Tempe, AZ vs Cary, NC: 120 vs 135

$1,623/mo ≈ Same

Median Rent

$1,621/mo ≈ Same

$77,643/yr ↓ 40%

Median Income

$129,399/yr ↑ 67%

$421,900 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$525,200 ↑ 24%

$1,554/mo ↓ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,744/mo ↑ 12%

186,419

Population

176,686

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tempe, AZ and Cary, NC, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 135 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $51,756/year higher in Cary. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tempe is $421,900 compared to $525,200 in Cary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tempe vs Cary — common questions

Is Tempe or Cary cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Tempe is cheaper to live in with an index of 120 compared to 135 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tempe and Cary?

Median rent in Tempe is $1,623/month and in Cary it's $1,621/month — a difference of $2/month.

Which city has higher income, Tempe or Cary?

Median household income is $77,643 in Tempe and $129,399 in Cary. Median household income is $51,756/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 Tempe or Cary?

It depends on your priorities. Tempe has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,623/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: Tempe, AZ vs Cary, NC (2026)

Tempe

Cary

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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