Quick answer
Overall prices in the Washington, DC metro were 108.9 vs 98.2 in Raleigh, NC in 2024 (US = 100), so Washington is 10.9% more expensive than Raleigh; housing rents differ by 46% (151.1 vs 103.5). A $75,000 income in Washington buys about what $67,611 buys in Raleigh, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Washington | Raleigh | Washington vs Raleigh |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 108.9 | 98.2 | +10.9% |
| Goods | 104.8 | 96.6 | +8.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 151.1 | 103.5 | +46.1% |
| Utilities | 106.7 | 89.0 | +19.9% |
| Other services | 102.3 | 98.2 | +4.2% |
| All items, 2008 | 114.8 | 97.0 | +18.3% |
| $50,000 in Washington equals in Raleigh | $45,074 | ||
| $100,000 in Washington equals in Raleigh | $90,148 | ||
| $150,000 in Washington equals in Raleigh | $135,222 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.