đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Cary and San Diego
Head-to-Head Analysis
Cary vs San Diego
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Cary | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $129,607 | $105,780 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.8% | 4.9% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $570,000 | $930,000 |
| Price per SqFt | $260 | $662 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,176 | $2,248 |
| Housing Cost Index | 104.0 | 185.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 96.5 | 103.5 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.98 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 89.0 | 378.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 71.5% | 52% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 25 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Diego vs. Cary: The Ultimate Relocation Showdown
So, you’re torn between two completely different worlds. On one side, you have San Diego—the sun-soaked, laid-back Southern California anchor with a killer coastline and a vibe that screams “why rush?” On the other, you have Cary, North Carolina—the polished, family-centric suburb of Raleigh that’s all about top-tier schools, manicured neighborhoods, and a Southern charm that’s more about community than coastlines.
This isn’t just a choice between two cities; it’s a choice between two lifestyles. Are you trading hustle for horizon, or are you looking for a stable, high-quality life in a booming metro? Let’s break down the data, the vibe, and the real-life costs to help you decide where to put down roots.
The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle
San Diego is the ultimate “work hard, play harder” city. The culture is deeply tied to the outdoors—surfing in the morning, hiking in the afternoon, and breweries at night. It’s a city of transplants and military personnel, creating a diverse, transient energy. The pace is generally slower than LA, but it’s still a major urban center. Think: beach town meets global city. It’s for the person who values lifestyle over a corner office and is willing to pay a premium for sunshine and salt air.
Cary is the epitome of the modern, planned American suburb. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S. for a reason: safety, schools, and smart growth. The vibe is family-first, community-oriented, and quietly affluent. It’s less about a distinct cultural identity and more about providing a high-quality, stable environment. You’re not moving here for a raging nightlife scene; you’re moving here for the parks, the low crime, and the excellent public schools. It’s for the planner, the achiever, and the family builder.
Who is each city for?
- San Diego: The outdoor enthusiast, the military affiliate, the young professional who prioritizes lifestyle, the retiree seeking perfect weather.
- Cary: The young family, the tech/finance professional seeking a better cost of living, the retiree wanting safety and four distinct seasons.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary
This is where the two cities diverge most dramatically. The sticker shock of San Diego is real, but so is California’s tax burden. Cary offers incredible purchasing power, especially with North Carolina’s favorable tax structure.
Let’s look at the raw numbers for a single person (1BR rent, utilities, groceries):
| Category | San Diego, CA | Cary, NC | The Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $930,000 | $570,000 | Cary wins by a landslide. |
| Rent (1BR) | $2,248 | $1,176 | Cary is 48% cheaper. |
| Housing Index | 185.8 (85.8% above U.S. avg) | 104.0 (4% above U.S. avg) | Cary is nearly average; SD is extreme. |
| Utilities (Est.) | ~$200 | ~$180 | Slight edge to Cary. |
| Groceries (Est.) | ~$400 | ~$350 | Cary is cheaper. |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let’s run a scenario. You earn a $100,000 salary in both locations. Where does your dollar stretch further?
- In San Diego: Your $100k feels like $69,000 (after state income tax). California has a progressive income tax that can bite, with rates ranging from 1% to 12.3% for this income level. After the brutal cost of living, especially housing, you’re in a tight budget. You’re likely house-poor or renting with roommates. The median income of $105,780 in San Diego is deceptive because the cost of living eats up a massive chunk.
- In Cary: Your $100,000 feels like $92,000 (after state income tax). North Carolina has a flat state income tax of 4.75%. Crucially, Cary’s median income is $129,607, which is 22% higher than San Diego’s. This means the average person in Cary takes home significantly more money after taxes, and the cost of living is dramatically lower. Your purchasing power here is immense.
Insight on Taxes: The 0% income tax in Texas gets all the press, but North Carolina’s flat tax is also a huge win for high earners. Compare that to California’s top rate of 13.3%, and the long-term wealth-building potential in Cary becomes undeniable. You could save the equivalent of a luxury car payment every month just by living in Cary.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
San Diego: The Seller’s Market on Steroids
Buying in San Diego is a contact sport. With a median home price of $930,000, you’re looking at a mortgage payment that requires a massive down payment and a high income. The market is perpetually competitive, with bidding wars common. Renting is the only option for many, but even that is expensive. The Housing Index of 185.8 tells you everything—it’s one of the least affordable markets in the country. You’re paying for the location, not the square footage.
