Updated: February 27, 2025
If you are suddenly starting to consider moving to Raleigh, you are looking at one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. Raleigh combines a high standard of living with a promising job market and fairly affordable housing. The city also ranked 7th among the happiest cities in the United States (SmartAsset, 2024)
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A Brief Overview of Raleigh
Thousands of people move to Raleigh every year. Raleigh has the vibrancy of a big city and the coziness of a small community. The city's population is 470,000, and the entire Wake County population is about 1.15 million people
The city's growth is attributed to a growing technology sector and job growth, more affordable housing prices than larger metropolitan areas, a mild climate and good living conditions. Leading universities such as NC State, Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill also play an important role.
Comparison: Fastest-Growing Cities in the U.S. (2024)
| City | Population Growth (2010-2024) | Median Home Price (2024) | Median Salary (2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh, NC | +20% | $442,333 | $65,000 |
| Austin, TX | +22% | $589,000 | $71,000 |
| Charlotte, NC | +19% | $420,500 | $62,500 |
| Nashville, TN | +18% | $465,000 | $63,500 |
The labor market in Raleigh continues to grow.
The unemployment rate as of 2024 is 2.9%, which is below the national average. Over the next ten years, the number of jobs in Raleigh will increase by 44.2%, compared to the U.S. average forecast of 33.5%. Meanwhile, 37% of professionals work at least partially remotely.
Average job satisfaction, according to Glassdoor, is 3.3 out of 5. High salaries are earned by professionals in IT, medicine, finance, and biotechnology. The median salary in Raleigh is $57,817.
Despite rising housing prices, living in Raleigh is less expensive than in major tech centers like San Francisco and Austin. Average expenses include utility bills of $162 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, public transportation costs $2.30 per trip, and grocery prices are 8% lower than the national average.
For those considering a move, it's important to keep in mind that housing costs in the city are gradually increasing due to population growth. However, overall, Raleigh remains one of the most affordable cities to live in when compared to other tech centers.
Cost of Living Comparison (2024 Data)
| City | Median Home Price | Average Rent (2BR) | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh, NC | $442,333 | $1,577 | 105.8 |
| Charlotte, NC | $420,500 | $1,512 | 104.6 |
| Austin, TX | $589,000 | $1,980 | 124.2 |
| Atlanta, GA | $465,000 | $1,720 | 113.5 |
Home rentals in Raleigh (2024)
The average rent for a studio is $1,325 per month, a one-bedroom apartment is $1,577, a two-bedroom is $1,850, and a three-bedroom is $2,400. Over the year, prices increased 3.8-5.1 percent depending on the type of housing.
In affordable neighborhoods like Knightdale, Garner and Wake Forest, renting a two-bedroom apartment will cost $1,400-$1,800. In upscale neighborhoods like North Hills and downtown, costs start at $2,000. Luxury housing in Midtown, Brier Creek and Cary costs from $2,400 for a one-bedroom apartment.
Buying a home in Raleigh (2024)
If you're ready to think about buying a home rather than just renting, the median home price is $442,333, which is generally comparable to the U.S. average of $436,000 The interest rate on a 30-year mortgage is 6.5% and the average monthly payment is about $2,850. Property taxes in Raleigh are lower than the national average at 0.86% vs. 1.1%.
Utilities, Transportation and Food
The average electric and heating bill for a 1,000 square foot apartment is $162 per month. Water and sewer costs $70, and high-speed internet costs between $65 and $85. Gasoline in Raleigh costs about $2.7 a gallon. A bus ticket will cost $2.3. A commuter train ride between Raleigh and Charlotte costs about $6. An Uber ride to the airport can cost between $20 and $50 depending on the time of day.
Food and grocery costs in Raleigh (2024 averages):
| Item | Raleigh Price | U.S. Average |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (1 gallon) | $3.60 | $4.00 |
| Dozen Eggs | $4.00 | $4.50 |
| Chicken Breast (1 lb) | $5.50 | $6.00 |
| Bread (Loaf) | $4.00 | $4.20 |
| Fast Food Meal | $11.00 | $12.00 |
What's the deal with traveling around the city?
If you own a car, you should keep in mind that most of the city's residents also have a personal vehicle, which leads to a gradual increase in traffic congestion. Parking lots are plentiful in the city, but the closer to the center, the higher the cost of parking. On average, parking will cost you 1.5-2.5 dollars per hour. A monthly fee will be $100-150 dollars
There is public transportation in Raleigh, but it is not as developed as in large cities. The city is trying to fix this - they are launching new bus routes and working to improve rail service. For example, GoRaleigh buses run throughout the city and serve major neighborhoods. If you need to get to neighboring towns - Durham, Chapel Hill or RTP, there are GoTriangle buses. There are also routes to the airport. The lack of public transportation is evident in the schedules. It is not excluded situations when you will have to wait for a bus for 30-40 minutes. We advise you to check the schedule in advance.
In Raleigh there is an Amtrak train station, from where you can leave to Charlotte, Richmond, Washington and even New York. Trains run several times a day.
Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) is actively growing. They have now added new flights to Paris, Seattle, and San Francisco, for example. In the future, they plan to expand terminals and improve transportation to the airport.Crime and Safety in Raleigh: Recent Trends and Protective Measures
Where is the Best Place to Live in Raleigh? Best Neighborhoods in 2024
Raleigh offers a wide variety of neighborhoods, from bustling urban neighborhoods to quiet suburban communities. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or a retiree, there's the perfect neighborhood for your lifestyle.
Below we list the best neighborhoods to live in Raleigh based on home prices, crime rates, school ratings, and walkability to help you find the perfect place to live.
Top Neighborhoods in Raleigh (Who They’re Best For)
Comparison Table: Raleigh’s Best Neighborhoods
| Neighborhood | Best For | Median Home Price (2024) | Walkability | Crime Rate | School Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Raleigh | Young Professionals, City Lovers | $550,000 | 90/100 | Moderate | 6-7/10 |
| North Hills | Luxury Living, Walkability | $725,000 | 85/100 | Low | 8/10 |
| Cary | Families, Top Schools | $595,000 | 70/100 | Very Low | 9/10 |
| Apex | Suburban Life, New Homes | $540,000 | 65/100 | Low | 8/10 |
| Wake Forest | Nature Lovers, Affordability | $485,000 | 50/100 | Low | 7-8/10 |
| Garner | Budget-Friendly, Commuters | $420,000 | 45/100 | Moderate | 6-7/10 |
The best schools in Raleigh: How to choose the right fit
Raleigh offers one of the strongest school systems in North Carolina. It is home to prestigious public schools, top private institutions, and major universities. Whether you're moving to the city and choosing a school for your child or considering your options for higher education, this information will help you understand your options.
| School Name | Type | Grade Level | GreatSchools Rating | Test Scores (Proficiency %) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Hope High School | Public | 9-12 | ⭐ 9/10 | Math: 85%, Reading: 82% |
| Panther Creek High School | Public | 9-12 | ⭐ 9/10 | Math: 83%, Reading: 80% |
| Wake NCSU STEM Early College | Magnet | 9-12 | ⭐ 10/10 | Math: 90%, Reading: 88% |
| Mills Park Middle School | Public | 6-8 | ⭐ 9/10 | Math: 89%, Reading: 85% |
| Pleasant Union Elementary | Public | K-5 | ⭐ 8/10 | Math: 81%, Reading: 79% |
Charter, Magnet & Special Programs
| School Type | Description | Who It's Best For? |
|---|---|---|
| Public Schools | Standard government-funded schools. | General education for all students. |
| Magnet Schools | Specialized public schools with themes (STEM, arts, IB). | Families looking for advanced programs. |
| Charter Schools | Publicly funded but independently operated. | Students needing alternative learning models. |
| Private Schools | Tuition-based schools with unique curriculums. | Families looking for religious or elite education. |
Higher Education: Colleges and Universities in Raleigh
| University | Specialties | Average Tuition (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| NC State University | Engineering, Business, Agriculture | $9,130 (In-State) |
| Duke University | Law, Medicine, Business | $62,688 |
| UNC-Chapel Hill | Medicine, Journalism, Law | $9,028 (In-State) |
| Meredith College | Liberal Arts, Business, Education | $42,360 |
How to deal with school zoning in Raleigh
Wake County has a non-standardized student assignment system, and schools are not always tied to the nearest home. To avoid surprises, it's important to check ahead of time to see which school your child can attend.
How to find out your school district
- Use the official school search tool on the WCPSS website.
- Note the difference between the traditional and year-round school calendar.
- Some districts have multiple schools available - check before purchasing a home.
Important: Check school zoning before purchasing a home to make sure the school of your choice is actually available for your address.
Security
Raleigh remains one of the safest large cities in North Carolina, despite having some crime problems. In 2024, the violent crime rate here is lower than the state and national averages, with 270 incidents per 100,000 residents, compared to the North Carolina and U.S. averages of 410 and 380, respectively. Property crimes, including theft and auto theft, are more common but remain lower than in cities like Charlotte and Durham.
Raleigh's crime situation has improved since 2022 due to increased policing and community engagement. The city is actively developing neighborhood watch programs and implementing initiatives to improve public safety. The Raleigh Police Department works closely with residents and businesses to prevent crime, and additional surveillance cameras and patrols have been installed in the downtown area.
In addition, Raleigh is focusing on crime prevention through the principles of environmental design (CPTED). Improving street lighting, installing additional cameras, and making pedestrian areas safer reduce crime in key neighborhoods. These comprehensive measures make Raleigh a comfortable and safe place to live and work.
The best parks, greenways, and recreational facilities in Raleigh
Raleigh isn't called the City of Oaks for nothing - there are plenty of parks, lakes, and over 100 miles of green trails. If you want to spend time outdoors, Raleigh has some great places to relax.
