Chapel Hill, NC vs. Apex, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Chapel Hill vs Apex. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Chapel Hill vs Apex in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and mortgage costs compare between Chapel Hill and Apex:
| Housing Type | Chapel Hill | Apex |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $550,000 | $475,000 |
🏆 Winner: Apex. Housing costs tend to be 10-15% lower in Apex compared to Chapel Hill.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another key monthly expense. In Chapel Hill, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are similar in Apex, averaging $175 monthly.
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Summer electric bills may climb $30-50 higher than winter due to A/C use.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are nearly identical between Chapel Hill and Apex.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries, dining out, and everyday purchases are slightly cheaper in Apex vs Chapel Hill. Budget around $400 per month for groceries for a couple in Apex, compared to $450 in Chapel Hill.
A meal at a mid-range restaurant runs about $60 for two in Apex, vs $70 in Chapel Hill. However, both cities offer a wide range of food options and price points.
🏆 Winner: Apex. Expect grocery and dining costs to be around 10% lower than Chapel Hill.
4. Taxes and Fees
Chapel Hill’s property tax rate is 0.54%, while Apex’s is 0.38%. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of $640 per year.
In Chapel Hill, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $100-300 monthly. Apex HOAs are similar, typically $90-250 per month.
🏆 Winner: Apex. Lower property taxes can add up to substantial yearly savings.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Expense | Chapel Hill | Apex |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR home) | $2,750 | $2,375 |
| Utilities | $180 | $175 |
| Groceries | $450 | $400 |
| Transportation | $300 | $275 |
| Taxes (0.54% vs 0.38%) | $248 | $174 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,428 | $3,899 |
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed as gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Apex offers savings, Chapel Hill has its perks. It’s more walkable, with a vibrant downtown. Traffic and noise are moderate trade-offs.
Apex is quieter and more spacious, ideal for families craving suburbs. But commutes to the Research Triangle may be longer.
Apex averages 2°F warmer than Chapel Hill year-round. Both get moderate seasons and occasional winter snow.
7. FAQ
- Is Chapel Hill more affordable than Apex? No, Apex is generally 10-15% cheaper than Chapel Hill across major expenses like housing, food, and taxes.
- Which city has lower rent? Apex rents run about $200 less per month than comparable apartments in Chapel Hill.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Apex. The median price for a 3BR is $475,000 in Apex vs $550,000 in Chapel Hill.
8. Conclusion
For those prioritizing savings, Apex offers better value and lower key costs than Chapel Hill. Families or remote workers may prefer its quiet suburban feel.
However, Chapel Hill’s walkability, culture, and proximity to universities may be worth the premium for some. Professionals who value a quick commute or vibrant downtown should crunch the numbers on Chapel Hill.
Wherever you land, understanding the full cost of living in Chapel Hill or Apex is key to budgeting. Our monthly budget examples for Chapel Hill residents can help you plan for either city.