What is a Good Salary to Live Comfortably in Raleigh, NC? [2025]

What is a Good Salary to Live Comfortably in Raleigh, NC? [2025]

Thinking about making Raleigh, NC, your new home? Here is everything you need to know about income requirements and living costs for a comfortable life in Raleigh. 

Raleigh is an excellent place to relocate to for many reasons. Offering a thriving job market, exceptional education, and beautiful real estate, it is no wonder that many families and young professionals love to call Raleigh home. 

Raleigh has many pros and cons. As this area rapidly expands, more job opportunities, restaurants, schools, and neighborhoods are emerging in the city and its many suburbs. Whether you are moving to find your dream home, for an excellent education, a job, or to retire, this city has something to offer everyone. 

If you're planning a move to Raleigh, you will want to know how much it costs.  According to a CNBC and SmartAsset study, a single adult needs an average salary of about $102,752 to live comfortably in Raleigh. This figure accounts for housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and discretionary spending while maintaining a healthy savings rate.

However, your needs may vary significantly based on your lifestyle, family size, and financial goals. Many residents live comfortably on less, while others prefer higher incomes for additional security and lifestyle choices.

Here is what you need to earn to live comfortably in Raleigh, NC.

1. Average Income and Median Salaries in Raleigh 

Raleigh, located in the Research Triangle, is known for its high-tech and research jobs. It is also home to NC State University, which provides many employment opportunities in the education sector.

Raleigh is in the top 25 out of 100 cities with the highest income needed to live comfortably. With an hourly wage of $49.50 needed, this estimate, sadly, is more than double what an average resident in Raleigh makes. 

Unfortunately, living comfortably does not always mean being able to pay bills. It means supporting yourself and paying off everything while having some to save.

Living comfortably can be measured by the 50/30/20 budget: 50% of your paycheck goes toward essentials, 30% to things you want, and 20% to savings and investments. 

Raleigh's salary market presents an interesting picture. The median salary in Raleigh, NC, is $57,817, with 80% of wages falling between $26,986 and $139,200.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Raleigh's unemployment rate for individuals aged 16 and above is 3.1%. The city has made significant progress in recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

The job market in Raleigh is expected to grow exponentially, which is excellent news for job seekers. However, the poverty rate in Raleigh is 11.4%, slightly higher than the national poverty rate of 11.1%. Furthermore, the minimum wage in Raleigh is the same as the national average, at $7.25 per hour.

The median household income for families and couples is $86,309. Interestingly, the median household income peaks among 4-person households, reaching $128,204, reflecting the city's appeal to growing families.

2. Cost of Living in Raleigh

The cost of living in Raleigh, NC, is 3% lower than the national average. However, it's important to note that the cost of living can vary depending on several factors, such as your profession, personal preferences, average salary, and the real estate market.

Specifically, housing expenses in Raleigh are 9% lower than the national average, while utilities are 10% lower. Groceries are the same as the national average, and transportation costs are 8% lower. 

Raleigh is a constantly developing city with new residential areas and job opportunities popping up frequently. Although it is a highly desirable place to live in North Carolina, the cost of living is higher than that of other cities and towns in the state.

According to Payscale, here are the current average prices in Raleigh, NC: 

3. Real Estate Market Insights 

Housing expenses in Raleigh are slightly lower than the national average, but the actual cost depends on several factors, such as location, neighborhood, housing type, and size. 

The Raleigh area's position as a hub for technology, education, and research will drive significant economic and population growth through 2025. As a result, there will be a high demand for housing. 

Currently, the housing market in Raleigh is favorable for sellers, as more buyers are looking to purchase homes than are available. Although many homes are still available, the prices may be higher, and they tend to sell quickly. You need to act fast if you want a home in one of Raleigh's best neighborhoods.

On average, Raleigh homes sell after 35 days on the market, compared to 17 days last year, indicating a more balanced market than recent years' fast pace. The Raleigh housing market has shown resilience with steady, though moderated, growth. 

Raleigh offers abundant real estate investment opportunities, whether you decide to rent or buy. However, if you are looking for cheaper or short-term living, the average rental price in Raleigh is $1,425 per month. This is more affordable than the national average of $1,700 per month. 

4. Industry-Specific Salary Expectations 

Raleigh's position in the Research Triangle has made it a technology powerhouse and is home to many companies, including Cisco and Microsoft. Mid-level engineering positions at around $98,000 are common. 

