Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
37% cheaper
Raleigh is 37% more affordable than Boston. A $75,000 salary in Boston is equivalent to $47,222 in Raleigh.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Massachusetts salaries · North Carolina salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Boston has a housing index of 242 while Raleigh sits at 107 (national average = 100). The median home in Boston costs $620,000 compared to $370,000 in Raleigh, a difference of $250,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,800 in Boston versus $1,500 in Raleigh.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Boston scores 108 while Raleigh scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Boston (118) are higher than Raleigh (108).
Median household income in Boston is $76,298 compared to $67,266 in Raleigh. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Raleigh.
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