Durham, NC vs. Raleigh, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Research Triangle area of North Carolina? Let’s break down the key cost differences between two of the region’s most popular cities in 2025:
- 🏘️ Median rent for a 2BR apartment: $1,450 in Durham vs. $1,600 in Raleigh
- ⚡ Average monthly energy bill: $140 in Durham vs. $155 in Raleigh
- 🛒 Groceries for a family of 4: $850/month in Durham vs. $900/month in Raleigh
- 💸 Sales tax rate: 7.5% in Durham County vs. 7.25% in Wake County (Raleigh)
For families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living between Durham and Raleigh in 2025, we’ll dive into the details to help you decide which city best fits your lifestyle and budget.
1. Housing Costs
One of the biggest factors in the cost of living is housing. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare for Durham vs. Raleigh:
| Housing Type | Durham | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Median rent for 2BR apartment | $1,450 | $1,600 |
| Median rent for 3BR house | $1,900 | $2,100 |
| Median home price | $350,000 | $400,000 |
🏆 Winner: Durham. Housing costs an estimated 10-15% less in Durham compared to Raleigh, a savings of $150-200 per month in rent for a typical apartment.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs also play a big role in monthly expenses. In Durham, expect to pay around $140/month for electricity for an average-sized apartment, with costs rising to $180-$200/month during peak summer months. Water and sewer fees add another $60-80/month.
In Raleigh, energy bills typically run about 10% higher, averaging $155/month and spiking over $200 in the hottest and coldest months. Both cities offer optional programs like off-peak rates and level billing to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: Durham edges out Raleigh on utility costs, but the difference is minor, just $15-20/month for a typical household.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, expect to spend around $850 per month on groceries in Durham. Prices for staples like milk ($3.50/gallon), bread ($2.75/loaf), and eggs ($2.25/dozen) are on par with the national average.
In Raleigh, grocery costs run about 5% higher overall, totaling $900/month for a comparable food budget. Eating out is also pricier, with dinner for two at a mid-range Raleigh restaurant averaging $60 vs. $50 in Durham.
🏆 Winner: Durham takes the lead again, offering savings of $50+/month on food for a typical household.
4. Taxes and Fees
Both Durham and Raleigh assess property taxes based on home value. In Durham County, the 2025 property tax rate is 0.7% ($2,450/year for a $350K home), while Raleigh’s Wake County charges a rate of 0.65% ($2,600/year for a $400K home).
Sales tax is 7.5% in Durham and 7.25% in Raleigh as of 2025. For big ticket items, it’s worth considering this difference – an extra $25 in tax on a $1000 purchase.
Both cities charge similar fees for utilities, parking, and city services. In Durham, HOA fees often include extras like landscaping and trash, while Raleigh neighborhoods are more likely to leave those up to the homeowner.
🏆 Winner: It’s a toss-up. Raleigh has a lower property tax rate, but Durham’s lower home values and sales tax give it the overall edge for most households.
5. Cost of Living Comparison Summary
| Category | Durham | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,450 | $1,600 |
| Utilities | $200 | $220 |
| Groceries | $850 | $900 |
| Transportation | $60 | $80 |
| Taxes (0.7% vs 0.65% property tax) | $205 | $215 |
| Miscellaneous | $250 | $275 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,015 | $3,290 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Of course, cost is just one factor in choosing where to live. Consider other tradeoffs between Durham and Raleigh:
- 🚗 Commute: Raleigh has more public transportation and centralized jobs, while Durham offers an easier drive for RTP workers.
- 🌳 Space: Your housing budget goes further in Durham, with more affordable single-family homes and yards.
- 🌆 Vibe: Durham has a diverse, eclectic feel, while Raleigh offers more polished new construction and upscale amenities.
Weigh what matters most to you. A couple moving from Raleigh to Durham could save $300+/month on living costs, but may prefer Raleigh’s faster pace and trendier reputation.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Durham more affordable than Raleigh?
Yes, the cost of living in Durham is an estimated 10% lower than Raleigh as of 2025. Housing, food, and transportation costs are all cheaper in Durham.
Which city has lower rent?
Durham rent averages 10-15% less than Raleigh. Expect to pay $1,450/month for a 2BR apartment in Durham compared to $1,600/month in Raleigh.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Durham. The median home price in Durham is $350,000 in 2025 vs. $400,000 in Raleigh, a difference of $50,000 for a comparable home.
8. The Bottom Line
While both Durham and Raleigh offer a high quality of life, Durham comes out ahead on affordability in 2025. Cheaper housing, food, and transportation could save a typical family $275 per month living in Durham over Raleigh.
However, Raleigh’s extra amenities, stronger job market, and more modern feel still make it the perfect fit for some. Weigh the tradeoffs for your lifestyle and budget to decide which Triangle city is right for you.
Comparing other NC cities? Check out our full guide to the monthly cost of living in Durham or our breakdown of Raleigh living costs in 2025.