Let the numbers do the talking.
Durham, NC vs Wilson, NC
Durham, NC vs Wilson, NC: What the data shows
Durham, NC is in Durham, NC while Wilson, NC is in Wilson, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Wilson, NC is the more affordable option at $135,000 median — $285,000 less than Durham, NC's $420,000. WYLT rates Durham, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Wilson, NC as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Durham, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Wilson, NC has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Durham, NC has Low flood risk and Wilson, NC has Low flood risk.
Wilson, NC is the more walkable neighborhood. Durham, NC scores N/A/100 versus Wilson, NC's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Wilson, NC has the higher school rating — Durham, NC rates 6.2/10 and Wilson, NC rates 6.4/10.
| Category | Durham, NC | Wilson, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $420K | $135K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $824 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $75K ✓ Higher income | $38K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 2/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 2/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 50 min ✓ Shorter commute | 90 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.2/10 | 6.4/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workersThose who value a relatively low cost of living | First-time home buyers on a budgetFamilies seeking affordable housingPeople who are comfortable driving for most errands |
Bottom line
If you value a relatively low cost of living and are willing to sacrifice walkability and commute time, Wilson, NC might be a good choice for first-time home buyers on a budget. However, if you prioritize better schools, a relatively low crime rate, and a more balanced lifestyle, Durham, NC is a safer bet for remote workers and families. Between the two, Durham's overall quality of life and amenities make it a more suitable choice for those who can afford it.
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