Moving from Honolulu to Raleigh (2026)
Raleigh has a COL index of 101 vs 186 for Honolulu (100 = US average). You'd pay about 46% less for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Raleigh to match your Honolulu lifestyle
Based on the 46% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Honolulu | Equivalent in Raleigh |
|---|---|
| $40K | $21,720 |
| $50K | $27,151 |
| $60K | $32,581 |
| $75K | $40,726 |
| $80K | $43,441 |
| $100K | $54,301 |
| $120K | $65,161 |
| $150K | $81,452 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Honolulu vs Raleigh
| Expense | Honolulu | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,053 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $3,200 | $1,700 |
| Groceries | $456 | $365 |
| Transport | $70 | $70 |
| Utilities | $185 | $150 |
| Internet | $75 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $67 | $2,114 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Raleigh cheaper than Honolulu?
Yes. Raleigh has a cost of living index of 101 vs 186 for Honolulu (100 = US average). That's about 46% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Honolulu to Raleigh?
On a $75K salary, moving from Honolulu to Raleigh could save roughly $1,641/month on core expenses. That's ~$19,692/year.
What salary do I need in Raleigh to match my Honolulu lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Honolulu, you'd need roughly $40,726/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