Montgomery, AL vs Cary, NC: 64 vs 135

$1,059/mo ↓ 35%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 53%

$55,687/yr ↓ 57%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 132%

$148,500 ↓ 72%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 254%

$1,023/mo ↓ 41%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 70%

198,440

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Montgomery, AL and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 64 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $562/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $6,744/year.

Median household income is $73,712/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Montgomery is $148,500 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Cary slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Montgomery vs Cary — common questions

Is Montgomery or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Montgomery and Cary?

Median rent in Montgomery is $1,059/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $562/month.

Which city has higher income, Montgomery or Cary?

Median household income is $55,687 in Montgomery and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $73,712/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Alabama and North Carolina?

Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Montgomery or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with median rent of $1,059/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: Montgomery, AL vs Cary, NC (2026)

Montgomery

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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