Is Fresno or Raleigh more affordable?
Fresno has a median rent of $1,100/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Fresno is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Fresno, CA vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Fresno and Raleigh.
3
Fresno wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Raleigh wins
CA
Fresno
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
542,107
Population
467,665
$47,625
Median Income
+52.4%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,100✓
Median Rent / mo
+31.8%$1,450
$320,000✓
Median Home Price
+25.0%$400,000
28%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
9.30%
State Income Tax
4.75%✓
8.35%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
78°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
53°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
272 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
11"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Fresno, CA
Fresno is a city in California with a population of 542,107.
Read full Fresno guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Fresno vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Fresno or Raleigh?
California has a 9.30% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Fresno and Raleigh?
Fresno gets 272 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Fresno: 78°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Fresno or Raleigh?
Fresno. 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.