Is Raleigh or San Diego more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while San Diego is $2,100/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs San Diego, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and San Diego.
3
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Diego wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
CA
San Diego
Overview
467,665
Population
1,386,932
$72,571
Median Income
+9.8%$79,685✓
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+44.8%$2,100
$400,000✓
Median Home Price
+95.0%$780,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
32%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.75%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
55°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
266 days✓
46"
Annual Rainfall
12"
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
San Diego, CA
San Diego is a city in California with a population of 1,386,932.
Read full San Diego guide →Raleigh vs San Diego — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or San Diego?
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 San Diego?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. San Diego gets 266 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in San Diego: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or San Diego?
Raleigh. San Diego. 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.