Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
37% cheaper
Raleigh is 37% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $47,222 in Raleigh.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · North Carolina salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Raleigh sits at 107 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $370,000 in Raleigh, a difference of $170,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,500 in Raleigh.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jersey City scores 105 while Raleigh scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are lower than Raleigh (108).
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $67,266 in Raleigh. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Raleigh.
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