Memphis, TN vs Cary, NC: 68 vs 135

$1,123/mo ↓ 31%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 44%

$51,211/yr ↓ 60%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 153%

$157,100 ↓ 70%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 234%

$1,087/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 60%

629,063

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Memphis, TN and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 68 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $498/month cheaper in Memphis, saving renters about $5,976/year.

Median household income is $78,188/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Memphis is $157,100 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Memphis vs Cary — common questions

Is Memphis or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Memphis is cheaper to live in with an index of 68 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Memphis and Cary?

Median rent in Memphis is $1,123/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $498/month.

Which city has higher income, Memphis or Cary?

Median household income is $51,211 in Memphis and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $78,188/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 Memphis or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Memphis has a cost index of 68 with median rent of $1,123/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: Memphis, TN vs Cary, NC (2026)

Memphis

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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