- One of the most popular is William B. Umstead State Park. It can be called the perfect place for hiking, biking, and camping. It is only 10 minutes from the city center and offers beautiful wooded trails where you can feel away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Dorothea Dix Park is a great place for picnics and festivals. The views of downtown Raleigh from here are stunning, especially at sunset. There are often different events going on here, so you can not only relax, but also get in on something interesting.
- Lake Johnson Park will appeal to those who love water activities. Here you can kayak, fish, or just stroll along the scenic trails along the lake. The park is located in southern Raleigh and is great for a relaxing vacation.
- The Neuse River Greenway is a find for long bike rides and jogging enthusiasts. This green space on the east side of the city stretches for miles along the river, so you can enjoy nature and a nice car-free path.
- Pullen Park - suitable for families. There is a carousel, amusement rides and many areas for walking. We advise you to come here with children.
Raleigh's Culinary Scene: restaurants, food trucks and craft beer
Raleigh is deservedly ranked among the top gastronomic destinations by Southern Living. The city is home to more than 1,200 restaurants and more than 285 food trucks serving dishes ranging from traditional Southern barbecue to signature cuisine from around the world. Some of the most popular establishments include the iconic steakhouse Angus Barn, Laotian restaurant Bida Manda, famed vegetarian The Fiction Kitchen and, of course, The Pit, which serves the best barbecue downtown.
Street food lovers will find plenty of interesting locations, including the Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo, the largest gathering of food trucks in North Carolina, the indoor Morgan Street Food Hall and the atmospheric Boxyard RTP, an outdoor food experience.
Craft beer is an integral part of the city's culture. Raleigh is home to dozens of breweries, notable among them Trophy Brewing with its perfect blend of pizza and beer, the bicycle culture themed Crank Arm Brewing, and Raleigh Beer Garden, recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the largest draft-beer selection.
Nightlife and cultural venues
Raleigh offers a variety of nightlife options, combining energetic nightlife with a cozy atmosphere. Live music lovers can head to Red Hat Amphitheater for big concerts, The Ritz for big-name bands, Lincoln Theatre for alternative and indie shows, or Pour House Music Hall for local bands.
The main areas for nightlife are Glenwood South with trendy bars and clubs, Fayetteville Street for stylish cocktail bars, and the Warehouse District known for its art spaces and live performances.
Art connoisseurs will appreciate the North Carolina Museum of Art's collection of nationally recognized exhibitions, and the Duke Energy Center offers performances of ballet, opera and Broadway shows.
Raleigh Weather: Distribution of seasons, weather extremes and climate trends
The city of Raleigh, North Carolina, has four distinct seasons: warm summers, mild winters, and colorful fall foliage. Whether you're planning to relocate or are just arriving, understanding climate patterns, extreme weather risks, and the best seasons will help you prepare for life in the City of Oaks.
| Season | Avg. High Temp (°F) | Avg. Low Temp (°F) | Rainfall (inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 50-55°F | 30-35°F | 8-10 in | Occasional snow, mild compared to northern states. |
| Spring (Mar-May) | 65-75°F | 40-55°F | 10-12 in | Pleasant, with blooming flowers and moderate rainfall. |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 85-95°F | 65-75°F | 12-14 in | Hot, humid, with thunderstorms and occasional hurricanes. |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 65-80°F | 45-55°F | 9-11 in | Crisp air, stunning fall foliage, mild weather. |
A Step-by-step Guide to Moving to Raleigh.
A few months before you move, it's a good idea to start by researching the city's neighbourhoods. It's helpful to look at housing on sites like Zillow and Realtor.com, or better yet, talk to local realtors to learn the ins and outs. Make a budget that takes into account not only rent, but also possible deposits, utilities, and other expenses. If you can, visit Raleigh beforehand to get a feel for the city and choose a comfortable place to live.
A month or two before the move, it's time to start tackling moving your belongings. Determine what you really need to take with you and what you can sell or give away. Hire a moving company and arrange a moving date in advance. Finalise the housing paperwork so that everything is ready to move in.
When the move gets closer it's time to concentrate maximum energy on it. Transfer your utilities to your new address so you'll have light and water on move-in day. Start packing, sign boxes so you don't have to search for the right things in the chaos later. Check all the details with the movers and the landlord to avoid unpleasant surprises.
In the last week, pack a separate bag with things that will be useful for the first few days - chargers, documents, toiletries and some food. Before you leave, go through your old flat one more time and make sure you haven't forgotten anything. Pick up the keys to your new place - and welcome to Raleigh!
How to avoid common mistakes
It's important to consider not only the obvious costs, but also the extras. For example, a security deposit for housing, HOA fees, or insurance. Depending on the distance, moving can cost anywhere from $250-$500 for a local move to $3,500-$7,500 for a long-distance move.
If you're going to live in the suburbs, like Apex or Holly Springs, check ahead of time how long it will take to get to work or downtown. Sometimes traffic can be a nasty surprise.
Don't forget to get moving insurance to protect your belongings from possible damage or loss. It's a small expense that can save you a lot of stress.