Irving, TX vs Cary, NC: 102 vs 135

$1,517/mo ↓ 6%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 7%

$79,641/yr ↓ 38%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 62%

$287,300 ↓ 45%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 83%

$1,521/mo ↓ 13%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 15%

255,036

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Irving, TX and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 102 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $104/month cheaper in Irving, saving renters about $1,248/year.

Median household income is $49,758/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Irving is $287,300 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Irving vs Cary — common questions

Is Irving or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Irving is cheaper to live in with an index of 102 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Irving and Cary?

Median rent in Irving is $1,517/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $104/month.

Which city has higher income, Irving or Cary?

Median household income is $79,641 in Irving and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $49,758/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Texas and North Carolina?

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

Should I move to Irving or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Irving has a cost index of 102 with median rent of $1,517/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: Irving, TX vs Cary, NC (2026)

Irving

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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