Let the numbers do the talking.
Durham, NC vs Raleigh, NC
Durham, NC vs Raleigh, NC: What the data shows
Durham, NC is in Durham, NC while Raleigh, NC is in Raleigh, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Durham, NC is the more affordable option at $363,000 median — $475,600 less than Raleigh, NC's $838,600. WYLT rates Durham, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Raleigh, NC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Durham, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Durham, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Raleigh, NC has High violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Durham, NC has Low flood risk and Raleigh, NC has Low flood risk.
Durham, NC is the more walkable neighborhood. Durham, NC scores 27/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Raleigh, NC's 25/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Raleigh, NC has the higher school rating — Durham, NC rates 6.2/10 and Raleigh, NC rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Durham, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $363K ✓ Lower price | $839K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $66K | $148K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate ✓ More stable | High |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 27/100 ✓ More walkable | 25/100 |
| Transit Score | 28/100 | 33/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 41 min | 7 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ ✓ Safer | F |
| Violent Crime | Moderate ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.2/10 | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsRemote Workers | High income professionalsFamilies seeking good schoolsRemote workers who can work from home |
Bottom line
Durham 27705 is a better fit for anyone who values affordability, flexibility in work arrangements, or a family-friendly environment, but may not be ideal for those who prioritize being within walking distance to amenities. Raleigh is more suitable for high-income professionals or families who can afford the premium prices for access to excellent schools and low crime rates, but may not be the best option for those on a budget or seeking a more walkable lifestyle. Overall, Durham's trade-offs may be too great for the financially secure, while Raleigh's drawbacks may be too costly for most others.
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