Cost of Living

Wake County strikes the perfect balance between affordability and quality

With a competitive cost of living index, a favorable housing market, and a variety of home options, our region offers exceptional value. Compare key factors like the overall living index, housing index, and median home costs to see why Wake County is an ideal place to live, work, and thrive.

Cost of Living Index Comparison

While our region continues to grow and offer a superior quality of life, our cost of living remains below the national average.

Atlanta
98.3
Austin, TX
97.4
Washington, DC
141.9
Boston
145.9

Cost of Living Calculator (2024)

ExpenseRaleigh, NC (MSA)National Average
Gasoline per Gallon$3.23$3.32
Optometrist Visit$109.33$129.23
Utilities$176.18$205.94
Apartment Rent$1,514$1,550
Home Price$466,682$515,975
Milk per Gallon$4.58$4.69

Cost of Living Calculator | Interactive Tool (Link)


What $2,200 in Monthly Rent Gets You in Wake County

Based on apartments built since 2018, $2,200 per month typically covers an unfurnished two-bedroom unit with approximately 950 square feet and 1.5 to 2 bathrooms.

Atlanta
1,219 SF
Austin, TX
1,092 SF
Denver, CO
1,008 SF
Boston, MA
520 SF


New Home Construction Cost

For homes built since 2019, a typical new build at this price point includes 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 2,400 square feet of living space.

Raleigh, NC$466,682
Atlanta, GA$483,427
Austin, TX$500,842
Denver, CO$650,555
Boston, MA$1,309,939
Washington, DC$1,149,206
San Francisco, CA$1,383,783
New York, NY (Brooklyn)$1,411,779