Is Raleigh or Los Angeles more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Los Angeles is $1,852/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Los Angeles, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Los Angeles.
4
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Los Angeles wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
CA
Los Angeles
Overview
467,665
Population
3,898,747
$72,571✓
Median Income
-4.7%$69,144
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+27.7%$1,852
$400,000✓
Median Home Price
+87.5%$750,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
9.50%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
75°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
58°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
284 days✓
46"
Annual Rainfall
15"
Who should choose
Raleigh, NC
Raleigh is a city in North Carolina with a population of 467,665.
Read full Raleigh guide →Who should choose
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a city in California with a population of 3,898,747.
Read full Los Angeles guide →Raleigh vs Los Angeles — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Los Angeles?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. California has a 9.30% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Los Angeles?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Los Angeles gets 284 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Los Angeles: 75°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Los Angeles?
Raleigh. Los Angeles. 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.