Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Raleigh is 7% more affordable than Providence. A $75,000 salary in Providence is equivalent to $69,545 in Raleigh.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Rhode Island salaries · North Carolina salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Providence has a housing index of 118 while Raleigh sits at 107 (national average = 100). The median home in Providence costs $310,000 compared to $370,000 in Raleigh, a difference of $60,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Providence versus $1,500 in Raleigh.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Providence scores 105 while Raleigh scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Providence (112) are higher than Raleigh (108).
Median household income in Providence is $47,012 compared to $67,266 in Raleigh. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Raleigh.
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