Cleveland, OH vs Cary, NC: 51 vs 135

$894/mo ↓ 45%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 81%

$39,187/yr ↓ 70%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 230%

$94,100 ↓ 82%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 458%

$866/mo ↓ 50%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 101%

367,523

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Cleveland, OH and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 51 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $727/month cheaper in Cleveland, saving renters about $8,724/year.

Median household income is $90,212/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Cleveland is $94,100 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Cleveland slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cleveland vs Cary — common questions

Is Cleveland or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Cleveland is cheaper to live in with an index of 51 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Cleveland and Cary?

Median rent in Cleveland is $894/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $727/month.

Which city has higher income, Cleveland or Cary?

Median household income is $39,187 in Cleveland and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $90,212/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Ohio and North Carolina?

Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Cleveland or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Cleveland has a cost index of 51 with median rent of $894/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: Cleveland, OH vs Cary, NC (2026)

Cleveland

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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