The tech sector is robust, with over 10,000 current tech openings and a projected 9.5% job growth rate. The tech industry in Raleigh accounts for over 18% of the city's total employment and contributes significantly to the local economy.

The most popular occupations in Raleigh, NC, are Software Engineers, Project Managers, and other professional roles that benefit from the city's diverse economy spanning the technology, healthcare, education, and government sectors.

5. Economic Growth and Future Outlook in Raleigh 

Raleigh is one of the top 10 cities for economic development in the US. With solid job and wage growth, the city remains one of the most affordable housing markets compared to other surrounding cities. Raleigh's future outlook remains positive, and the area is expected to increase in population as well. 

Business is booming in Raleigh, and numerous companies are moving from other parts of the country into the area. Wake County's most prominent industries, including government, education, and healthcare, are some of the top reasons the economy is booming.

Raleigh's position in the Research Triangle continues to drive economic growth. Apple said it's committed to building a $1 billion East Coast hub there, though it put a four-year pause on its expansion earlier in 2024. Other major companies, such as Meta, Novo Nordisk, and Amazon, are also growing their operations in the area.

Raleigh is an excellent city in which to both work and live. There are countless opportunities and services available for everyone. If you're planning to move to Raleigh and are interested in starting a new business or finding emerging ones, this city is the perfect place to explore.

Whether you are searching for employment options or starting up a new business, employment in Raleigh is available at high-tech entrepreneurial companies, major corporations, and a vast array of small and mid-sized companies. The Research Triangle is one of the top locations if you are searching for a thriving job market. 

The employment landscape remains strong:

• Raleigh is number two in tech and number one in STEM job growth nationally
• The Triangle is the second-fastest growing tech hub in the US, with 4,000 tech companies employing more than 60,000
• In 2024, the state added nearly 165,000 residents, which is the fourth-highest total growth among states

6. Salary Recommendations by Situation 

For Single Professionals

• Comfortable living: $75,000-$100,000+
• Basic needs: $50,000-$65,000
• Luxury lifestyle: $120,000+

For Families

• Two-income household: $120,000-$150,000 combined
• Single-income family: $90,000-$120,000
• With children: Add $15,000-$25,000 per child for childcare and expenses

For Recent Graduates

• Entry-level positions: $45,000-$60,000
• Tech/STEM fields: $60,000-$80,000
• Professional services: $50,000-$70,000

Methodology

Data was sourced from WRAL, Payscale, the U.S. Census Bureau, and Gusto to determine the cost of living comfortably in Raleigh, NC. 

FAQS

How much must I make to live comfortably in Raleigh, NC?

Many factors go into what salary you need to live comfortably in Raleigh. Depending on your preferences, a single adult needs an average wage of about $102,752 to live comfortably in Raleigh. 

What is the cost of living in Raleigh, NC?

Raleigh's cost of living is considered relatively affordable, at 3% lower than the national average. Housing costs rise as the market grows, but homes are cheaper here than in similar-sized metropolitan areas. 

Why is Raleigh booming?

One main factor influencing the area's growth is the job market offered by schools and local corporations. Due to the high number of opportunities, many university students choose to lay permanent roots in the area after graduating. 

Comfortable Salary in Raleigh, NC - Final Thoughts 

Raleigh offers an attractive combination of economic opportunity, reasonable living costs, and quality of life. While salaries in Raleigh, NC, are generally below the national average, the cost of living in Raleigh is less than the national average, so your purchasing power can actually be quite strong.

The city's continued growth in technology, healthcare, and education sectors, combined with its position in the Research Triangle, suggests a promising future for job seekers and professionals at all levels.

Whether you're a recent graduate starting your career, a mid-level professional seeking new opportunities, or a family looking for an affordable place to grow, Raleigh's salary landscape and cost of living make it an increasingly attractive destination in the Southeast.

When moving to a new place, ensuring that the city meets your needs is crucial, especially in terms of the cost of living. Understanding the cost of living in an area is an excellent way to determine whether you can afford it.

Are you ready to explore what Raleigh has to offer? Contact Raleigh Realty today to learn about available properties and neighborhoods that fit your budget and lifestyle. Our experienced team can help you find your perfect home in North Carolina's thriving capital city.