Cary, NCBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Between the Western Carolina mountains and East Coast beaches is Cary, a cozy community with a high quality of life, thanks to a thriving economy, top-ranked schools, picturesque neighborhoods and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Cary, NC, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Nestled between the stunning Western Carolina mountains and the famous East Coast beaches of the Outer Banks, Cary, NC, is using its enviable location to its advantage. Located in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, Cary is in the center of the Research Triangle Area, which places the city less than 30 minutes from downtown Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. This central location and its proximity to the Research Triangle Park — the largest research park in the U.S. — are a big part of what makes Cary one of the best places to live in the U.S. With a robust job market, the city of 180,341 is known as a hotspot not only for employees of the Research Triangle Park but also for entrepreneurs looking to launch new businesses.
Although Cary has the amenities of a large city, including a great restaurant and bar scene, it retains an affordable cost of living and a small-town feel, reflected in the high safety rating given by background check company GoodHire. In 2022 they named Cary, NC, the safest city in the United States. Locals noted that they feel safe running or walking the quaint neighborhoods and greenways. But the safe, close-knit environment isn’t the only reason Cary is desirable for young families. The schools here are fantastic. According to Public School Review, which analyzes and evaluates the quality of public schools, Cary has one of the highest concentrations of top-ranked public schools in North Carolina.
Finally, Cary is a flourishing city that offers a fantastic arts scene (gorgeous public art, galleries and more), a variety of eateries, must-visit breweries and great sporting events. Baseball fans can rejoice as Cary is home to the USA Baseball National Training Complex.
Cary, NC Quality of Life LivScore
Cary, NC Top Categories
Transportation
Economy
Health
Cary ranks highest for transportation, economy and health.
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 less than 4 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 of fishing on the lake at the Fred H. Bond Metro Park, or take in a show at the outdoor Koka Booth Amphitheater. Kayaking, mountain biking and ropes courses are also popular.
Cary Weather
216 days
Average Annual Sun
46 inches
Average Annual Rain
3.8 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Cary, NC
Downtown Cary hosts Park After Dark, a free concert series showcasing a variety of music and local food and drink vendors. If you prefer 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!
Pick up amazing coffee and pastries at La Farm Bakery for a picnic by the Bond Park Boathouse before kayaking or paddle boarding on the lake. Then, cool down with some delicious, locally crafted ice cream at FRESH. Local Ice Cream.
Bond Brothers Beer Company has gained popularity for its incredible selection of handcrafted brews. Enjoy drinks at the indoor industrial-style space or spill outdoors onto the patio. The bar offers some great bites as well as food trucks on rotation, and the place is welcoming to everyone — including dogs!
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 2023, 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.
Quick Facts About Cary, NC
- Median Household Income
- $106,000
- Median Home Value
- $438,130
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,583
- Total Population
- 180,391
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,241
- Average Commute
- 20.69 minutes
Cary has the amenities of a large city, including a great restaurant and bar scene, while retaining an affordable cost of living and a high safety ranking. Plan your move to Cary, or consider other affordable places to live in North Carolina. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
