Cost of Living in Cary, NC
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
184.1
100 = national avg
+84.1 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$81,007
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$191,471
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing209.7
Food148.9
Transportation197.8
Healthcare139.1
Utilities151.3
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$1,596
per month
2 Bedroom
$1,750
per month
The overall cost of living index in Cary is 184.1, which is 84.1% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 209.7. A single adult needs to earn approximately $81,007 per year to cover basic expenses.