Moving from Baltimore to Raleigh (2026)
Raleigh has a COL index of 101 vs 110 for Baltimore (100 = US average). You'd pay about 8% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Raleigh to match your Baltimore lifestyle
Based on the 8% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Baltimore | Equivalent in Raleigh |
|---|---|
| $40K | $36,727 |
| $50K | $45,909 |
| $60K | $55,091 |
| $75K | $68,864 |
| $80K | $73,455 |
| $100K | $91,818 |
| $120K | $110,182 |
| $150K | $137,727 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Baltimore vs Raleigh
| Expense | Baltimore | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,441 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,700 |
| Groceries | $391 | $365 |
| Transport | $88 | $70 |
| Utilities | $175 | $150 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,822 | $2,114 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Raleigh cheaper than Baltimore?
Yes. Raleigh has a cost of living index of 101 vs 110 for Baltimore (100 = US average). That's about 8% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Baltimore to Raleigh?
On a $75K salary, moving from Baltimore to Raleigh could save roughly $274/month on core expenses. That's ~$3,288/year.
What salary do I need in Raleigh to match my Baltimore lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Baltimore, you'd need roughly $68,864/year in Raleigh. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only