22. Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh ranks 23rd among the most expensive U.S. cities, and living comfortably here requires an estimated $102,752 annual salary for a single adult. The city’s rapid economic expansion and excellent school systems have made it one of the fastest-growing destinations in the Southeast.
This growth has transformed Raleigh’s housing market. Previously affordable neighborhoods have seen price surges, while high-end communities with luxury amenities have steadily climbed into the top tier of North Carolina’s most expensive places to live.
Raleigh blends upscale living with a distinctly Southern appeal. Residents enjoy modern conveniences and urban energy without sacrificing the slower, community-oriented charm North Carolina is known for. As demand intensifies, prestigious neighborhoods attract buyers seeking status, comfort, and long-term investment potential.
At the center of Raleigh’s costs is housing. Property values throughout the metro have risen consistently, driven by strong job opportunities in technology, healthcare, and research. With continued interest from both companies and newcomers, real estate prices show no signs of slowing down.
