Raleigh vs Philadelphia: Cost of Living & Housing Comparison
Median home value runs $347,000 in Raleigh, 61% higher than the $215,500 median in Philadelphia.
Income differs between the two: $78,631 at the median in Raleigh, $57,537 in Philadelphia.
On median rent, Raleigh runs $1,371 while Philadelphia runs $1,250.
Between the two, Philadelphia carries the higher-rated hazard risk — FEMA puts it at Very High, versus Relatively High for Raleigh.
| Metric | Raleigh, NC | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 465,517 | 1,593,208 |
| Median home value | $347,000 | $215,500 |
| Median household income | $78,631 | $57,537 |
| Median gross rent | $1,371 | $1,250 |
| Climate risk (FEMA) | Relatively High | Very High |
Housing is cheaper across the board in Philadelphia, PA compared with Raleigh, NC: lower home values, lower rent. Other cost-of-living factors aren't reflected here.
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Sources: U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey; FEMA National Risk Index
Data last updated July 2026.