15 Facts About Living In Cary NC
Cary is a remarkable town that maintains the urban feel of a city while being rich in history, known for its incredibly diverse community, and continues to attract people from all over the country and even the world. Consistently ranking as one of the fastest-growing towns in the US while simultaneously being named one of the safest places to live in America, Cary offers a unique combination that's hard to find anywhere else.
A Strategic Triple-County Location
One of the most fascinating aspects of Cary is that it's actually a triple-county location. While most people know Cary is located in Wake County, it's also part of Chatham County and Durham County. This unique positioning places Cary just 8 miles west of Raleigh and close to Research Triangle Park, making it incredibly convenient for commuters and businesses alike.
The development of the nearby Research Triangle Park in 1959 led to Cary's population doubling in that decade, and the town has seen at least a doubling in population in the decades since. At the current growth rate, approximately 10.8 people move to Cary every single day, seven days a week, 52 weeks a year. This consistent growth speaks volumes about what the town has to offer.
A Hub for World-Class Business
Cary is home to world-class businesses, including SAS Institute, the world's largest privately held software company and the town's largest employer. The proximity to Research Triangle Park, which employs more than 60,000 people across over 375 companies, provides incredible career opportunities. RTP houses top companies like IBM, Cisco, Lenovo, and Apple, making Cary an ideal location for professionals in technology and research fields.
Celebrating Diversity and Safety
Cary is renowned for its diverse culture, and you'll meet residents who come not only from other parts of the country but from different parts of the world. Approximately 19% of the town's population was born in another country, with the Asian population tripling during the 1990s according to World Population Review. This diversity creates a rich cultural tapestry that enhances the community experience for everyone.
Safety is another cornerstone of Cary's appeal. The town is consistently named one of the safest places to live both regionally and nationally. FBI data has even identified Cary as the safest midsize place to live in the entire United States, giving families peace of mind and contributing to the town's desirability.
The $69 Million Downtown Transformation
Cary recently invested $69 million through bonds to create the spectacular new Downtown Cary Park. This seven-acre masterpiece includes ponds, waterfalls, walking bridges over bubbling streams, gardens, a large fountain, outdoor games, and an amphitheater. Families can enjoy the grab-and-go market, picnic areas, multiple dog parks, splash pad, and playground for children. It's truly a destination that brings the entire community together.
Rich History and Educational Excellence
Cary's history as a former railroad village is preserved in several historic buildings, including the Page Walker Hotel, originally built in 1868 as a railroad hotel and now restored as a local history museum and events space. The Nancy Jones House, Cary's oldest known residential structure built in 1803, also stands as a testament to the town's deep roots.
The town became known as an educational center in the late 19th century, and here's a fascinating fact: in 1907, Cary High School became the first state-funded public high school in North Carolina. Today, over 68% of adults in Cary hold a bachelor's degree or higher, which is significantly higher than both national and state averages according to World Population Review.
Prosperity and Cultural Richness
Cary's median household income of $137,822 compares very favorably to Raleigh's $102,100, reflecting the town's economic prosperity. This financial stability supports a thriving cultural scene, including unique venues like the Cotton House Craft Brewers, located in a former high school boarding house in downtown Cary built in 1900.
The culinary scene in Cary is impressively diverse, offering everything from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments. Each second Sunday of the month, the downtown Cary food and flea market provides an opportunity to discover food from local chefs, along with local beers, crafts, and live music.
Festivals and Entertainment
Cary hosts several beloved annual festivals that draw visitors from across the region. The Lazy Days Arts and Crafts Festival attracts thousands of visitors, while the Chinese Lantern Festival brings in over 200,000 people annually. Cary is also home to the North Carolina Symphony at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, providing residents with world-class outdoor entertainment throughout the year.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
Cary demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining and sustaining a green community. The Go Cary Transit system encourages residents to use public transportation to reduce carbon emissions and help alleviate traffic congestion. This bus service offers routes throughout Cary and connections to neighboring towns, with children under 12 riding free and special services for citizens 65 and older. They even provide Go Cary door-to-door service for people with disabilities.
Extensive Greenways and Natural Areas
The town's dedication to preserving natural areas while providing recreational opportunities is evident in its extensive greenway and trail system. With over 35 greenway trails covering more than 70 miles and 34 parks totaling 2,700 acres, residents have countless opportunities to walk, jog, or bike while enjoying nature. The famous American Tobacco Trail runs directly through Cary, connecting residents to an even larger network of recreational opportunities.
Beautiful Lakes and Water Recreation
Cary offers multiple lakes for residents to enjoy water-based recreation. Bond Lake and Lake Crabtree Park provide opportunities for swimming and paddle boating, while Jordan Lake and Harris Lake offer options for those who want to take their boats out for the day. These water features add to the town's natural beauty and provide excellent recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.
Why Cary Captures Hearts
Cary is a beautiful town that continues to attract people from all over the world and capture their hearts to stay. From its strategic location and tight-knit community to its thriving businesses and exceptional work-life balance, Cary offers everything you need to work, live, and play. The combination of safety, diversity, educational excellence, environmental consciousness, and recreational opportunities creates a quality of life that's truly exceptional.
Whether you're drawn by the career opportunities, the excellent schools, the beautiful parks and greenways, the diverse cultural scene, or simply the welcoming community spirit, you just may want to consider calling Cary home yourself.
If you're considering relocating to Cary or anywhere in the Raleigh area and looking to purchase a home, I would love to help you discover all that this amazing town has to offer. Feel free to call or text me at 919-583-6895, and let's explore how Cary might be the perfect place for you and your family to call home.
Brandy Nemergut
