Providence, RI vs Cary, NC: 99 vs 135

$1,333/mo ↓ 18%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 22%

$66,772/yr ↓ 48%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 94%

$322,800 ↓ 39%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 63%

$1,467/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 19%

190,214

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $288/month cheaper in Providence, saving renters about $3,456/year.

Median household income is $62,627/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Cary — common questions

Is Providence or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Providence is cheaper to live in with an index of 99 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Cary?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $288/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Cary?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $62,627/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and North Carolina?

Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Providence or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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: Providence, RI vs Cary, NC (2026)

Providence

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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