Charlotte, NC vs Cary, NC: 108 vs 135

$1,504/mo ↓ 7%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 8%

$78,438/yr ↓ 39%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 65%

$351,500 ↓ 33%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 49%

$1,487/mo ↓ 15%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 17%

886,283

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Charlotte, NC and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 108 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $117/month cheaper in Charlotte, saving renters about $1,404/year.

Median household income is $50,961/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Charlotte is $351,500 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in North Carolina.

Frequently Asked Questions

Charlotte vs Cary — common questions

Is Charlotte or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Charlotte is cheaper to live in with an index of 108 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Charlotte and Cary?

Median rent in Charlotte is $1,504/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $117/month.

Which city has higher income, Charlotte or Cary?

Median household income is $78,438 in Charlotte and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $50,961/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and North Carolina?

Both cities are in North Carolina and share the same state tax rates: 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Charlotte or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Charlotte has a cost index of 108 with median rent of $1,504/mo, while Cary has a cost index of 135 with rent of $1,621/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Charlotte, NC vs Cary, NC (2026)

Charlotte

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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