Cary, NC vs Santa Clara, CA: 135 vs 307

$1,621/mo ↓ 46%

Median Rent

$2,985/mo ↑ 84%

$129,399/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$173,670/yr ↑ 34%

$525,200 ↓ 66%

Home Value

$1,527,900 ↑ 191%

$1,744/mo ↓ 43%

Owner Costs

$3,051/mo ↑ 75%

176,686

Population

129,239

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cary, NC and Santa Clara, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 135 and 307 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,364/month cheaper in Cary, saving renters about $16,368/year.

Median household income is $44,271/year higher in Santa Clara. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cary is $525,200 compared to $1,527,900 in Santa Clara.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Cary vs Santa Clara — common questions

Is Cary or Santa Clara cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Cary is cheaper to live in with an index of 135 compared to 307 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cary and Santa Clara?

Median rent in Cary is $1,621/month and in Santa Clara it's $2,985/month — a difference of $1,364/month.

Which city has higher income, Cary or Santa Clara?

Median household income is $129,399 in Cary and $173,670 in Santa Clara. Median household income is $44,271/year higher in Santa Clara.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and California?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Cary or Santa Clara?

It depends on your priorities. Cary has a cost index of 135 with median rent of $1,621/mo, while Santa Clara has a cost index of 307 with rent of $2,985/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Cary, NC vs Santa Clara, CA (2026)

Cary

Santa Clara

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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