Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
Raleigh is 20% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $59,766 in Raleigh.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Raleigh has a housing index of 107 while Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Raleigh costs $370,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $130,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Raleigh versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Raleigh scores 100 while Riverside scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Raleigh (108) are higher than Riverside (102).
Median household income in Raleigh is $67,266 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Raleigh.
Amazon affiliate links