Cost of Living in Cary, NC
Population: 176,686 • 2026 Data
$129,399
Median Household Income
+67% vs national
$1,621
Median Monthly Rent
+20% vs national
$525,200
Median Home Value
+55% vs national
3.4%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Cary
The median home value in Cary, NC is $525,200. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,621, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,744.
Rent-to-income ratio: 15.0%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Cary, NC is $129,399. The unemployment rate stands at 3.4%, with a labor force of 96,944 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.