Phoenix, AZ vs Cary, NC: 109 vs 135

$1,458/mo ↓ 10%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 11%

$77,041/yr ↓ 40%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 68%

$381,900 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 38%

$1,430/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 22%

1,624,832

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $163/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $1,956/year.

Median household income is $52,358/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Cary — common questions

Is Phoenix or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Phoenix is cheaper to live in with an index of 109 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Cary?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $163/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Cary?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $52,358/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and North Carolina?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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: Phoenix, AZ vs Cary, NC (2026)

Phoenix

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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