Cary, NC vs Athens, GA: 135 vs 83

$1,621/mo ↑ 40%

Median Rent

$1,162/mo ↓ 28%

$129,399/yr ↑ 151%

Median Income

$51,655/yr ↓ 60%

$525,200 ↑ 93%

Home Value

$271,800 ↓ 48%

$1,744/mo ↑ 50%

Owner Costs

$1,163/mo ↓ 33%

176,686

Population

126,987

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cary, NC and Athens, GA, the overall cost of living indices are 135 and 83 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $459/month cheaper in Athens, saving renters about $5,508/year.

Median household income is $77,744/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cary is $525,200 compared to $271,800 in Athens.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cary vs Athens — common questions

Is Cary or Athens cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Athens is cheaper to live in with an index of 83 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cary and Athens?

Median rent in Cary is $1,621/month and in Athens it's $1,162/month — a difference of $459/month.

Which city has higher income, Cary or Athens?

Median household income is $129,399 in Cary and $51,655 in Athens. Median household income is $77,744/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Georgia?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Cary or Athens?

It depends on your priorities. Cary has a cost index of 135 with median rent of $1,621/mo, while Athens has a cost index of 83 with rent of $1,162/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Cary, NC vs Athens, GA (2026)

Cary

Athens

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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