📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Cary and Los Angeles
Head-to-Head Analysis
Cary vs Los Angeles
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Cary | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $129,607 | $79,701 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.8% | 5.5% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $570,000 | $1,002,500 |
| Price per SqFt | $260 | $616 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,176 | $2,006 |
| Housing Cost Index | 104.0 | 173.0 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 96.5 | 107.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.98 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 89.0 | 732.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 71.5% | 39.2% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 52 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Los Angeles vs. Cary: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
Choosing between Los Angeles and Cary, North Carolina is like deciding between a blockbuster movie and a perfectly curated indie film. One is a sprawling, high-energy metropolis known the world over; the other is a meticulously planned, affluent suburb that has quietly become one of America’s most desirable places to live.
As your relocation expert, I’m here to cut through the hype. This isn’t just about palm trees versus pine trees. It’s about your wallet, your daily grind, and your long-term happiness. Let’s break it down.
The Vibe Check: Glamour vs. Gated Serenity
Los Angeles is the quintessential big city. It’s a fast-paced, traffic-choked, culturally diverse beast where ambition is the currency. The vibe is a mix of Hollywood fantasy, relentless hustle, and laid-back beach culture. You’re trading convenience and space for access to world-class entertainment, cuisine, and career opportunities. It’s for the dreamers, the connectors, and those who thrive on energy.
Cary is the definition of a "master-planned community." It’s clean, safe, and incredibly family-friendly. Often dubbed the "Silicon Valley of the South" due to its proximity to the Research Triangle Park (RTP), it attracts tech professionals, academics, and families seeking top-tier schools and a peaceful, suburban lifestyle. The vibe is orderly, green, and quietly affluent. It’s for those who prioritize stability, safety, and a high quality of life without the chaos of a major metropolis.
Who is each city for?
- Los Angeles: Ambitious professionals (entertainment, tech, international business), culture seekers, and those who value diversity and "scene" over square footage.
- Cary: Families, tech professionals in RTP, and anyone seeking a safe, community-oriented environment with excellent schools and a lower cost of living.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Bigger?
This is where the "sticker shock" hits. If you’re moving from a lower-cost area, both cities will surprise you, but LA’s numbers are in a different stratosphere. Let’s talk purchasing power.
The key insight here is taxes. California has some of the highest income taxes in the nation (up to 13.3% for high earners), while North Carolina has a flat rate of 4.75%. That alone can be a dealbreaker for many.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | Los Angeles, CA | Cary, NC | Winner (Lower Cost) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,002,500 | $570,000 | Cary |
| Rent (1BR) | $2,006 | $1,176 | Cary |
| Housing Index | 173.0 | 104.0 | Cary |
| Median Income | $79,701 | $129,607 | Cary |
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 732.5 | 89.0 | Cary |
| Avg. Summer Temp | 78°F | 87°F | Tie (Subjective) |
Salary Wars: The $100k Test
Let’s say you earn $100,000. In Cary, NC, with the lower state income tax and significantly cheaper housing, your lifestyle would be comfortable. You could afford a nice apartment or a mortgage on a single-family home, save for retirement, and enjoy discretionary spending.
In Los Angeles, that same $100,000 feels like $65,000 to $70,000 after taxes and housing costs. You’d likely be renting a smaller apartment, spending a larger portion of your income on transportation, and facing a much higher day-to-day cost for everything from groceries to dining out. Your purchasing power is slashed.
The Verdict on Dollar Power: Cary wins decisively. The combination of a higher median income, astronomically lower housing costs, and no state income tax means your paycheck stretches much, much further in Cary.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Los Angeles: The housing market is notoriously brutal. With a median home price over $1 million, it’s almost exclusively a buyer’s market for the wealthy. Renters face intense competition, high prices, and often strict requirements. The Housing Index of 173.0 (where 100 is the national average) signals severe unaffordability. Buying is a major financial hurdle requiring a massive down payment and accepting a high mortgage payment.
