Spokane, WA vs Cary, NC: 90 vs 135

$1,141/mo ↓ 30%

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ↑ 42%

$65,745/yr ↓ 49%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 97%

$326,200 ↓ 38%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 61%

$1,213/mo ↓ 30%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 44%

229,228

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Spokane, WA and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 90 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $480/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $5,760/year.

Median household income is $63,654/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Spokane is $326,200 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Spokane vs Cary — common questions

Is Spokane or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Spokane is cheaper to live in with an index of 90 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Spokane and Cary?

Median rent in Spokane is $1,141/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $480/month.

Which city has higher income, Spokane or Cary?

Median household income is $65,745 in Spokane and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $63,654/year higher in Cary.

How do taxes compare between Washington and North Carolina?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Spokane or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Spokane has a cost index of 90 with median rent of $1,141/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: Spokane, WA vs Cary, NC (2026)

Spokane

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons