Let the numbers do the talking.
Aberdeen, NC vs Durham, NC
Aberdeen, NC vs Durham, NC: What the data shows
Aberdeen, NC is in Aberdeen, NC while Durham, NC is in Durham, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Aberdeen, NC is the more affordable option at $150,000 median — $264,100 less than Durham, NC's $414,100. WYLT rates Aberdeen, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Durham, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Aberdeen, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Aberdeen, NC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Durham, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Aberdeen, NC has Low flood risk and Durham, NC has Low flood risk.
Durham, NC is the more walkable neighborhood. Aberdeen, NC scores 0.5/100 (car-dependent) versus Durham, NC's 55/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Durham, NC has the higher school rating — Aberdeen, NC rates N/A and Durham, NC rates 6.4/10.
| Category | Aberdeen, NC | Durham, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $150K ✓ Lower price | $414K |
| Median Rent | $800 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $45K | $61K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 0.5/100 | 55/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 0.2/100 | 58/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 36/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 90 min | 37 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | N/A | 6.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | First-time homebuyersFamilies with young childrenCommuters to Raleigh | young professionalsremote workersstudents |
Bottom line
For commuters who prioritize owning a home and don't need immediate job opportunities, Aberdeen offers a relatively affordable option with decent commute times to Raleigh, but it lacks good schools, decent walkability, and abundant job market opportunities. In contrast, Durham provides a more balanced living experience with good schools, a vibrant culture, and growing remote-work possibilities, but its lower walk score, moderate crime, and rising costs may deter some homebuyers. Overall, Aberdeen suits families or first-time homebuyers prioritizing affordability and homeownership, while Durham is more suitable for young professionals, remote workers, or those seeking a city experience.
Share this comparison