Is Phoenix or Raleigh more affordable?
Phoenix has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Raleigh is $1,450/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Phoenix, AZ vs Raleigh, NC
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Phoenix and Raleigh.
2
Phoenix wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Raleigh wins
AZ
Phoenix
vs
NC
Raleigh
Overview
1,608,139
Population
467,665
$62,000
Median Income
+17.1%$72,571✓
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-12.1%$1,450✓
$420,000
Median Home Price
-4.8%$400,000✓
32%
Rent-to-Income %
24%
Taxes
2.50%✓
State Income Tax
4.75%
8.60%
Local Tax Rate
7.25%
Climate & Weather
86°F
Avg High Temp
71°F
63°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
299 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
8"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a city in Arizona with a population of 1,608,139.
Read full Phoenix guide →Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Phoenix vs Raleigh — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Phoenix or Raleigh?
Arizona has a 2.50% state income tax. North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Phoenix wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Phoenix and Raleigh?
Phoenix gets 299 sunny days/year. Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Phoenix: 86°F. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F
Which city is better for families — Phoenix or Raleigh?
Phoenix. 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.