Is Raleigh or Tampa more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Tampa is $1,700/month. Raleigh is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Tampa, FL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Tampa.
2
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Tampa wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
FL
Tampa
Overview
467,665
Population
400,753
$72,571✓
Median Income
-21.7%$56,842
Cost of Living
$1,450✓
Median Rent / mo
+17.2%$1,700
$400,000
Median Home Price
-6.3%$375,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
36%
Taxes
4.75%
State Income Tax
None✓
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
7.50%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
81°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
61°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
246 days✓
46"
Annual Rainfall
47"
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
Tampa, FL
Tampa is a city in Florida with a population of 400,753.
Read full Tampa guide →Raleigh vs Tampa — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Tampa?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Florida has no state income tax. Tampa wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Tampa?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Tampa gets 246 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Tampa: 81°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Tampa?
Raleigh. Tampa. 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.