Charlotte, NC vs Plano, TX: 108 vs 132

$1,504/mo ↓ 16%

Median Rent

$1,792/mo ↑ 19%

$78,438/yr ↓ 28%

Median Income

$108,649/yr ↑ 39%

$351,500 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$440,600 ↑ 25%

$1,487/mo ↓ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,829/mo ↑ 23%

886,283

Population

287,339

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Charlotte, NC and Plano, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 108 and 132 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $288/month cheaper in Charlotte, saving renters about $3,456/year.

Median household income is $30,211/year higher in Plano. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Charlotte is $351,500 compared to $440,600 in Plano.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Charlotte vs Plano — common questions

Is Charlotte or Plano cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Charlotte is cheaper to live in with an index of 108 compared to 132 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Charlotte and Plano?

Median rent in Charlotte is $1,504/month and in Plano it's $1,792/month — a difference of $288/month.

Which city has higher income, Charlotte or Plano?

Median household income is $78,438 in Charlotte and $108,649 in Plano. Median household income is $30,211/year higher in Plano.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Texas?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Charlotte or Plano?

It depends on your priorities. Charlotte has a cost index of 108 with median rent of $1,504/mo, while Plano has a cost index of 132 with rent of $1,792/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Charlotte, NC vs Plano, TX (2026)

Charlotte

Plano

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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