Chicago, IL vs Cary, NC: 100 vs 135

$1,380/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 17%

$75,134/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 72%

$315,200 ↓ 40%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 67%

$1,502/mo ↓ 14%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 16%

2,707,648

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chicago, IL and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $241/month cheaper in Chicago, saving renters about $2,892/year.

Median household income is $54,265/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chicago is $315,200 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago vs Cary — common questions

Is Chicago or Cary cheaper to live in?

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

What is the rent difference between Chicago and Cary?

Median rent in Chicago is $1,380/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $241/month.

Which city has higher income, Chicago or Cary?

Median household income is $75,134 in Chicago and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $54,265/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and North Carolina?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Chicago or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Chicago has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,380/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: Chicago, IL vs Cary, NC (2026)

Chicago

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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