Is Cary, NC Safe to Buy? Home Safety Score 63/100
Score 63/100 · Risk: moderate · Water Grade C · Updated 2026-05-03
Cary has moderate risk. Some factors warrant attention during the home buying process.
Data: EPA SDWIS, FEMA NFIP, Census ACS, EPA Radon Zones Last verified: 2026-05-03
Looking at Cary's cost and property data together, estimated remediation figures fall in the lower portion of the equity-share spectrum — a classification that reflects local valuations and places safety planning well within reach for most property owners here.
What is a home safety score?
The home safety score (0-100) combines multiple environmental risk factors into a single number: water quality grade, lead contamination levels, flood zone exposure, radon risk, and air quality. A higher score means lower overall risk. The score helps homebuyers compare neighborhoods at a glance. Cary scores 63/100 with a "moderate" risk level.
Remediation Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Cary:
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages. Actual costs vary by property. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Per-ZIP Home Safety Scores
Safety scores vary across Cary's 5 ZIP codes.
| ZIP Code | Score | Grade | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 27511 | 59 | C | View report → |
| 27518 | 59 | C | View report → |
| 27513 | 64 | C | View report → |
| 27512 | 66 | C | View report → |
| 27519 | 69 | C | View report → |
Home Safety Overview
Cary, North Carolina has moderate risk for homebuyers. The average home safety score is 63/100 across 5 ZIP codes. Some risk factors warrant attention during the home buying process.
Safety Score Card
A composite view of Cary's key risk indicators:
| Risk Factor | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Water Quality | Grade C (63/100) | Moderate risk |
| Lead Risk | 0.0030 mg/L | Low risk |
| Flood Risk | 80% in flood zones | Elevated risk |
| Radon | Zone 2 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
| Air Quality | AQI 62 (Moderate) | Moderate risk |
Cost to Fix: Remediation Breakdown
Estimated costs to address safety issues for a typical home in Cary:
| Component | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Radon | $400 |
| Filtration | $600 |
| Flood Insurance | $960 |
| Pfas | $400 |
| Total (low estimate) | $1K |
| Total (mid estimate) | $2K |
| Total (high estimate) | $4K |
Cost ranges are estimates based on national averages and local data. Actual costs vary by property condition, contractor, and scope of work. Get 3 quotes before proceeding.
Per-ZIP Home Safety Scores
Home safety varies across Cary's ZIP codes. Lower scores indicate more risk factors:
Cary vs. Nearby North Carolina Cities
How Cary's overall risk compares to similar cities in North Carolina:
| City | Water Grade | Lead ZIPs Over Limit | Flood Claims | Population |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cary | C | 0 | 197 | 281,828 |
| Fayetteville | A | 0 | 727 | 311,870 |
| Greensboro | A | 0 | 567 | 321,181 |
| Bahama | B | 0 | 2 | 322,083 |
Homebuyer Safety Checklist for Cary
Before purchasing a home in Cary, North Carolina, complete these checks:
Water Quality
- Request the latest Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from the water utility
- Test tap water for lead, bacteria, and nitrates ($20-$50 for DIY kit)
Radon
- Conduct a radon test ($15-$30 for short-term kit, $150-$300 for professional)
- Cary is in Radon Zone 2 (Moderate risk) — testing is strongly recommended
Flood Risk
- Check the property's FEMA flood zone at msc.fema.gov
- Ask about flood history and past insurance claims
- 80% of Cary is in flood zones — verify insurance requirements
Lead Paint & Pipes
- For homes built before 1978: request lead paint disclosure
- For homes built before 1986: inspect plumbing for lead solder and pipes
General
- Check for carbon monoxide detectors on every level
- Inspect for visible mold, water stains, or musty odors
- Verify the home's connection to a regulated public water system
Data Sources
- Water quality: EPA SDWIS
- Lead: EPA Lead and Copper Rule
- Flood: FEMA NFIP
- Radon: EPA Radon Zones
- Air quality: EPA AirNow
- Home values: U.S. Census Bureau ACS B25077
- Remediation costs: National cost model (EPA, Census, FEMA data)
Updated daily.
Water Quality Map: Cary, NC
Each dot represents a ZIP code. Color indicates water quality grade. Tap a dot for details.
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