Nashville vs Raleigh: cost of living compared
Raleigh is 7% cheaper than Nashville overall. Nashville (TN) has no state income tax; NC tops out around 4.5%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Overall, Raleigh offers a more budget-friendly cost of living compared to Nashville. The primary driver of this difference is housing, which is noticeably more expensive in Nashville. While some other categories like utilities are roughly similar, Raleigh generally presents lower costs across most spending areas, making it the more economical choice for many everyday expenses.
Housing
Housing costs show a significant difference, with both median home prices and typical one-bedroom rents being higher in Nashville. Raleigh's housing market is more accessible, offering more affordable options for both buying and renting. Both metros feature a mix of suburban and urban housing, but the entry point for homeownership or rental agreements is notably lower in Raleigh.
Taxes and everyday costs
Raleigh benefits from the absence of a state income tax, which can significantly impact take-home pay compared to Nashville's state income tax. Beyond that, transportation, food, and healthcare expenses are generally lower in Raleigh. Utilities are roughly comparable between the two cities, but daily spending on most other necessities tends to be more economical in Raleigh.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene and generally faster pace, while Raleigh offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a strong focus on technology and research. Both metros experience distinct four seasons, though Nashville can feel a bit warmer in summer. Getting around in both cities often relies on personal vehicles, though Raleigh's average commute is slightly shorter.
Bottom line
For households weighing a move, Raleigh generally presents a more favorable financial landscape dueating to lower overall costs, especially in housing and the absence of state income tax. While Nashville offers a unique cultural experience, the financial burden on a household budget will likely be greater there. Raleigh provides a more economical option for daily living and long-term housing costs.
| Measure | Nashville, TN | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 108 | 100 |
| Housing index | 119 | 106 |
| Transportation index | 104 | 97 |
| Food index | 98 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 98 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 98 | 98 |
| Misc index | 95 | 90 |
| Median home price | $438,000 | $388,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,650/mo | $1,500/mo |
| Average commute | 29 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific Raleigh home with the True Cost Calculator.