2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Cary, NC vs Santa Barbara, CA

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Highlights
Are people in Santa Barbara older or younger than people in Cary?
- The Median Age in Santa Barbara is 0.0 years older than in Cary.

Are housing costs cheaper in Santa Barbara or Cary?
- Santa Barbara housing costs are 165.6% more expensive than Cary housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Santa Barbara or Cary?
- The average commute for residents of Santa Barbara is 5.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Cary.

Things to do in Cary?
Cary, North Carolina is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Research Triangle. With its close proximity to Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, Cary offers something for everyone. Nature-lovers can explore the beauty of Pine Hollow Park or take part in outdoor recreation at Umstead State Park. For culture and entertainment, visitors can enjoy visits to local museums and galleries, as well as lively music venues and nightlife hotspots. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Cary has something for everyone!

Things to do in Santa Barbara?
Santa Barbara, California has something for everyone - from fantastic beaches to world-class shopping and dining experiences. Visitors can explore Old Mission Santa Barbara or take part in various water activities around Stearns Wharf.

 Cary, NCSanta Barbara, CAUnited States
 Population  Unlock89,132329,725,481
 Median Income$113,782  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$574,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.1%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.73  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Cary    63 Reviews

Cary is up-and-coming “cool.” The downtown is revitalized and growing. The town takes urban planning very seriously. The home prices have definitely spiked in the last  More

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Over 8 years ago

I've lived in NY, CT, MA, and in Miami FL. Now here in Cary NC for the past 10 years. For what I want and need at this phase of my life, I really like it here! All the  More

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Over 8 years ago

As a Real Estate Agent, I consider Cary the most central location in the Triangle, it basically takes you twenty minutes to get to Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough,   More

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Reviews for Santa Barbara    51 Reviews

I moved to Santa Barbara around 23 years ago to study at Brooks, which like most of the Santa Barbara that I knew—has been destroyed. Homelessness, drugs, gangs, high  More

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Over 4 years ago

I fell in love with Santa Barbara about thirty years ago and finally moved here a few years ago. Because of the price of homes, it is an expensive place to live. The  More

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If you like high crime, paying a $4,500 a month mortgage and crazy high taxes, this is the place for you. It’s too bad because it wasn’t always like this. When I moved  More

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