Cary: The market is competitive but accessible. A median home price of $570,000 is still above the national average but is within reach for dual-income professional households. The Housing Index of 104.0 indicates it's slightly above average but not prohibitively expensive. Renting is a viable option, with $1,176 for a 1-bedroom being reasonable for the area. It’s a strong market for buyers looking for long-term value in a growing region.
The Verdict on Housing: Cary wins for accessibility. While LA offers global prestige, Cary offers a tangible path to homeownership for the middle and upper-middle class.
The Dealbreakers: Life in the Trenches
Traffic & Commute
- Los Angeles: Legendary. The average commute can be over 30 minutes, and traffic is a daily reality that dictates your schedule. Public transit exists but is often not a reliable time-saver for most. Car ownership is non-negotiable.
- Cary: Much more manageable. As a suburb, it’s car-dependent, but traffic is lighter than in nearby Raleigh or Durham. The Research Triangle Parkway and I-40 offer decent connectivity. The average commute is shorter and less stressful.
Weather
- Los Angeles: The star. 54°F is the annual average, but that’s misleading. It boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. You get sunshine year-round. The biggest weather con is the lack of seasons and the infamous "June Gloom" (morning clouds).
- Cary: Four distinct seasons. Springs are beautiful, summers are hot and humid (averaging 87°F in July), falls are stunning, and winters are short but can have occasional snow/ice. The humidity is a significant adjustment for those used to dry heat. You get a full seasonal experience.
Crime & Safety
- Los Angeles: Violent crime is a serious consideration. At 732.5 incidents per 100,000 people, it’s nearly 8x higher than Cary. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood, with some areas being very safe and others experiencing significant issues. You must be highly aware of your surroundings.
- Cary: Exceptionally safe. With a violent crime rate of 89.0 per 100,000, it’s one of the safest communities in the U.S. This is a massive selling point for families and those prioritizing peace of mind.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Move?
There is no universal winner. The right choice hinges on your life stage, career, and values.
Winner for Families: Cary
The data is clear. Cary offers top-rated public schools, safe neighborhoods, abundant parks, and a community built around family life. The financial ease of buying a home and the lower crime rate create an environment where raising children is less stressful and more affordable. The seasonal variety is also a plus for many families.
Winner for Singles/Young Pros: Los Angeles
If you’re in entertainment, international business, or a field where networking and "being there" matters, Los Angeles is the place. The energy, diversity of people and experiences, and career opportunities are unmatched. Be prepared for high costs and competition, but for the right person, the trade-off is worth it.
Winner for Retirees: Cary
For retirees, financial security and safety are paramount. Cary offers a lower cost of living, no state income tax on Social Security, excellent healthcare access (proximity to Duke, UNC, and WakeMed), and a calm, safe environment. The mild winters (compared to the northeast) are a bonus, though the summer humidity can be a factor.
Pros & Cons Summary
Los Angeles: Pros
- World-class career opportunities and industries.
- Incredible diversity and cultural scenes (food, art, music).
- Iconic beaches and outdoor activities.
- No real winters.
Los Angeles: Cons
- Astronomical cost of living and housing.
- Brutal traffic and long commutes.
- High crime rates (neighborhood-dependent).
- Competitive, fast-paced lifestyle can be exhausting.
Cary: Pros
- Exceptionally safe with a very low crime rate.
- Strong job market in tech and research (RTP).
- Top-tier public schools and family-friendly amenities.
- More affordable housing and no state income tax.
- Manageable traffic and a relaxed pace.
Cary: Cons
- Less diverse and culturally vibrant than a major metro.
- Car-dependent; limited public transit.
- Hot, humid summers.
- Can feel "suburban" or "bland" to those seeking an urban vibe.
Final Call: Choose Cary if you value safety, financial stability, and family life. Choose Los Angeles if you prioritize career ambition, cultural immersion, and are willing to pay a premium for the quintessential big-city experience. Your wallet and your lifestyle will thank you for choosing the one that truly fits.