Let the numbers do the talking.
Durham, NC vs Hillsborough, NC
Durham, NC vs Hillsborough, NC: What the data shows
Durham, NC is in Durham, NC while Hillsborough, NC is in Hillsborough, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Hillsborough, NC is the more affordable option at $285,000 median — $135,000 less than Durham, NC's $420,000. WYLT rates Durham, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Hillsborough, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Hillsborough, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Durham, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Hillsborough, NC has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Durham, NC has Low flood risk and Hillsborough, NC has Low flood risk.
Hillsborough, NC is the more walkable neighborhood. Durham, NC scores N/A/100 versus Hillsborough, NC's 29/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Hillsborough, NC has the higher school rating — Durham, NC rates 6.2/10 and Hillsborough, NC rates 7.4/10.
| Category | Durham, NC | Hillsborough, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $420K | $285K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $75K | $78K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 29/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 2/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 50 min ✓ Shorter commute | 53 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.2/10 | 7.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersThose who value a relatively low cost of living | Families with childrenSuburban commuters to RaleighStudents and staff of Orange County Schools |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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