Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
5% cheaper
Raleigh is 5% more affordable than Springfield. A $75,000 salary in Springfield is equivalent to $71,495 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 · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Raleigh has a housing index of 107 while Springfield sits at 106 (national average = 100). The median home in Raleigh costs $370,000 compared to $230,000 in Springfield, a difference of $140,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Raleigh versus $1,200 in Springfield.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Raleigh scores 100 while Springfield scores 104. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Raleigh (108) are lower than Springfield (114).
Median household income in Raleigh is $67,266 compared to $41,612 in Springfield. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Raleigh.
Amazon affiliate links