Downtown Cary NC

Courtesy of VisitNC.com/Photographer Jared Kay

Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Sponsored by: eXp RealtyeXp Realty

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

Cary, NC is the #44 Best City to Live in the USA

Downtown Cary NC
Courtesy of VisitNC.com/Photographer Jared Kay
Cary, NC
Quality of Life
Liv Score

622
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 57
Demographics 59
Economy 81
Education 63
Health 56
Housing 56
Infrastructure 60
Amenities 34

Why Cary is one of the best cities to live in

Less than 20 minutes from downtown Raleigh, Cary, NC, offers all the good things that come from living in a small town (friendly folks and lovely neighborhoods), yet a surprisingly long list of amenities. This flourishing city of more than 177,000 offers a fantastic arts scene (gorgeous public art, galleries and more), a variety of eateries, must-visit breweries and great sporting events. In addition, Cary is home to the USA Baseball National Training Complex. Plus, career opportunities run the gamut in Cary, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. Here, residents can choose a job within one of the city’s many thriving sectors – advanced manufacturing, clean technology, information technology, and life sciences. And Cary boasts excellent K-12 public and private options, like the Wake County Public School System and Cary Academy. One other thing to note: The North Carolina Symphony hosts concerts during the summer at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre

What are Carys major industries and employers?

Key industries include advanced manufacturing, clean technology, information technology and life sciences. A few major employers include SAS, MetLife, Verizon and Affiliated Computer Services. 

What are the major colleges and universities in Cary?

Wake Technical Community College

What is the weather like in Cary? 

The year brings several warm to moderately hot months. Even winter highs are in the 40s and 50s. 

What is there to do outside in Cary?

Choose your own adventure and take a stroll along Cary Park Lake Greenway, which is a two-part lake trail.

Cary, NC is Remote-Ready

What makes Cary a great place for remote workers?

Cary’s Economic Development Commission aims to make the city a destination for job seekers and job creators alike. By incentivizing businesses and corporations looking to plant roots and/or grow within the city limits, Cary is helping to ensure a bright and workable future for many who are considering relocating or re-building their careers.

What Locals Love in Cary, NC

What is the best local bookstore in Cary?

Find a page-turner or two at Mr. Mike’s Used Books. 

How do you spend a weekend in Cary?

Explore the local shops in downtown Cary. 

What can you do for free in Cary?

Admire Cary’s public art and, of course, get photos!

Whats the best way to spend happy hour in Cary?

Whether you go for a classic cocktail or one of the specialty drinks served up at SideBar, this spot is the perfect place to relax after a long day. 

Whats something only locals know about Cary?

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

Is Cary, NC a good place to live?

Friendly residents, a strong economy and excellent schools make Cary a best place to live in North Carolina.

Thinking of Moving to Cary?

What is the Cary, NC real estate market like?

As part of the Triangle Area, Cary real estate easily makes the list as one of the best places to live in the U.S. with its small-town feel and big-city amenities. Families looking for a close community atmosphere like the area of Amberly, offering a huge community center and a mixture of townhomes, row houses, and newer craftsman style homes for sale in Cary. People looking for the country club lifestyle can do so at MacGregor Downs where you’ll find stately homes and townhouses in a variety of architectural styles. Killdeer Farms offers a serene atmosphere with older homes and mature trees in an established neighborhood near downtown Cary. Just about anywhere in the city is a great place to live and there are several real estate agents in Cary that can help you find the perfect place for you.

Quick Facts About Cary, NC

Average Commute
20.69
Median Home Value
$438,130
Med. Household Income
$106,000
Total Population
180,391
Walk Score
25
Median Property Tax
$1,583

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2022

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