Is Atlanta or Raleigh more affordable?
Atlanta has a median rent of $1,700/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Atlanta, GA vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Atlanta and Raleigh.
2
Atlanta wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Raleigh wins
GA
Atlanta
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
498,715
Population
467,665
$72,081
Median Income
+0.7%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,700
Median Rent / mo
-14.7%$1,450✓
$390,000✓
Median Home Price
+2.6%$400,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
5.49%
State Income Tax
4.75%✓
8.90%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
72°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
52°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
217 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
52"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Atlanta, GA
Atlanta is a city in Georgia with a population of 498,715.
Read full Atlanta guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Atlanta vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Atlanta or Raleigh?
Georgia has a 5.49% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Atlanta and Raleigh?
Atlanta gets 217 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Atlanta: 72°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Atlanta or Raleigh?
Atlanta. Raleigh. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.