Moving from Raleigh to Fresno (2026)
Fresno has a COL index of 99 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). You'd pay about 2% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$236/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10199
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,450
per month
State tax
4.5%9.3%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,159
per month
Salary needed in Fresno to match your Raleigh lifestyle
Based on the 2% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Raleigh | Equivalent in Fresno |
|---|---|
| $40K | $39,208 |
| $50K | $49,010 |
| $60K | $58,812 |
| $75K | $73,515 |
| $80K | $78,416 |
| $100K | $98,020 |
| $120K | $117,624 |
| $150K | $147,030 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Raleigh vs Fresno
| Expense | Raleigh | Fresno |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,459 | $4,159 |
| 1BR rent | $1,700 | $1,450 |
| Groceries | $365 | $380 |
| Transport | $70 | $72 |
| Utilities | $150 | $142 |
| Internet | $60 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $2,114 | $2,050 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fresno cheaper than Raleigh?
Yes. Fresno has a cost of living index of 99 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). That's about 2% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Raleigh to Fresno?
On a $75K salary, moving from Raleigh to Fresno could save roughly $236/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,832/year.
What salary do I need in Fresno to match my Raleigh lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Raleigh, you'd need roughly $73,515/year in Fresno. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Fresno to RaleighRaleigh vs Fresno — full comparisonRaleigh cost of livingFresno cost of living
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