Cary

A Town That Has Something for Everyone

Cary is one of the fastest-growing cities in the South with world-class shopping, renowned restaurants, and a welcoming atmosphere for people of all backgrounds.

Getting around Cary is easy, with two bus lines, three Amtrak lines, and plenty of bike-friendly routes. With regular festivals, amazing parks, and world-renowned employers setting up shop here, Cary is a popular destination for homeowners in the Triangle.

#1 Place to Live in NC

U.S. News & World Report named Cary the Best Place to Live in North Carolina for the second straight year, plus #11 nationally and #5 among medium-sized cities for 2026–2027.

Award-Winning Downtown Park

Downtown Cary Park received a 2026 AIA Regional & Urban Design Award for transforming the town’s historic core into a vibrant community gathering space.

Niche’s Top Pick for NC

Niche.com once again ranked Cary the #1 place to live in North Carolina for 2026.

Cary At A Glance

Everything you need to know about one of the Triangle’s most sought-after communities. These key statistics highlight why so many people choose to live, work, and put down roots in Cary.

population
183,500+
Total Population
household income
135k
Median Household Income
homeownership
66.6%
Homeownership Rate
commute time
20
Commute to Raleigh

Things To Do in Cary

Fred G. Bond Metro Park

Fred G. Bond Metro Park

Fred G. Bond Metro Park in Cary offers a vibrant mix of outdoor activities and natural beauty. Spanning 310 acres, the park features walking trails, fishing lakes, athletic fields, and a championship disc golf course. Perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts alike, it combines scenic landscapes with recreational amenities for a refreshing escape in the heart of the Triangle.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre

Experience unforgettable live performances at Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary, a premier outdoor venue nestled along the scenic Smith Creek Greenway. This vibrant amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts, festivals, and cultural events year-round, offering a perfect blend of nature and entertainment. Enjoy world-class music beneath the stars just minutes from Raleigh’s luxury real estate. Visit boothamphitheatre.com for upcoming events.

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve

Discover the serene beauty of Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve in Cary, where towering hemlocks create a lush, shaded retreat. Explore scenic trails that wind through diverse habitats, perfect for nature walks and birdwatching. This 85-acre preserve offers a peaceful escape with informative exhibits, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike in the Triangle area.

Available Homes in Cary

1600 Gathering Park Circle 203, Cary, NC 27519
New Construction 46 images $675,000 View home

Franklin Park of Carpenter Village

1600 Gathering Park Circle 203, Cary, NC 27519

3 bd / 2.5 ba / 2,301 sqft

Status: Active, MLS #10200315 Courtesy of Coldwell Banker HPW.
414 Willow Street, Cary, NC 27511
New Construction 37 images $2,550,000 View home

Not in a Subdivision

414 Willow Street, Cary, NC 27511

4 bd / 4.5 ba / 4,665 sqft

Status: Active, MLS #10191332 Courtesy of Coldwell Banker HPW.
1600 Gathering Park Circle 303, Cary, NC 27519
New Construction 1 image $720,000 View home

Franklin Park of Carpenter Village

1600 Gathering Park Circle 303, Cary, NC 27519

3 bd / 2.5 ba / 2,301 sqft

Status: Pending, MLS #10078150 Courtesy of Coldwell Banker HPW.

New Home Communities in Cary

Your Insider Guide to Cary

There’s more to finding a home than finding the right house. Explore our JAG Insider Guide for a curated look at Cary’s neighborhoods, local experiences, dining, culture, and everything that makes this community feel like home.

View Insider Guide

Nearby Cities

JAG Neighborhoods in Cary