Cary, NC
Why You’ll Love Living in Cary, North Carolina
In the geographic center of North Carolina is Cary, a growing town that is attracting residents with its central location, good schools and flourishing research and technology sector. The League of American Bicyclists recognizes Cary as a bicycle-friendly community, and residents have access to multiple parks and walking trails. More than two-thirds of adults have a college degree, and the town is less than 15 minutes from major universities like Duke, North Carolina State and the University of North Carolina.
Thinking of moving to Cary, NC? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Cary, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Cary, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Cary, NC, a Best Place to Live in 2024
An easy commute to Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill is part of what makes Cary, NC, such a desirable place to move. In fact, it’s one of the best places to live in the U.S. due to its central location and its reputation for quality public schools, safe streets, a lively arts scene, dynamic restaurants (more than 200 and growing!) and a robust job market.
The city of nearly 180,000, located between North Carolina’s mountains in the west and the beaches in the east, is a perfect place for those working in Research Triangle Park — the largest research park in the country — and for entrepreneurs launching new businesses. Cary has several flourishing industry sectors, including clean technology, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and information technology.
Plus, Cary is affordable, boasting the amenities of a much larger city but with a lower price tag. The charming neighborhoods are certainly a draw, as are the greenways and parks, arts venues, breweries, and exciting sporting events. Baseball fans love to watch teams at the USA Baseball National Training Complex, and professional soccer fans delight to see the North Carolina Football Club and the North Carolina Courage soccer players take the field. And speaking of visual treats, shows and festivals at the Koka Booth Amphitheater, next to Symphony Lake, are a must-do on the weekends.
Cary, NC Quality of Life LivScore
Cary, NC Top Categories
Health
Education
Economy
Cary ranks highest for health, education and economy.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Cary, NC
Cary residents enjoy mild winters and hot, humid summers. Winter temperatures average highs of 58°F, and the coldest month of the year is January, with an average low of 33°F and high of 51°F. Summers average daily temperatures above 81°F, with July being the warmest month.
The average snowfall in Cary is minimal at just 6 inches annually.
The average annual rainfall in Cary is 46 inches. Typically, August is the wettest month, and April is the driest.
Cary averages 216 sunny days a year.
Outdoor enthusiasts have their pick of activities. Hike the Company Mill Trail through wooded Umstead State Park, enjoy a day fishing on the lake at Fred G. Bond Metro Park or take in a show at the outdoor Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Kayaking, mountain biking and ropes courses are also popular.
Things To Do in Cary, NC
Want to enjoy a night on the water? Take in Band, Bites and Boats at Bond Park’s boathouse. This free concert series also offers local food vendors and the option to enjoy the music while out on the lake.
A unique experience that families love to enjoy in the winter is the annual North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival. Walk along this half-mile loop filled with huge LED lantern displays created in China. There are also Chinese acrobat performances that will amaze the kids!
The baked goods at La Farm Bakery are melt-in-your-mouth good. The bakery’s authentic goods give residents the feeling they are in France.
The lucky locals in Cary have many choices when it comes to shopping. Many young families and creatives enjoy the historic charm of Downtown Cary with its myriad boutique stores and local businesses, while the Cary Farmers Market is a must for anyone shopping for local goods and produce.
Herons at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary is hands-down one of the best dinner destinations in the city. A serene atmosphere is paired with upscale dining, and everything on this contemporary American menu is guaranteed to be a home run. Herons has a reputation for featuring locally sourced ingredients, making it especially appealing to anyone keen on indulging in localism.
Tucked within Symphony Lake Park, Koka Booth Amphitheatre is an outdoor venue that hosts concerts, cultural performances, festivals and more. It’s the perfect place to take a date for a night of music under the stars, but it’s equally fun to go with kids or friends.
There are many dog-friendly bars, restaurants and shops here, including BottleDog Bites & Brews, a hybrid taproom and bottle shop specializing in “BottleDogs,” aka hot dogs wrapped in bacon! Dogs love hanging out on the patio here.
The Local and State Economy in Cary, NC
Key industries in Cary include technology, health care and education. Because of Cary’s proximity to the Research Triangle, several technology companies have established themselves in the city.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Cary is 7.25%.
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax.
WakeMed Cary Hospital is the largest health care provider in Cary and is an acute care hospital offering services such as emergency care, heart and vascular care, and orthopedics.
Wake Technical Community College is in Cary.
Weather in Cary, NC
Average Temperatures
71 high / 49 low
Average Annual Rainfall
46 in
Average Annual Snowfall
6 in
Quick Facts about Cary, North Carolina
- Median Home Value
- $434,151
- Median Property Tax
- $4,008
- Total Population
- 179,000
- Average Commute
- 21 min
- Median Household Income
- $127,724
- Median Monthly Rent
- $1,242
Map of Cary, NC
Cary, NC: Where to Live Now
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