Cary: A Competitive but Achievable Market
Cary’s median home price of $570,000 is more accessible, but don’t be fooled—it’s a hot market. As a top-ranked suburb, demand is high, and homes move quickly. The Housing Index of 104.0 is close to the national average, meaning it’s relatively balanced. You’ll still face competition, especially in top school districts, but you get far more house for your money. Renting is a viable, much cheaper stepping stone to buying here.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- San Diego: Traffic is notoriously bad, especially on the I-5 and I-805 corridors. The commute can be a soul-crushing slog, and public transit (trolley/bus) is limited. A 30-mile commute can easily take 90 minutes in rush hour.
- Cary: Traffic is manageable compared to major metros, but it’s growing. As part of the Research Triangle, the commute to Raleigh or Durham can add up. However, the infrastructure is newer and designed for cars. It’s far less stressful than Southern California freeways.
Weather
- San Diego: This is the city’s crown jewel. With an average temperature of 57°F, it’s the definition of a Mediterranean climate. Low humidity, rarely too hot or cold, and sunshine year-round. The biggest weather complaints are the June Gloom (marine layer) and the Santa Ana winds. No snow, minimal rain.
- Cary: Four distinct seasons. Winters are cool, with occasional snow or ice (average low in winter is in the 30s°F). Summers are hot and humid, with highs often in the 90s°F. Spring and fall are gorgeous. If you hate humidity or cold, Cary’s weather is a dealbreaker. If you love seasonal change, it’s a major pro.
Crime & Safety
- San Diego: Violent crime rate is 378.0 per 100k. While safer than many large cities, it’s significantly higher than Cary. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood—some areas are pristine, others have higher property crime.
- Cary: Violent crime rate is 89.0 per 100k. Cary is one of the safest cities of its size in the entire country. This is a massive selling point for families. You can feel safe walking at night, and property crime is low.
| Quality of Life Factor | San Diego | Cary | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weather | Perfect, mild, sunny | 4 seasons, hot summers | San Diego (for climate purists) |
| Safety | Moderate (378/100k) | Extremely Low (89/100k) | Cary (by a mile) |
| Commute | Infamous, stressful | Manageable, growing | Cary (less brutal) |
| Outdoor Access | World-class beaches & parks | Greenways & lakes | San Diego (for ocean lovers) |
The Final Verdict: Which City Wins Your Heart?
After breaking down the data, the lifestyle, and the long-term financial implications, here’s the final call.
🏆 Winner for Families: Cary
For raising kids, Cary is almost untouchable. The combination of top-ranked public schools, ultra-low crime, and a family-centric community is unbeatable. The lower cost of living means you can afford a larger home, save for college, and enjoy a higher quality of life without the financial strain of a coastal metro. The weather is a trade-off, but the safety and stability are paramount.
🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: San Diego
If you’re single, in your 20s or 30s, and your priority is an active, social lifestyle, San Diego wins. The networking opportunities, social scene, and endless outdoor activities are incredible. It’s a place to build a life around experiences. However, be prepared for financial tightness unless you have a high dual income. The trade-off is your lifestyle for your wallet.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: It’s a Tie (Based on Priorities)
- Choose San Diego if: Your primary goal is perfect weather, no shoveling snow, and access to world-class healthcare (UCSD, Scripps). You’re willing to pay a premium for the climate.
- Choose Cary if: Your primary goal is safety, affordability, and lower taxes to stretch your retirement savings. You prefer four seasons and don’t mind a humid summer.
San Diego: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Unbeatable Weather: Year-round sunshine and mild temps.
- Incredible Lifestyle: Beaches, hiking, breweries, world-class food scene.
- Diverse Economy: Strong military, biotech, and tourism sectors.
- Cultural Hub: Vibrant arts, music, and international culture.
Cons:
- Extreme Cost of Living: Housing will consume a huge portion of your income.
- High Taxes: California’s state income tax is a major wealth drain.
- Traffic & Commutes: Can be soul-crushing and time-consuming.
- Competitive Housing Market: Buying is a fierce battle; renting is expensive.
Cary: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional Value: High median income with a below-average cost of living.
- Top-Tier Safety & Schools: One of the safest cities with nationally ranked schools.
- Strategic Location: Easy access to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill (jobs, culture, healthcare).
- Favorable Taxes: Low state income tax boosts your purchasing power.
Cons:
- Weather Extremes: Hot, humid summers and a real winter.
- Less Distinct Culture: It’s a suburb—you’ll often drive to Raleigh/Durham for major events.
- Rapid Growth: Can feel crowded; traffic is increasing.
- No Ocean: The closest coast is a 2+ hour drive to Wilmington.
The Bottom Line:
If you’re chasing a lifestyle defined by climate and activity, and you have the financial means (or a high income), San Diego is the dream. If you’re building a life defined by stability, safety, and financial smartness, especially for a family, Cary is the clear, pragmatic winner. Your budget and your non-negotiables will make the choice obvious.