Moving from Oklahoma City to Raleigh (2026)

Raleigh has a COL index of 101 vs 86 for Oklahoma City (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 17% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$612 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
86101
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,100$1,700
per month
State tax
4.8%4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,441$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Raleigh to match your Oklahoma City lifestyle

Based on the 17% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in Oklahoma CityEquivalent in Raleigh
$40K$46,977
$50K$58,721
$60K$70,465
$75K$88,081
$80K$93,953
$100K$117,442
$120K$140,930
$150K$176,163

Monthly budget at $75K — Oklahoma City vs Raleigh

ExpenseOklahoma CityRaleigh
Monthly take-home$4,441$4,459
1BR rent$1,100$1,700
Groceries$353$365
Transport$50$70
Utilities$175$150
Internet$55$60
Left after essentials$2,708$2,114

Frequently asked questions

Is Raleigh cheaper than Oklahoma City?

No. Raleigh has a cost of living index of 101 vs 86 for Oklahoma City (100 = US average). That's about 17% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Oklahoma City to Raleigh?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Raleigh run about $612/month more than Oklahoma City. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Oklahoma City, you'd need roughly $88,081/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