Knoxville, TN vs Cary, NC: 74 vs 135

$1,116/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 45%

$50,994/yr ↓ 61%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 154%

$214,000 ↓ 59%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 145%

$1,075/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 62%

193,721

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Knoxville, TN and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $505/month cheaper in Knoxville, saving renters about $6,060/year.

Median household income is $78,405/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Knoxville is $214,000 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Knoxville vs Cary — common questions

Is Knoxville or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Knoxville is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Knoxville and Cary?

Median rent in Knoxville is $1,116/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $505/month.

Which city has higher income, Knoxville or Cary?

Median household income is $50,994 in Knoxville and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $78,405/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and North Carolina?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Knoxville or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Knoxville has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,116/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: Knoxville, TN vs Cary, NC (2026)

Knoxville

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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