Durham, NC vs Raleigh, NC: Cost of Living Comparison
Durham has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Durham | Raleigh | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 102 | 107 | Durham |
| Housing | 102 ($988) | 109 ($1,028) | Durham |
| Transportation | 101 ($3.50) | 102 ($3.50) | Durham |
| Food & groceries | 106 ($435) | 110 ($451) | Durham |
| Utilities | 101 ($184) | 105 ($196) | Durham |
| Healthcare | 101 ($133) | 105 ($142) | Durham |
| Median annual wage | 99 ($47,970) | 99 ($47,970) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Durham, NC or Raleigh, NC cheaper to live in?
Durham, NC is cheaper overall by about 5 index points (Durham, NC: 102, Raleigh, NC: 107; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Durham, NC vs Raleigh, NC?
A single adult needs roughly $35,700/year in Durham, NC and $37,450/year in Raleigh, NC to cover basic living costs.