Raleigh, NC

Research Triangle anchor — strong tech hiring and moderate cost of living versus coastal metros.

Overall rank: #1145 of 2350
Relocation score: 63 / 100
Cost of living: 98 US avg = 100
Median household income: $80,000
Unemployment: 3.5%
State income tax (top): 4.5%
Jan low / Jul high: 32°F / 89°F
Region type: city

Data sources

Bureau of Labor Statistics — LAUS (2024 Q4) — unemployment rate
Bureau of Economic Analysis — Regional Price Parities (2023) — cost of living index
U.S. Census Bureau — ACS 5-Year Estimates (2023) — median household income
Tax Foundation (2024) — state top income tax rate
NOAA — U.S. Climate Normals (1991–2020) — January low / July high temperatures

Data updated: Jun 1, 2026, 9:47 PM UTC · 2350 regions ranked · Run 6ceffc5c · Checksum e23b3855861f…

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