By Ziv Shay | Updated April 2026
Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $69,720
Population: 474,069
Median Income: $117,324
Population: 1,021,795
When comparing Raleigh and San Jose, the overall cost of living differs by 109.8%. San Jose carries a cost index of 214 compared to Raleigh's 102, meaning your dollar stretches 52% further in Raleigh.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. Raleigh has a housing index of 108 compared to San Jose's 280. This 172-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in Raleigh.
Raleigh is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Utilities, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Raleigh, you would need $125,882 in San Jose to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $209,804.
The median household income in Raleigh is $69,720 compared to $117,324 in San Jose. San Jose has higher incomes, though the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Raleigh scores 7/10 while San Jose scores 7/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: San Jose enjoys better weather with a score of 9/10 versus Raleigh's 7/10.
Job Market: San Jose has the stronger job market (9/10) compared to Raleigh (8/10).
Raleigh 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. San Jose may justify its higher costs with a thriving job market that many residents find worthwhile.
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