Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
11% cheaper
Raleigh is 11% more affordable than Stockton. A $75,000 salary in Stockton is equivalent to $67,105 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 Stockton sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Raleigh costs $370,000 compared to $400,000 in Stockton, a difference of $30,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Raleigh versus $1,500 in Stockton.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Raleigh scores 100 while Stockton scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Raleigh (108) are higher than Stockton (101).
Median household income in Raleigh is $67,266 compared to $54,658 in Stockton. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Raleigh.
Amazon affiliate links