Lexington, KY vs Cary, NC: 82 vs 135

$1,101/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 47%

$67,631/yr ↓ 48%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 91%

$272,100 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 93%

$1,160/mo ↓ 33%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 50%

321,122

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $520/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $6,240/year.

Median household income is $61,768/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Cary — common questions

Is Lexington or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Cary?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $520/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Cary?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $61,768/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and North Carolina?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/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: Lexington, KY vs Cary, NC (2026)

Lexington

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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