Is Raleigh or Sacramento more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Sacramento is $1,650/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Sacramento, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Sacramento.
4
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
1
Sacramento wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
CA
Sacramento
Overview
467,665
Population
524,943
$72,571✓
Median Income
-16.3%$60,715
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+13.8%$1,650
$400,000✓
Median Home Price
+25.0%$500,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
33%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
8.75%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
73°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
269 days✓
46"
Annual Rainfall
18"
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
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento is a city in California with a population of 524,943.
Read full Sacramento guide →Raleigh vs Sacramento — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Sacramento?
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 Sacramento?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Sacramento gets 269 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Sacramento: 73°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Sacramento?
Raleigh. Sacramento. 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.