Cary, NC vs New Haven, CT: 135 vs 95

$1,621/mo ↑ 12%

Median Rent

$1,442/mo ↓ 11%

$129,399/yr ↑ 141%

Median Income

$53,771/yr ↓ 58%

$525,200 ↑ 111%

Home Value

$249,000 ↓ 53%

$1,744/mo ↑ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,520/mo ↓ 13%

176,686

Population

132,893

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cary, NC and New Haven, CT, the overall cost of living indices are 135 and 95 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $179/month cheaper in New Haven, saving renters about $2,148/year.

Median household income is $75,628/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cary is $525,200 compared to $249,000 in New Haven.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Cary vs New Haven — common questions

Is Cary or New Haven cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, New Haven is cheaper to live in with an index of 95 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cary and New Haven?

Median rent in Cary is $1,621/month and in New Haven it's $1,442/month — a difference of $179/month.

Which city has higher income, Cary or New Haven?

Median household income is $129,399 in Cary and $53,771 in New Haven. Median household income is $75,628/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Connecticut?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Connecticut has 6.99% income tax, 6.35% sales tax, and 2.15% property tax.

Should I move to Cary or New Haven?

It depends on your priorities. Cary has a cost index of 135 with median rent of $1,621/mo, while New Haven has a cost index of 95 with rent of $1,442/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Cary, NC vs New Haven, CT (2026)

Cary

New Haven

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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