Moving from Raleigh to Stockton (2026)

Stockton has a COL index of 100 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). You'd pay about 1% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$179/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
101100
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,500
per month
State tax
4.5%9.3%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,159
per month

Salary needed in Stockton to match your Raleigh lifestyle

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

Your salary in RaleighEquivalent in Stockton
$40K$39,604
$50K$49,505
$60K$59,406
$75K$74,257
$80K$79,208
$100K$99,010
$120K$118,812
$150K$148,515

Monthly budget at $75K — Raleigh vs Stockton

ExpenseRaleighStockton
Monthly take-home$4,459$4,159
1BR rent$1,700$1,500
Groceries$365$388
Transport$70$68
Utilities$150$145
Internet$60$65
Left after essentials$2,114$1,993

Frequently asked questions

Is Stockton cheaper than Raleigh?

Yes. Stockton has a cost of living index of 100 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). That's about 1% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Raleigh to Stockton?

On a $75K salary, moving from Raleigh to Stockton could save roughly $179/month on core expenses. That's ~$2,148/year.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Raleigh, you'd need roughly $74,257/year in Stockton. 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