Housing Costs in Cary, NC
Housing is typically the largest expense in a monthly budget. In Cary, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is around $1,850 per month as of 2025. For those looking to purchase a home, the typical mortgage payment for a 3-bedroom house falls in the range of $2,100 to $2,600 per month, depending on the neighborhood and home condition.
It’s important to note that many neighborhoods in Cary have Homeowners Associations (HOAs). While not mandatory, choosing a home in an HOA neighborhood often comes with additional monthly fees ranging from $100 to $300 or more. These fees typically cover community amenities and services like landscaping, pools, fitness centers, and security.
- Median 2BR Apartment Rent: $1,850/month
- Typical 3BR House Mortgage: $2,100 – $2,600/month
- HOA Fees (if applicable): $100 – $300+/month
Utilities and Energy Bills in Cary
Utility costs in Cary are relatively moderate compared to the national average. For a typical 1,000 square foot apartment, residents can expect to pay around $120 per month for electricity, $30 for natural gas, $50 for water and sewer, and $20 for trash collection. These estimates may vary based on usage habits and home size.
It’s worth noting that cooling costs can spike during the hot and humid summer months in Cary. Many residents see their electric bills rise by 20-30% from June through September. Opting for an energy-efficient home or upgrading to a smart thermostat can help manage these seasonal cost fluctuations.
| Utility | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 |
| Natural Gas | $30 |
| Water & Sewer | $50 |
| Trash Collection | $20 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Cary offers a wide variety of grocery stores and supermarkets, from affordable chains to high-end organic markets. On average, a single person can expect to spend around $350 per month on groceries, while a family of four typically spends closer to $1,100.
Dining out is a popular pastime in Cary, with options ranging from casual fast food to upscale restaurants. Allocating $200 to $400 per month for restaurant meals is common for many residents. Don’t forget to budget for household essentials like cleaning supplies, toiletries, and paper goods, which can add another $50 to $100 to your monthly expenses.
Here’s a sample grocery basket with estimated costs:
- Gallon of milk: $3.50
- Loaf of bread: $2.75
- Dozen eggs: $2.50
- Pound of chicken breast: $4.00
Taxes and Hidden Fees in Cary
Cary’s property tax rate is 0.55%, which means homeowners pay $550 annually for every $100,000 of assessed value. For a home valued at $350,000, this equates to $1,925 per year or roughly $160 per month.
North Carolina’s statewide sales tax is 4.75%, but Wake County (which includes Cary) adds an additional 2% for a total of 6.75%. Vehicle owners must also pay an annual vehicle property tax and registration fees, which can range from $50 to $200 depending on the car’s make, model, and value.
| Tax/Fee Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Property Tax | 0.55% |
| Sales Tax | 6.75% |
| Vehicle Property Tax | Varies |
| Vehicle Registration Fee | $50 – $200 annually |
Monthly Budget Summary for Cary
To summarize, here’s a sample monthly budget for various household types living in Cary, NC:
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,200 | $1,850 | $2,400 |
| Utilities | $180 | $220 | $350 |
| Groceries & Dining Out | $500 | $800 | $1,300 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Healthcare | $300 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Other Essentials | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $2,580 | $4,070 | $6,050 |
| Recommended Gross Monthly Income (Pre-Tax) | $3,600 | $5,700 | $8,500 |
Keep in mind these are general estimates and your actual budget may vary based on your specific lifestyle, neighborhood, and spending habits. To live comfortably in Cary, it’s recommended to have a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $3,600 for a single person, $5,700 for a couple, and $8,500 for a family of four.
Lifestyle Considerations in Cary
Cary is known for its excellent quality of life, with a mix of quiet neighborhoods, bustling shopping districts, and ample green space. The average commute time is around 25 minutes, with many residents working in nearby Research Triangle Park or downtown Raleigh.
While housing costs in Cary are higher than some surrounding areas, residents often cite the excellent schools, low crime rates, and convenient access to amenities as reasons for choosing to live here. Newer homes with modern features are common in many neighborhoods, though older, more affordable homes can be found in certain pockets of the city.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Cary’s extensive network of parks, greenways, and sports facilities. The mild climate allows for year-round activities like hiking, biking, and golfing. However, the trade-off for this high quality of life is a higher overall cost of living compared to some other parts of North Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Cary?
A: To live comfortably in Cary, aim for a gross monthly income (pre-tax) of at least $3,600 for a single person, $5,700 for a couple, and $8,500 for a family of four.
Q: Is Cary more expensive than other cities in the Triangle area?
A: Yes, Cary tends to have a higher cost of living than some neighboring cities like Durham or Apex, primarily due to higher housing costs and property taxes.
Q: Are there affordable neighborhoods in Cary?
A: While Cary is known for its high-end neighborhoods, there are still affordable options, particularly in older parts of the city or in apartment complexes.
Q: How much should I budget for utilities in Cary?
A: Expect to spend around $180 per month on utilities for a single person, $220 for a couple, and $350 for a family of four, on average.
Q: What is the sales tax rate in Cary?
A: The total sales tax rate in Cary is 6.75%, which includes the statewide rate of 4.75% plus an additional 2% for Wake County.
Q: Are there ways to save money on housing costs in Cary?
A: Consider living in an apartment or older home, choosing a neighborhood without HOA fees, or finding a roommate to split costs. You may also find more affordable options in nearby towns like Apex or Morrisville.
Q: What is the job market like in Cary?
A: Cary has a strong job market, with major employers in technology, healthcare, and education sectors. Many residents also commute to nearby Research Triangle Park or Raleigh for work.
Q: How do transportation costs in Cary compare to other cities?
A: Transportation costs in Cary are similar to other suburban areas, with most residents relying on personal vehicles. However, the compact size of the city and growing network of bike lanes and greenways make biking and walking viable options for some errands.