Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Raleigh is 13% more affordable than Tacoma. A $75,000 salary in Tacoma is equivalent to $65,385 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 · Washington salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Raleigh has a housing index of 107 while Tacoma sits at 140 (national average = 100). The median home in Raleigh costs $370,000 compared to $400,000 in Tacoma, a difference of $30,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Raleigh versus $1,600 in Tacoma.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Raleigh scores 100 while Tacoma scores 105. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Raleigh (108) are higher than Tacoma (106).
Median household income in Raleigh is $67,266 compared to $58,974 in Tacoma. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Raleigh.
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