Moving from Naperville to Raleigh (2026)

Raleigh has a COL index of 101 vs 100 for Naperville (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$23 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
100101
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,650$1,700
per month
State tax
5%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Raleigh to match your Naperville lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in NapervilleEquivalent in Raleigh
$40K$40,400
$50K$50,500
$60K$60,600
$75K$75,750
$80K$80,800
$100K$101,000
$120K$121,200
$150K$151,500

Monthly budget at $75K — Naperville vs Raleigh

ExpenseNapervilleRaleigh
Monthly take-home$4,428$4,459
1BR rent$1,650$1,700
Groceries$380$365
Transport$72$70
Utilities$158$150
Internet$62$60
Left after essentials$2,106$2,114

Frequently asked questions

Is Raleigh cheaper than Naperville?

No. Raleigh has a cost of living index of 101 vs 100 for Naperville (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Naperville to Raleigh?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Raleigh run about $23/month more than Naperville. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

What salary do I need in Raleigh to match my Naperville lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Naperville, you'd need roughly $75,750/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