If you’re looking to settle down in the Raleigh area, you’re not alone. As part of the thriving Research Triangle, Raleigh boasts a blend of vibrant city living and laid-back suburban charm. For many, the surrounding suburbs offer the perfect balance of convenience, community, and access to all the Triangle has to offer. Here, we dive into the top 10 Raleigh suburbs, providing insights into housing costs, schools, and local highlights to help you find your ideal neighborhood.
1. Cary, NC
Located just west of Raleigh, Cary is a thriving suburb known for its high-quality schools, low crime rates, and extensive green spaces. Cary offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, retail hubs, and office parks, making it popular for professionals and families alike. Its convenient proximity to Research Triangle Park (RTP) makes it an ideal location for those working in tech or healthcare.
- Median Home Price: $590,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,700/month
- Population: 176,987
- Known For: Exceptional schools, safe neighborhoods, and a strong job market.
- School Level: Top-rated in the state; part of Wake County Schools.
- Transportation Level: Well-connected with highways and public transit options.
- Tips: Cary’s proximity to RTP makes it ideal for professionals in tech and healthcare.
2. Apex, NC
Apex is a charming town that prides itself on a close-knit community and a historic downtown area filled with quaint shops and eateries. Known as the “Peak of Good Living,” Apex offers an excellent quality of life with plenty of recreational spaces, highly-rated schools, and a strong community spirit. This suburb is perfect for those seeking a small-town feel with modern amenities.
- Median Home Price: $580,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,500/month
- Population: 66,000
- Known For: A family-friendly atmosphere with a small-town vibe.
- School Level: Highly rated schools within Wake County.
- Transportation Level: Car-friendly, but limited public transit.
- Tips: Check out historic downtown Apex for a mix of charming shops and restaurants.
3. Holly Springs, NC
Holly Springs is a growing community known for its beautiful parks, family-friendly events, and excellent school system. It offers a balance of suburban living with quick access to city amenities, making it popular among young families. This rapidly developing town has several new housing developments and retail options, and it’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and community events.
- Median Home Price: $500,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,600/month
- Population: 41,239
- Known For: Growing community with parks, lakes, and excellent schools.
- School Level: Strong public schools with high graduation rates.
- Transportation Level: Primarily car-dependent.
- Tips: Holly Springs offers the tranquility of suburban life with easy access to RTP.
4. Morrisville, NC
Morrisville sits at the heart of the Triangle and is home to a highly diverse community, largely due to its close proximity to Research Triangle Park and RDU International Airport. Morrisville offers a blend of residential, commercial, and corporate spaces, catering to professionals, families, and frequent travelers. The town has a strong focus on community activities, making it a lively and engaging place to live.
- Median Home Price: $500,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,650/month
- Population: 31,278
- Known For: Diverse, tech-oriented community near RTP.
- School Level: Part of Wake County with high-quality schools.
- Transportation Level: Excellent highway access and proximity to RDU Airport.
- Tips: Ideal for those working in RTP or frequent travelers due to proximity to the airport.
5. Wake Forest, NC
Wake Forest combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering scenic parks, historic sites, and a vibrant downtown area. Known for its beautiful landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, Wake Forest is great for families looking for a quieter place to live with access to high-quality schools and recreational areas.
- Median Home Price: $450,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,500/month
- Population: 47,601
- Known For: Historic charm, outdoor activities, and a welcoming community.
- School Level: Strong schools, especially known for STEM programs.
- Transportation Level: Primarily car-dependent, limited public transit.
- Tips: The Falls Lake area provides great spots for hiking, boating, and fishing.
6. Fuquay-Varina, NC
Fuquay-Varina offers small-town charm with affordable housing options, and it has become increasingly popular among families and young professionals. The town has two distinct historic districts, plenty of parks, and a growing restaurant scene. Its affordable cost of living and welcoming community make it a great choice for those wanting to stay close to Raleigh without the urban bustle.
- Median Home Price: $400,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,300/month
- Population: 34,152
- Known For: Small-town charm and affordable housing.
- School Level: Good schools with a focus on community and student involvement.
- Transportation Level: Mostly car-dependent.
- Tips: The historic downtown area offers unique shopping and dining.
7. Knightdale, NC
Knightdale is a rapidly growing town that offers affordable housing and family-friendly amenities. It’s located just east of Raleigh, giving residents a short commute to the city. The town features parks, new shopping centers, and a variety of housing developments, making it an appealing choice for newcomers seeking a suburban feel with easy city access.
- Median Home Price: $380,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,400/month
- Population: 19,435
- Known For: Rapid growth and family-friendly amenities.
- School Level: Part of Wake County with improving school options.
- Transportation Level: Growing public transit access, close to I-540.
- Tips: Knightdale Station Park is a favorite for outdoor events and community gatherings.
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8. Garner, NC
Garner offers a blend of suburban comfort and easy access to downtown Raleigh, making it a convenient choice for those who want proximity to the city without the high cost. Garner is known for its affordable housing and strong sense of community, with local events and activities that foster a welcoming atmosphere for families.
- Median Home Price: $385,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,350/month
- Population: 31,407
- Known For: Affordable housing and proximity to downtown Raleigh.
- School Level: Part of Wake County Schools, with good public school options.
- Transportation Level: Convenient highway access.
- Tips: Garner’s growth in recent years makes it appealing to newcomers who want suburban living close to the city.
9. Clayton, NC
Clayton offers a relaxed, small-town feel with easy access to Raleigh and RTP. This affordable suburb is known for its friendly community and local events, including farmers’ markets, festivals, and a vibrant arts scene. It’s a great choice for those looking for affordable housing with a close-knit community feel.
- Median Home Price: $375,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,300/month
- Population: 24,887
- Known For: A quiet, affordable community with a welcoming vibe.
- School Level: Johnston County Schools, with strong options for families.
- Transportation Level: Car-dependent, with good road access.
- Tips: Known for local breweries, and it’s just a short drive from the Raleigh-Durham area.
10. Chapel Hill, NC
Chapel Hill is a vibrant college town known for its progressive atmosphere, cultural scene, and proximity to the University of North Carolina. It offers excellent schools, a diverse community, and an abundance of recreational and cultural activities, making it an ideal place for families looking for a lively, education-focused environment.
- Median Home Price: $650,000
- Median Rent Price: $1,800/month
- Population: 63,705
- Known For: A vibrant university town with a progressive atmosphere.
- School Level: Excellent public and private school options, part of Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools.
- Transportation Level: Well-connected, including bus services by Chapel Hill Transit.
- Tips: Chapel Hill is ideal for families valuing education and a lively cultural scene.
About Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, North Carolina’s capital city, is one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, offering a unique blend of Southern charm and modern amenities. Known as the “City of Oaks” for its abundant oak trees, Raleigh is part of the renowned Research Triangle and home to a strong economy fueled by tech, healthcare, and education. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, access to top-rated universities like North Carolina State, and vibrant entertainment options, from museums and galleries to sports arenas and green spaces.
Its proximity to other major cities like Durham and Chapel Hill makes Raleigh an appealing base for professionals and families alike. With excellent public schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and short commutes to the Triangle’s numerous tech and research companies, Raleigh consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the U.S.