Plano, TX vs Cary, NC: 132 vs 135

$1,792/mo ↑ 11%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↓ 10%

$108,649/yr ↓ 16%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 19%

$440,600 ↓ 16%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 19%

$1,829/mo ↑ 5%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↓ 5%

287,339

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Plano, TX and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 132 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $171/month cheaper in Cary, saving renters about $2,052/year.

Median household income is $20,750/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Plano is $440,600 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Plano vs Cary — common questions

Is Plano or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Plano is cheaper to live in with an index of 132 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Plano and Cary?

Median rent in Plano is $1,792/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $171/month.

Which city has higher income, Plano or Cary?

Median household income is $108,649 in Plano and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $20,750/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Texas and North Carolina?

Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Plano or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Plano has a cost index of 132 with median rent of $1,792/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: Plano, TX vs Cary, NC (2026)

Plano

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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