Is Raleigh or Virginia Beach more affordable?
Raleigh has a median rent of $1,450/month, while Virginia Beach is $1,350/month. Virginia Beach is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Raleigh, NC vs Virginia Beach, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Raleigh and Virginia Beach.
2
Raleigh wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Virginia Beach wins
NC
Raleigh
vs
VA
Virginia Beach
Overview
467,665
Population
459,470
$72,571✓
Median Income
-1.4%$71,551
Cost of Living
$1,450
Median Rent / mo
-6.9%$1,350✓
$400,000
Median Home Price
-15.0%$340,000✓
24%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
4.75%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
7.25%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
71°F
Avg High Temp
67°F
50°F
Avg Low Temp
48°F
213 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days
46"
Annual Rainfall
46"
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
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 459,470.
Read full Virginia Beach guide →Raleigh vs Virginia Beach — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Raleigh or Virginia Beach?
North Carolina has a 4.75% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Raleigh wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Raleigh and Virginia Beach?
Raleigh gets 213 sunny days/year. Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Raleigh: 71°F. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F
Which city is better for families — Raleigh or Virginia Beach?
Raleigh. Virginia Beach. 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.