Let the numbers do the talking.
Hillsborough, NC vs Raleigh, NC
Hillsborough, NC vs Raleigh, NC: What the data shows
Hillsborough, NC is in Hillsborough, NC while Raleigh, NC is in Raleigh, NC — both in the same state. On home prices, Hillsborough, NC is the more affordable option at $285,000 median — $55,000 less than Raleigh, NC's $340,000. WYLT rates Hillsborough, NC as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Raleigh, NC as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Raleigh, NC has the stronger safety profile of the two. Hillsborough, NC has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Raleigh, NC has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Hillsborough, NC has Low flood risk and Raleigh, NC has Low flood risk.
Hillsborough, NC is the more walkable neighborhood. Hillsborough, NC scores 29/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Raleigh, NC's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Raleigh, NC has the higher school rating — Hillsborough, NC rates 7.4/10 and Raleigh, NC rates 7.5/10.
| Category | Hillsborough, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $285K ✓ Lower price | $340K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $78K ✓ Higher income | $67K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Low ✓ More stable |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 29/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 1/100 | 17/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 2/100 | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 53 min | 12 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.4/10 | 7.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with childrenSuburban commuters to RaleighStudents and staff of Orange County Schools | Families with young childrenProfessionals with commutable work within downtown RaleighStudents who prefer a suburban environment |
Bottom line
Bottom line: For families who want a more convenient, walkable environment and a slightly higher median home price, Raleigh 27606 is the better choice, offering better access to grocery stores, schools, and a short 12‑minute commute into downtown. Hillsborough is a solid, lower‑priced option for those who prioritize a quiet, small‑town feel and are comfortable with car dependence and a longer commute.
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