A new type of relative rigidity expression of pile- raft foundation is proposed using pile- raft foundation's simplified analytic method with interaction taken into account, it is analyzed that the effect of pile-raft foundation's relative rigidity on settlement of the raft, internal forces and reaction distribution of pile head; the relationship between the relative rigidity and length/width ratio of the raft is also researched. A rational formula of the raft thickness is put forward according to giving full play to the bearing capacity of the piles. Finally the rationality of the formula and the feasibility of engineering use are verified by two examples.