Philadelphia, PA vs Cary, NC: 85 vs 135

$1,323/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 23%

$60,698/yr ↓ 53%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 113%

$232,400 ↓ 56%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 126%

$1,233/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 41%

1,582,432

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $298/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $3,576/year.

Median household income is $68,701/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Cary — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Cary?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $298/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Cary?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $68,701/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and North Carolina?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/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: Philadelphia, PA vs Cary, NC (2026)

Philadelphia

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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