Holly Springs vs Apex, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Holly Springs, NC vs. Apex, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)

Considering a move to the Raleigh suburbs of Holly Springs or Apex? This cost of living comparison will help you decide which town best fits your lifestyle and budget in 2025. We’ll break down the key factors, from housing and utilities to groceries and taxes.

A small, simply furnished living room in Holly Springs, NC with a couch, bookshelf, and window — A tidy, affordable living room in Holly Springs reflects the town’s lower housing costs compared to nearby Apex.

Housing Costs

Housing is often the biggest factor in the cost of living in Holly Springs, NC and Apex. Here’s how typical rental and purchase prices compare:

Housing Type	Holly Springs	Apex
2BR Apartment Rent	$1,450	$1,550
3BR Home Price	$450,000	$475,000

🏆 Winner: Holly Springs. You’ll typically pay about $100 less per month in rent and $25,000 less to purchase a home compared to Apex.

Utilities and Energy Costs

Utility costs are fairly similar between the two towns. Expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity, water, and gas in a 2BR apartment. Larger homes may see bills closer to $250-300, especially in summer when AC usage peaks.

🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility costs.

Groceries and Daily Expenses

A neighborhood park in Apex, NC with trimmed hedges, a walking path, and a bench — An inviting park in a residential area of Apex highlights the town’s family-friendly suburban appeal, which comes at a slightly higher cost than Holly Springs.

Groceries, gas, and other daily costs are comparable in Holly Springs and Apex. Budget about $400-500 per month for food for a couple. Restaurants are similarly priced, with most casual meals running $12-18 per person.

🏆 Winner: Tie. Everyday expenses are neck and neck.

Taxes and Fees

Both towns have a property tax rate around 0.35%. Holly Springs has slightly lower water and sewer fees. HOA dues range from $50-300 per month in both places, with more affordable options in Holly Springs.

🏆 Winner: Holly Springs. Lower city fees and HOA dues give it the edge.

Cost Summary

Category	Holly Springs	Apex
Housing (2BR rent)	$1,450	$1,550
Utilities	$175	$175
Groceries	$450	$450
Transportation	$75	$75
Taxes & Fees	$125	$150
Misc	$300	$300
Estimated Monthly Total	$2,575	$2,700

Note: All income figures are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax). Adjust for your effective tax rate.

Lifestyle Fit

Cost is just one factor in choosing between Holly Springs and Apex. Also consider:

Holly Springs offers more affordable housing and a quaint downtown
Apex has a livelier (but pricier) downtown with more dining and shopping
Apex averages 5 minutes longer for commutes into Raleigh and RTP

FAQ

Is Holly Springs more affordable than Apex?
Yes, the cost of living in Holly Springs is about 5% lower than Apex, mainly due to cheaper housing.

Which city has lower rent?
Holly Springs has lower rent, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $100 less per month than in Apex.

Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Holly Springs has lower home prices. Expect to pay around $25,000 less for a 3BR house compared to Apex.

The Bottom Line

While the average monthly expenses in Holly Springs, NC are a bit lower than Apex, both Raleigh suburbs offer a high quality of life. Budget-conscious renters and buyers will find more affordable options in Holly Springs, while those prioritizing dining and amenities may prefer pricier Apex. Compare other Raleigh suburbs in our cost of living series.