Jacksonville, FL vs Cary, NC: 92 vs 135

$1,375/mo ↓ 15%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 18%

$66,981/yr ↓ 48%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 93%

$266,100 ↓ 49%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 97%

$1,324/mo ↓ 24%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 32%

961,739

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Jacksonville, FL and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 92 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $246/month cheaper in Jacksonville, saving renters about $2,952/year.

Median household income is $62,418/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Jacksonville is $266,100 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Jacksonville vs Cary — common questions

Is Jacksonville or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Jacksonville is cheaper to live in with an index of 92 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Jacksonville and Cary?

Median rent in Jacksonville is $1,375/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $246/month.

Which city has higher income, Jacksonville or Cary?

Median household income is $66,981 in Jacksonville and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $62,418/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Florida and North Carolina?

Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Jacksonville or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Jacksonville has a cost index of 92 with median rent of $1,375/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: Jacksonville, FL vs Cary, NC (2026)

Jacksonville

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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