Apex, NC vs. Cary, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Considering a move to the Raleigh suburbs of Apex or Cary? This 2025 cost of living comparison breaks down housing, utilities, groceries and more to help you decide which town fits your lifestyle and budget.
The typical household in Cary spends $400 more per month on housing compared to Apex. Will other expenses make up the difference? Let’s find out.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Apex and Cary. Here’s what you can expect to pay in each city:
| Housing Type | Apex | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,350 | $1,600 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $450,000 | $550,000 |
🏆 Winner: Apex. You’ll save around $300 per month renting in Apex vs Cary, and pay roughly $100,000 less for a comparable home purchase.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are similar between Apex and Cary. The typical household pays:
- Electricity: $120-150/month
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-80/month
- Internet: $50-70/month
Expect higher A/C bills May through September. Both cities offer “time of use” plans to save by shifting usage to off-peak hours.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility costs.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Apex and Cary both have a variety of grocery stores and restaurants at different price points. Expect to spend around $400-500 per month on groceries for a couple.
One notable difference: many Cary neighborhoods have HOA fees that can add $100+ per month. Most Apex communities have lower or no HOA dues.
🏆 Winner: Apex. Lower HOA fees give Apex the slight edge.
4. Taxes and Fees
Apex and Cary have the same 7.25% sales tax rate and similar property taxes around 0.7%. Vehicle taxes and registration fees are also comparable.
If you’re buying a home, budget for 2-3% in closing costs. In Apex, many neighborhoods have lower HOA fees that include lawn care and amenities. Cary HOAs tend to be higher.
🏆 Winner: Apex, thanks to generally lower HOA dues.
5. Cost Summary
| Monthly Expense* | Apex | Cary |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR House) | $1,900 | $2,300 |
| Utilities | $250 | $250 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $600 | $600 |
| Taxes | $600 | $700 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total* | $4,350 | $4,850 |
*Based on gross monthly income for a couple earning the area median income. Actual budgets vary. See our Apex cost of living guide for details.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Apex offers a small-town feel with more space and lower housing costs. It’s great for families who value a short commute and walkable neighborhoods.
Cary is a larger suburb with more shopping, dining and public transit. It attracts professionals and anyone wanting big city amenities with less hustle than Raleigh.
Quick Facts:
- Cary’s population is 2X larger than Apex
- Apex homes typically have 10-20% more square footage than Cary
7. Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Apex more affordable than Cary? Yes, the cost of living is about 10% lower in Apex, mainly due to cheaper housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Apex rent is around $300 cheaper per month than Cary.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Apex homes typically cost $100,000 less than comparable houses in Cary.
8. Conclusion
While Apex has a lower overall cost of living, both Raleigh suburbs offer a high quality of life. Apex is ideal for families and buyers seeking an affordable home with more space. Choose Cary if you want urban convenience and don’t mind paying extra for housing.
Considering other Triangle towns? Check out our Cary cost of living guide and city-by-city comparisons for personalized insights.