Moving from Melbourne to Raleigh (2026)
Raleigh has a COL index of 101 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). You'd pay about 8% less for the same lifestyle.
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Key differences
Salary needed in Raleigh to match your Melbourne lifestyle
Based on the 8% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Melbourne | 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 |
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Monthly budget at $75K — Melbourne vs Raleigh
| Expense | Melbourne | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $3,000 | $4,459 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $1,700 |
| Groceries | $380 | $365 |
| Transport | $150 | $70 |
| Utilities | $130 | $150 |
| Internet | $62 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $678 | $2,114 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Raleigh cheaper than Melbourne?
Yes. Raleigh has a cost of living index of 101 vs 110 for Melbourne (100 = US average). That's about 8% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Melbourne to Raleigh?
On a $75K salary, moving from Melbourne to Raleigh saves roughly $2,431/month on core expenses. That's ~$29,172/year.
What salary do I need in Raleigh to match my Melbourne lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Melbourne, you'd need roughly $68,864/year in Raleigh. This is based on the overall COL index difference.
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only