The capital of North Carolina and one half of the the Raleigh-Durham metroplex, Raleigh offers access to amenities and employment opportunities not found in other parts of the state. The local economy has long been on the cutting edge, with thriving science and technology jobs — thanks to the city’s location in the Research Triangle Park — and a growing community of entrepreneurs in the city; in fact, Forbes magazine has consistently placed Raleigh high on its list of best places for businesses and careers. A thriving downtown district complete with a variety of apartments and a vibrant arts scene makes Raleigh popular with students and professionals as well as families.
Located only a couple of hours from the mountains and the ocean, Raleigh is a centrally located city that has been experiencing a population boom for the past decade. Dubbed the "Smithsonian of the South," Raleigh offers more than 40 free attractions and museums to keep you steeped in culture. There are museums of art, history, and technology, plus a children’s museum for younger patrons. The Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts is a massive multi-stage venue that hosts the North Carolina Symphony, the Carolina Ballet, and a variety of other productions throughout the year.
The North Carolina Governor's Mansion was built in 1883
The evening cityscape
An aerial view of Raleigh
As of April 2025, the average apartment rent in Raleigh, NC is $1,288 for a studio, $1,396 for one bedroom, $1,633 for two bedrooms, and $1,939 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Raleigh has decreased by -1.1% in the past year.
The cost of living in Raleigh, NC is 1.9% lower than the national average. Generally, housing in Raleigh is 4.7% less expensive than the national average, with rent falling between $1,288 - $1,939. You can expect to pay 0.7% more for groceries, 6.1% less for utilities, and 7.6% less for transportation.
While finding a Raleigh rental close to all the excitement can be expensive, it is possible to work, play, and rent at a reasonable price. We’ve compiled a list to help you experience Raleigh’s best without breaking the bank.
Somewhat Walkable
out of 100 WalkScore® Rating
You might be able to get out and walk when living in this area. Some errands can be accomplished on foot, but for others you’ll need a car.
Some Transit
out of 100 TransitScore® Rating
You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.
Somewhat Bikeable
out of 100 BikeScore® Rating
You might be able to find places to ride your bike in this area, but you’ll most likely want your car for most errands.
Public
Grades PK-5
542 Students
Public
Grades PK-5
487 Students
Public
Grades PK-5
516 Students
Public
Grades K-5
268 Students
Abbott's Creek Elementary School
Public
Grades PK-5
801 Students
Wake Young Men's Leadership Academy
Public
Grades 6-12
269 Students
Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy
Public
Grades 6-12
350 Students
Public
Grades 6-8
850 Students
Public
Grades 6-8
1,076 Students
Public
Grades 6-8
844 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
336 Students
Wake Young Men's Leadership Academy
Public
Grades 6-12
269 Students
Wake Young Women's Leadership Academy
Public
Grades 6-12
350 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
2,502 Students
Public
Grades 9-12
2,613 Students
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† Our analysis of utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, home prices, and other goods and services is sourced from the Cost of Living Index, a respected benchmark published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) that provides a thorough overview of living expenses across different regions.
Rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As the industry leader in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar conducts extensive research to produce and maintain a comprehensive database of commercial real estate information. We combine this data with public record to provide the most up-to-date rental information available.
Consumer goods, services, and home prices are sourced from the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). The data on this page is updated quarterly. It was last published in February 2025.
