CARY, N.C. –Cary has been named the #5 Best Place to Live in the United States and the #1 Best Place to Live in North Carolina by U.S. News & World Report in its 2025-2026 Best Places to Live rankings. Cary also earned the #4 spot among the Best Medium-Sized Cities to Live in the U.S.

This year’s expanded report evaluated more than 850 municipalities – up from 150 in previous years – using metrics such as value, job market strength, desirability, and quality of life, weighted in part by a national survey of what Americans value most in a place to live. U.S. News noted that these changes to the methodology give consumers a more complete view into what it’s like to live somewhere at the community level.

“This kind of recognition reflects years of thoughtful planning and the dedication of Cary’s citizens and staff,” said Harold Weinbrecht, Mayor of Cary. “While we don’t chase rankings, it sure feels good when others take notice of what we’ve built together.”

According to U.S. News, Cary was “propelled to the top 10 of our rankings by its abundant employment opportunities and high living standards.” The publication describes Cary as the largest municipality by population in the top 25, yet it still offers “the comforts of a small town, including safe neighborhoods, clean air, and excellent public schools.” Cary also ranked #27 nationally for college readiness, thanks to a top-tier K-12 education system that prepares students for success at nearby research universities. Additionally, the town placed in the top 5% for job market strength, supported by its proximity to the high-paying tech sector jobs in Research Triangle Park.

“While quality of life remains the top priority for many Americans – and has the heaviest weight in determining the Best Places to Live rankings –U.S. News slightly adjusted its weights to increase priority for a location’s job market amid heightened economic uncertainty,” said Erika Giovanetti, consumer lending analyst at U.S. News & World Report.

“Choosing a place to live is a life-changing decision for many people,” Giovanetti added. “The 2025-2026 Best Places to Live rankings expanded this year to identify cities of all sizes that are most likely to meet the wants and needs of those considering where to call home next.”

The rankings methodology combines proprietary U.S. News data with inputs from Applied Geographic Solutions and federal agencies, including the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

This national recognition for Cary builds on a standout year with Niche.com ranking Cary the #1 Best Place to Live in North Carolina and the #1 Best Place to Raise a Family in North Carolina, and USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards naming The Nest at Downtown Cary Park the #1 Public Playground in America.

About Cary, North Carolina

With excellence and innovation at its core, Cary is a thriving community of around 190,000 residents representing more than 60 nationalities, positioned at the heart of North Carolina’s renowned Research Triangle Park region. Consistently ranked among the top places to live, work, and visit, Cary is known for its safe neighborhoods, extensive greenways, environmental stewardship, and premier sports and cultural venues. Its “people first” philosophy drives collaboration, adaptability, and forward-thinking public investments that make Cary an exceptional place to call home and an inspiring destination for visitors. For more information, visit CaryNC.gov/about and follow us on social media @caryncgov.

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders, and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. news is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers, and consumer products and services.

Primary Contacts

If you have specific questions, visit carync.gov/311, dial 311 anywhere in Cary, (919) 469-4000 outside Town limits, or email 311@carync.gov.

Resources

• Cary, NC Profile Page on U.S. News & World Report
• Top 25 Places to Live (Cary #5 in the nation)
• Best Places to Live in NC (Cary #1 in the state)
• S. News & World Report Best Places to Live main page