A Traveler’s Guide for Moving to Cary, NC

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Cary, NC, is as much an international town as any can get. 

Recognized as a “Tree City USA” for over three decades now, the area’s lush parks and widespread greenery are evidence of Cary oozes’ affluence.

It’s one of the richest cities in the U.S., and has a good number of top-rated schools mixed with a high quality of life.

So, expect a town that takes its bougie status seriously but in the most down-to-earth way possible. 

Also, as part of the famous Research Triangle region, tech companies and start-ups have made a birdnest of the city. With innovation becoming the watchword, your new neighbors could be scientists or tech geniuses.

If you plan on moving to Cary, you should know many things about this town beyond its roots in technology and tree development projects.

First Things First: The Luxe Life in Cary

Cary’s wealth shows in all the right places — well-maintained neighborhoods, beautifully paved streets, and abundant recreational opportunities. 

Even the healthcare facilities are modern and extensive!

However, all of this perfection comes at a cost; one that is 

8% higher than the national average. 

While it’s not crazy expensive like New York, you’re still going to need to live on a budget, especially for those coming from a low cost city.

Expense Category	Compared to the National Average
Housing	29% higher
Utilities	6% lower
Groceries	1% higher
Transportation	8% lower
Healthcare	12% higher

Important Things to Keep in Mind When Moving to Cary

In light of how prepared you need to be for life in Cary, what are the key considerations when planning a move to Cary?

You might want to watch out for:

• Housing market 101: Cary’s bidding wars

Cary’s housing market is competitive, driving up the cost of homes.

It’s not uncommon for homes here to sell above their listing prices. The valuations are higher (thanks to the community’s affluence and a seller’s market), so having a solid budget is key.

But you will find various options, from sprawling suburban homes to trendy apartments.

• Average House Rent: $1,651
• Median Home Value: $594,500

Note:

Your best bet is to work with a local real estate agent who knows the area well enough to snag an appropriate deal before moving.

• The economy and money matters

For a town as small as Cary, its economic activities and stability rival big cities. 

Job opportunities exist in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and even retail sectors. Fortunately, your earnings in Cary tend to match your expenses.

However, professional and technical services are Cary’s biggest employment opportunities. A major reason for this is its location within the Research Triangle region. 

You can expect an average salary of $93,515 as a software engineer. Also, it’s not uncommon for an IT director to rake in an average salary of $141,603 per year.

• Median Household Income: $125,317
• Unemployment Rate: 3.0%
• Poverty Rate: 5.2%

• Traffic and transportation

Luckily, transportation in Cary is one of the more affordable expenses you will make here.

In fact, you pay 8% lower than the national average to move around here. 

A gallon of gas goes for just about $3.13.

It also means you will likely get relatively low but reasonable quotes from the moving companies here when you book transportation for relocating to Cary.

Moreover, like most residents of Cary, you may find yourself heavily reliant on self-driving when you move here. Although if you prefer to use public transportation, the option is available—it’s just not as widely used as self-driving. 

Note:

The good news is that you won’t get stuck in traffic much. 

On average, commute time in Cary is 27 minutes, 5 minutes less than the national average. 

Cary’s is also only a short drive from Raleigh, Durham, and the Research Triangle Park. 

• Community vibes

As mentioned earlier, Cary is a global village. 

The communities of Cary are made up of a confluence of diverse individuals. These international residents come from a wide range of cultures, which lends to the unique cultural environment of Cary.

Residents love their farmers’ markets, cultural festivals, and outdoor activities. You can blend in by attending the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival or hiking Bond Park trails. 

The faster you embrace the local scene, the more you feel at home.

• Safety profile

Take away everything from Cary, one thing that will remain is the safety of the area. Cary is currently safer than over 40% of all U.S. cities. 

But what does this look like in numbers?

For violent crime, there’s a 1 in 1,253 chance you will be a victim of violent crime here (mind you, the town’s population is only about 180,000 people).

These odds were reduced to 1 in 91 for property crime, but it is still lower than the state and national averages.

per 1,000 residents	Cary Median	North Carolina Median	National Median
Violent Crime	0.8	4.05	4.0
Property Crime	11.01	20.64	20.0

Note:

As you move to Cary, crime should be the last thing you worry about.

How to Ensure Your Move to Cary, NC, is A Smashing Success

Moving to a new city is an adventure, and Cary is no exception.

Like most adventures, you will need hacks for a better experience when charting this unknown territory.

So, if you are asking, “What are some insider tips for making the most of my move to Cary as a traveler?” you are asking the right question. 

Here’s what you need to do:

• Do your research

In the right sense, moving to Cary is all about planning and preparedness.

Look up neighborhoods that match your vibe!

There’s the:

• family-friendly Lochmere and Raleigh Area, 
• artsy Downtown Cary, and 
• the suburban serenity of Preston.

Each area has its unique charm.

Booking moving services early is key to unlocking a stress-free move. Cary’s popularity means moving companies are in demand, especially during summer and fall when most people move.

So, how far in advance should I book moving services for a seamless transition to Cary? 

At least 6-8 weeks in advance. It’s enough time to compare quotes and not skimp on reviews. 

• Join local groups 

From book clubs to fitness classes, Cary has different pockets of community for everyone.

If physical events like festivals are not your thing, you can use platforms like Meetup or Nextdoor. They can help you connect with your new neighbors and make friends faster after you move to Cary.

• Take advantage of Cary’s amenities

Cary’s parks and greenways are a huge attraction for visitors and residents.

• Spend a weekend kayaking at Fred G. Bond Metro Park,
• Explore Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve.

These spots make Cary feel like more than just a city—at some point, it will be more of a lifestyle.

Final Thoughts — Blending In

There is more to Cary than just being a wealthy town. It’s a place where you can build a fulfilling life and enjoy incredible amenities.

However, you should remember that moving to Cary for work, family, or just a change of environment requires planning. 

By embracing the guidelines here on the Cary lifestyle, your move will be seamless and memorable.