Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
San Antonio is 12% more affordable than Raleigh. A $75,000 salary in Raleigh is equivalent to $66,176 in San Antonio.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: North Carolina salaries · Texas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Raleigh has a housing index of 107 while San Antonio sits at 78 (national average = 100). The median home in Raleigh costs $370,000 compared to $250,000 in San Antonio, a difference of $120,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Raleigh versus $1,200 in San Antonio.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Raleigh scores 100 while San Antonio scores 93.
Healthcare costs in Raleigh (108) are higher than San Antonio (95).
Median household income in Raleigh is $67,266 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in San Antonio.
Amazon affiliate links