Cary, NC Rental Market
Cary is the most affluent suburb in the Research Triangle and home to SAS Institute — the world's largest privately held software company. Consistently ranked among the safest and best-managed cities in the United States, Cary attracts high-income professionals and families drawn by its top-rated schools, manicured planned communities, and proximity to Raleigh's employment core. The rental market skews toward high-quality single-family homes and upscale apartment communities.
Get a rent estimate for an address in CaryAverage Rent in Cary, NC
$1,700
per month · 2026-06
Market Score
Key Facts — Cary, NC Rental Market
- Average rent in Cary, NC:$1,700/mo
- Median rent:$1,564/mo
- Rent range:$850 – $3,750/mo
- Most common rental (2 bedrooms):$1,500/mo
- Active listings:680
- Avg days to lease:24 days
- Year-over-year change:+4.2%
- Median home value:$390,000
- Est. gross annual yield:5.2%
- Data as of:2026-06
Rent by Bedroom in Cary, NC
Average monthly rent for each bedroom type based on current active listings in Cary.
| Bedroom Type | Avg Rent/mo |
|---|---|
1 Bedroom | $1,225/mo |
2 Bedrooms | $1,500/mo |
3 Bedrooms | $1,900/mo |
4 Bedrooms | $2,350/mo |
5 Bedrooms | $2,675/mo |
Cary Rental Market Statistics
Key indicators from the current Cary, NC rental market.
680
Available now in Cary
24
From list to lease
$1.26
Average across listings
1,350 sq ft
Typical rental size
$850 – $3,750
Min to max active listings
+4.2%
Avg rent vs. prior year
Investing in Cary, NC Rental Properties
Estimated returns based on current market rents and median home values. Perform full due diligence before investing.
Median Home Value
$390,000
Typical purchase price in Cary
Est. Gross Annual Yield
5.2%
Before expenses & vacancy
Avg Monthly Income
$1,700
At average market rent
Gross yield = (avg rent × 12) ÷ median home value. Does not include expenses, financing, vacancies, or management fees. Analyze a specific property in Cary for a full cash-flow breakdown including all costs.
Cary, NC Rental Market FAQ
Common questions about renting and investing in Cary, NC.
What is the average rent in Cary, NC?
The average rent in Cary, NC is $1,700 per month as of 2026 — the highest in our NC coverage alongside Raleigh. Three-bedroom homes average $1,900/mo and are the dominant rental type, reflecting Cary's family-oriented suburban character. Luxury apartment communities near SAS and Downtown Cary offer premium one- and two-bedroom units.
Is Cary, NC a good place to invest in rental property?
Cary is a strong appreciation-focused investment market with a market score of 8/10. While the gross yield (~5.2%) is lower due to high home values, Cary benefits from exceptional tenant quality (SAS employees, Apple and Cisco workers), low vacancy, and 4.2% annual rent growth. It suits investors who prioritize tenant stability and long-term appreciation.
How competitive is the Cary, NC rental market?
Cary is the most competitive rental market in our NC Triangle coverage, averaging just 24 days on market. With only 680 active listings — small relative to its population — well-maintained 3-bedroom homes in neighborhoods like Lochmere and MacGregor Downs frequently attract multiple applications within days of listing.
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