Fresno, CA vs Cary, NC: 101 vs 135

$1,324/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 22%

$66,804/yr ↓ 48%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 94%

$348,500 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 51%

$1,391/mo ↓ 20%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 25%

543,615

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Fresno, CA and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 101 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $297/month cheaper in Fresno, saving renters about $3,564/year.

Median household income is $62,595/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Fresno is $348,500 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Fresno vs Cary — common questions

Is Fresno or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Fresno is cheaper to live in with an index of 101 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Fresno and Cary?

Median rent in Fresno is $1,324/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $297/month.

Which city has higher income, Fresno or Cary?

Median household income is $66,804 in Fresno and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $62,595/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between California and North Carolina?

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

Should I move to Fresno or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Fresno has a cost index of 101 with median rent of $1,324/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: Fresno, CA vs Cary, NC (2026)

Fresno

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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