Is Boston or Raleigh more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Raleigh.
1
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
4
Raleigh wins
MA
Boston
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
672,814
Population
467,665
$81,744✓
Median Income
-11.2%$72,571
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-18.7%$1,450✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-34.5%$400,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
5.00%
State Income Tax
4.75%✓
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Boston vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Raleigh?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Raleigh?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Raleigh?
Boston. 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.