Moving from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC
Thinking about moving from Washington, DC to Raleigh, NC? Overall prices are 10% lower in Raleigh, NC than in Washington, DC, making Raleigh, NC the more affordable of the two. This guide breaks down housing, income, taxes, and climate using the latest US government data so you can plan your relocation budget with realistic numbers rather than guesswork.
Salary calculator
How much would you need to earn in Raleigh, NC to maintain your standard of living from Washington, DC?
Equivalent salary in Raleigh, NC
$67,340
You could earn $7,660 less (10% lower) and break even.
Based on BEA Regional Price Parity (cost index) for each metro area. This estimates overall purchasing power; it does not account for taxes or take-home pay differences.
Housing
Median rent is 20% lower in Raleigh ($1,572) than in Washington ($1,954). The typical home value is 44% lower in Raleigh ($415,800) than in Washington ($737,100). Factor in moving costs, deposits, and the gap between advertised and median rents when you set a housing budget.
Income & jobs
Median household income is 22% lower in Raleigh ($85,395) than in Washington ($109,870). After adjusting pay for local prices, a typical paycheck goes further in Washington, DC.
Taxes
State tax figures for this route are still being compiled.
Climate & air quality
Average air quality index is 49% higher in Raleigh (47.0) than in Washington (24.0). Lower AQI means cleaner air on a typical day, though seasonal wildfire smoke and pollen can shift this.
Quick numbers
Metric
Washington
DC
Raleigh
NC
Median rent
Median home value
Median income
Cost index
Sources: US Census ACS · BEA Regional Price Parities
Frequently asked questions
Is Raleigh, NC cheaper than Washington, DC?
Yes. Raleigh, NC has an overall cost index of 98.4 versus 109.5 in Washington, DC — about 10% cheaper overall.
How much is rent in Raleigh, NC?
The median gross rent in Raleigh is $1,572 per month (US Census ACS).
What salary do you need in Raleigh, NC?
Median household income in Raleigh is $85,395. Use the salary calculator on this page to convert your current Washington pay into the equivalent you'd need in Raleigh.