
Notable Facts
- •Research Triangle
- •State capital
- •Major university town
Major Industries
Durham, NC
The Tar Heel State
Located in North Carolina, this city has a population of 325K residents.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Annual spending: Raleigh, NC vs Durham, NC
| Category | Raleigh, NC | Durham, NC | Difference | Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Housing | $2,469/mo | $2,469/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
Groceries | $959/mo | $959/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
Transportation | $1,284/mo | $1,284/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
All Utilities | $546/mo | $546/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
Healthcare | $601/mo | $601/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
Other | $1,707/mo | $1,707/mo | → $0 | 0.0% |
🏠Rent Comparison
1BR range: $1,400–$1,880/mo
1BR range: $1,480–$1,750/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 Durham are 20% less expensive than Raleigh
Source: Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI), January 2026
Tax Comparison
Annual tax burden comparison at $150.0K salary
Raleigh, NC
Durham, NC
Additional Tax Information
Raleigh, NC Tax Rates
Durham, 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
Where your money goes further
Cities cheaper than Raleigh, NC on a $150.0K salary
Want to compare different cities?
New Comparison