Cary, NC vs Durham, NC: Cost of Living Comparison
Durham has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Cary | Durham | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 139 | 102 | Durham |
| Housing | 151 ($1,135) | 102 ($988) | Durham |
| Transportation | 100 ($3.50) | 101 ($3.50) | Cary |
| Food & groceries | 173 ($709) | 106 ($435) | Durham |
| Utilities | 126 ($272) | 101 ($184) | Durham |
| Healthcare | 126 ($196) | 101 ($133) | Durham |
| Median annual wage | 99 ($47,970) | 99 ($47,970) | Tie |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cary, NC or Durham, NC cheaper to live in?
Durham, NC is cheaper overall by about 37 index points (Cary, NC: 139, Durham, NC: 102; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Cary, NC vs Durham, NC?
A single adult needs roughly $48,650/year in Cary, NC and $35,700/year in Durham, NC to cover basic living costs.