Is Raleigh or San Jose more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while San Jose is $2,500/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs San Jose, CA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and San Jose.
3
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
San Jose wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
CA
San Jose
Overview
467,665
Population
1,013,240
$72,571
Median Income
+61.9%$117,474✓
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+72.4%$2,500
$400,000✓
Median Home Price
+175.0%$1,100,000
24%
Rent-to-Income %
26%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
9.30%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
9.38%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
70°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
50°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
257 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
San Jose, CA
San Jose is a city in California with a population of 1,013,240.
Read full San Jose guide →Raleigh vs San Jose — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or San Jose?
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 Jose?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. San Jose gets 257 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in San Jose: 70°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or San Jose?
Raleigh. San Jose. 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.