Cary, NC vs Kent, WA: 135 vs 145

$1,621/mo ↓ 12%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 13%

$129,399/yr ↑ 43%

Median Income

$90,416/yr ↓ 30%

$525,200 ↓ 2%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 2%

$1,744/mo ↓ 9%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 10%

176,686

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cary, NC and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 135 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $212/month cheaper in Cary, saving renters about $2,544/year.

Median household income is $38,983/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cary is $525,200 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over North Carolina's 4.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cary vs Kent — common questions

Is Cary or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Cary is cheaper to live in with an index of 135 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cary and Kent?

Median rent in Cary is $1,621/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $212/month.

Which city has higher income, Cary or Kent?

Median household income is $129,399 in Cary and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $38,983/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Washington?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Cary or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Cary has a cost index of 135 with median rent of $1,621/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Cary, NC vs Kent, WA (2026)

Cary

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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