Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $69,720
Population: 474,069
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing Raleigh and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 15.7%. Raleigh carries a cost index of 102 compared to San Antonio's 86, meaning your dollar stretches 16% further in San Antonio.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. San Antonio has a housing index of 78 compared to Raleigh's 108. This 30-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in San Antonio.
Raleigh is more affordable for: Utilities.
San Antonio is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Raleigh, you would need $50,588 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $84,314.
The median household income in Raleigh is $69,720 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. While Raleigh has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Raleigh scores 7/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Raleigh has an edge in climate with a 7/10 weather score compared to San Antonio's 6/10.
Job Market: Raleigh's job market (8/10) is stronger than San Antonio's (6/10).
San Antonio is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. Raleigh may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
