Let the numbers do the talking.
Chapel Hill, NC vs Durham, NC
Chapel Hill, NC vs Durham, NC: What the data shows
Chapel Hill, NC is in Chapel Hill, NC while Durham, NC is in Durham, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Durham, NC is the more affordable option at $420,000 median — $172,900 less than Chapel Hill, NC's $592,900. WYLT rates Chapel Hill, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Durham, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Chapel Hill, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Durham, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Chapel Hill, NC has Low flood risk and Durham, NC has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Chapel Hill, NC has the higher school rating — Chapel Hill, NC rates 7.1/10 and Durham, NC rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Chapel Hill, NC | Durham, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $593K | $420K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $98K ✓ Higher income | $75K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 24/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 42 min ✓ Shorter commute | 50 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | College studentsAcademicsFamilies with high income | FamiliesRemote workersThose who value a relatively low cost of living |
Bottom line
If your budget allows and you prioritize top-rated schools and a vibrant cultural scene, Chapel Hill offers the better value despite its car‑centric nature. If you’re looking for a lower median home price and still decent schools, Durham is a more affordable choice. Both neighborhoods lack walkability and rely heavily on cars, so that trade‑off is common to both.
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