Huntsville, AL vs Cary, NC: 78 vs 135

$1,078/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 50%

$70,778/yr ↓ 45%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 83%

$263,100 ↓ 50%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 100%

$1,046/mo ↓ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 67%

218,814

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Huntsville, AL and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 78 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $543/month cheaper in Huntsville, saving renters about $6,516/year.

Median household income is $58,621/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Huntsville is $263,100 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Huntsville vs Cary — common questions

Is Huntsville or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Huntsville is cheaper to live in with an index of 78 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Huntsville and Cary?

Median rent in Huntsville is $1,078/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $543/month.

Which city has higher income, Huntsville or Cary?

Median household income is $70,778 in Huntsville and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $58,621/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and North Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Huntsville or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Huntsville has a cost index of 78 with median rent of $1,078/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: Huntsville, AL vs Cary, NC (2026)

Huntsville

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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