Pittsburgh vs Raleigh: cost of living compared
Raleigh is 14% more expensive than Pittsburgh overall. State income tax tops out around 3.07% in PA vs 4.5% in NC.
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, Pittsburgh offers a noticeably lower cost of living compared to Raleigh, primarily driven by a substantial difference in housing expenses. While some daily costs like food and transportation are quite similar between the two metros, the significant gap in housing prices makes Pittsburgh a more budget-friendly option for many. Raleigh's overall expenses align closely with the national average, whereas Pittsburgh remains well below it.
Housing
Housing costs present the most significant divergence. Both buying and renting are considerably more expensive in Raleigh than in Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh's median home prices and rental rates are much lower, reflecting an older housing stock with more established neighborhoods. Raleigh, experiencing rapid growth, has higher home values and rents, often featuring newer construction and more competitive markets for both ownership and rentals.
Taxes and everyday costs
When it comes to daily expenditures, food and healthcare costs are roughly comparable between Pittsburgh and Raleigh, both sitting below the national average. Transportation costs are also quite similar in both metros. However, utility expenses are slightly higher in Pittsburgh, while Raleigh has a higher state income tax rate, which can impact take-home pay and overall daily spending for residents.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, a move between these cities brings distinct lifestyle changes. Pittsburgh offers a four-season climate with colder winters and a more established, hilly urban landscape. Raleigh provides a milder climate with warmer winters and a generally flatter, more sprawling metropolitan area. Pittsburgh's public transit is more extensive, while Raleigh is more car-dependent, though both have similar average commute times.
Bottom line
For those weighing a move, the most impactful financial consideration is housing. Pittsburgh offers a considerably lower entry point for homeownership and more affordable rental options. While other daily expenses like food and transportation are comparable, the higher state income tax in Raleigh and slightly higher utilities in Pittsburgh are worth noting. Ultimately, Pittsburgh generally provides a more economical lifestyle overall due to its housing affordability.
| Measure | Pittsburgh, PA | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 88 | 100 |
| Housing index | 64 | 106 |
| Transportation index | 98 | 97 |
| Food index | 95 | 95 |
| Healthcare index | 98 | 95 |
| Utilities index | 102 | 98 |
| Misc index | 88 | 90 |
| Median home price | $218,000 | $388,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,050/mo | $1,500/mo |
| Average commute | 28 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.