Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Cary, NC
The median monthly rent in Cary, NC is $1,920, translating to $23,040 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.40% — well below the 1% rule, making pure cash flow investing challenging at median prices.
Renters in Cary spend approximately 22% of the local median household income ($104,000) on rent. This is well below the 30% threshold, suggesting significant headroom for rent increases. Tenants can afford to pay more, which is bullish for landlords.
The vacancy rate in Cary is 3.8%. This is extremely tight — expect strong tenant demand, quick lease-ups, and leverage to set favorable lease terms. In markets this tight, landlords often see multiple applications per listing. Population growth of 2.4% annually is actively adding rental demand.
Cary's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 20.8x. A GRM above 16x means the property is expensive relative to its income. Investors here are typically betting on appreciation rather than current cash flow. For comparison, the national average GRM for investment-grade rentals is approximately 13-15x.
At the median rent of $1,920/mo, a single-family rental in Cary generates approximately $23,040 in gross annual income. After accounting for 3.8% vacancy ($876 lost), property taxes of $3,696, insurance (~$1,920), and maintenance (~$1,920), the estimated NOI is $14,628 per year, or $1,219/mo.