Raleigh-Cary vs Salem
Fair Market Rent Comparison — HUD 2025 Data
Quick Answer
Raleigh-Cary is 4% cheaper for renters. A 2-bedroom rents for $1,097/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem — saving $480/year.
Rent by Unit Size
| Unit Size | Raleigh-Cary | Salem | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $760 | $741 | $19 |
| 1 Bedroom | $928 | $913 | $15 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,097 | $1,137 | $40 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,435 | $1,411 | $24 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,556 | $1,615 | $59 |
| Median Income | $70,678 | $53,953 | $16,725 |
Raleigh-Cary
- Studio
- $760/mo
- 1 BR
- $928/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,097/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,435/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,556/mo
- Median Income
- $70,678/yr
Salem
- Studio
- $741/mo
- 1 BR
- $913/mo
- 2 BR
- $1,137/mo
- 3 BR
- $1,411/mo
- 4 BR
- $1,615/mo
- Median Income
- $53,953/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raleigh-Cary or Salem cheaper to rent in?
Raleigh-Cary is cheaper — a 2-bedroom Fair Market Rent is $1,097/mo vs $1,137/mo in Salem. That's $40/mo or $480/year more expensive in Salem (4% higher).
What is the 2-bedroom rent in Raleigh-Cary vs Salem?
The HUD Fair Market Rent for a 2-bedroom in Raleigh-Cary is $1,097/month. In Salem, a 2-bedroom FMR is $1,137/month.
How do incomes compare between Raleigh-Cary and Salem?
The median household income in Raleigh-Cary is $70,678/year. In Salem it is $53,953/year. Raleigh-Cary has the higher median income.
What is the studio rent in Raleigh-Cary vs Salem?
A studio apartment Fair Market Rent in Raleigh-Cary is $760/mo. In Salem it is $741/mo.