Cary, NC vs Raleigh, NC: Cost of Living Comparison
Raleigh has the lower overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Cary | Raleigh | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 139 | 107 | Raleigh |
| Housing | 151 ($1,135) | 109 ($1,028) | Raleigh |
| Transportation | 100 ($3.50) | 102 ($3.50) | Cary |
| Food & groceries | 173 ($709) | 110 ($451) | Raleigh |
| Utilities | 126 ($272) | 105 ($196) | Raleigh |
| Healthcare | 126 ($196) | 105 ($142) | Raleigh |
| 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 Raleigh, NC cheaper to live in?
Raleigh, NC is cheaper overall by about 32 index points (Cary, NC: 139, Raleigh, NC: 107; 100 = US national average).
What salary do I need in Cary, NC vs Raleigh, NC?
A single adult needs roughly $48,650/year in Cary, NC and $37,450/year in Raleigh, NC to cover basic living costs.