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Best Neighborhoods in Clayton, NC
Are you searching for the best neighborhoods in Clayton, NC? If you are moving to Clayton, check out these top ten neighborhoods!
Clayton's evolution from a small railroad town to a vibrant suburban destination has created a diverse and thriving community. As one of the Triangle's most desirable places to live, many homebuyers are choosing to call Clayton home for its affordable real estate and small-town charm.
Located just 20 minutes southeast of Raleigh, this thriving community provides residents with excellent schools, modern amenities, and easy access to urban conveniences and natural beauty.
Featuring golf course communities, planned developments, and neighborhoods with large lots, Clayton offers more affordable alternatives to pricier Raleigh suburbs without sacrificing the quality of life.
New subdivisions constantly appear throughout Clayton, while established subdivisions open new phases to keep up with the demand. Re-sale homes are available in various price ranges and conditions.
One of the biggest reasons for the area's increased population growth is the growing biotechnology industry and job opportunities in Clayton and the surrounding Triangle area.
Growing at a rate of 3.74% annually, Clayton has doubled its population since 2000 and is the fastest-growing town in Johnston County. Home to 31,732 residents, it is no wonder that Clayton is considered a top 5 booming housing market in North Carolina.
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, growing family, retiree, or looking for luxury living, Clayton's neighborhoods offer something for everyone. Here are the ten best neighborhoods that make Clayton an attractive destination for new residents.
Here are the best places to live in Clayton
1. Flowers Plantation
Flowers Plantation is one of the largest residential developments in the Triangle, offering homes for first-time home buyers to custom-built executive homes and lots in between.
Standing out as Clayton's premier master-planned community, Flowers Plantation sprawls across 3,000 acres of thoughtfully designed living spaces. This isn't just a neighborhood, its a lifestyle destination.
As one of the best neighborhoods in Clayton, the community focuses on walkability with sidewalks connecting residential areas and neighborhood amenities.
The variety of housing types makes it accessible to buyers at different life stages, from young professionals to established families. Featuring entry-level townhomes to beautiful single-family homes in Flowers Plantation, some sections are even gated to provide additional privacy and security.
What Makes it Special:
- 20 miles of paved walking trails wind throughout the community, perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls
- On-site YMCA offers extensive programming for adults and children
- Commercial district with shopping, dining, and retail right within the community
- Waterfront district currently under construction, set to open in 2025
2. Riverwood
Riverwood is the name of two neighborhoods in Clayton, Riverwood Athletic Club and Riverwood Golf. Riverwood Athletic Club is a large, planned development with many phases and types of housing.
For families seeking resort-style living at an affordable price point, Riverwood Athletic Club delivers exceptional value. The community's crown jewel is its state-of-the-art athletic facility, included in every resident's HOA dues.
Homes for sale in Riverwood Athletic Club range between $230,000 and $550,000 and range between 1,200 and 3,600 square feet. Featuring four swimming pools, playgrounds, fitness classes, and walking trails that connect to the Neuse River Greenway, there are plenty of recreational opportunities available in this neighborhood.
What Makes it Special:
- Full-service fitness center with high-quality equipment
- Four swimming pools: three outdoor pools plus one indoor 25-yard competition pool
- 67-foot waterslide that's a hit with kids and adults alike
- Fitness classes and group exercise programs
- On-site childcare during workout hours
- Spraygrounds and playgrounds for family fun
The Riverwood Golf Club on the other hand offers the quintessential golf community experience, with nearly every home positioned to take advantage of golf course views. The community surrounds an 18-hole championship golf course designed for players of all skill levels.
Real estate in the Riverwood Golf Club appeals to golf enthusiasts and those who appreciate the open space and scenic beauty that golf course living provides. The larger lot sizes offer privacy and room for outdoor activities.
What makes it Special:
- Golf course views from almost every property
- Generous lot sizes averaging around one acre
- Clubhouse access with dining and event facilities
- Community pool for non-golf recreation
- Mature trees and established landscaping
- Wide range of home styles from cozy family homes to estate properties
3. Portofino
Portofino offers a unique luxury living experience centered around its world-class equestrian facilities. This gated community sits adjacent to the Neuse River, providing both privacy and natural beauty.
This neighborhood features a world-class horse barn and show rings, along with cross-country fences making this the ideal neighborhood for horse enthusiasts.
Built on hundreds of wooded acres along the Neuse River, the development has preserved many natural elements while providing bike and walking trails, canoe access on the river, and ponds for fishing. The magnificent clubhouse and pool reserved for Portofino residents is used for community cookouts, birthday parties, and the occasional wedding.
The homes in Portofino were built between 2008 and 2023 and range between $500,000 and $1.5 million. This Clayton neighborhood is perfect for homebuyers searching for a private living experience.
What Makes it Special:
- On-site Portofino Equestrian Center with reduced boarding rates for residents
- Piazza at Portofino event venue for community gatherings and private events
- 7 miles of nature trails perfect for hiking and horseback riding
- Private fishing pond stocked for residents' use
- Two swimming pools including a resort-style pool
- Large wooded lots ranging from half-acre to over an acre
4. Glen Laurel
Glen Laurel has long been the top neighborhood in Clayton for higher-end custom-built homes. Built around the Neuse Country Club, this established golf community sits along the Neuse River, offering residents direct access to both river recreation and golf.
Sought after for its waterfront living at reasonable prices, the Glen Laurel community is perfect for retirees and families alike who want to enjoy North Carolina's natural beauty.
Located five minutes from downtown Clayton and its many amenities, residents enjoy easy access to restaurants, shopping, and fun things to do. Most homes in this community were built between 2004 and 2018, many of which are updated.
What Makes it Special:
- Direct river access from select lots with private docks available
- Golf course views from many homes backing to Neuse Country Club
- Neuse River Greenway access for walking, cycling, and nature observation
- Mature landscaping creates a sense of established luxury
- Sidewalks throughout promote neighborhood walkability
5. Wellesley
Wellesley is one of the best places to live in Clayton for its contemporary design and prime real estate. Most homes here are custom-built with large front porches and energy-efficient features.
Located within the heart of Clayton, this master planned community is ideal for families with its low crime rate, affordable single-family homes, local amenities, access to top-rated schools, and green spaces.
What Makes it Special:
- Four tennis courts professionally maintained for residents
- Basketball court provides additional recreational options
- Community pool serves as a social hub during summer months
- Large pond with paved walking trail offers scenic exercise opportunities
- Two distinct sections: smaller intimate lots and spacious estate-sized properties
- Pond-view homes available in select locations
6. Tuscany
Tuscany is a an affordable family community of single-family homes located on Highway 42 East, just minutes from Downtown Clayton, Flowers Plantation, and the Portofino equestrian community.
Providing upscale surroundings at affordable price points, Tuscany was designed with an emphasis on family life and recreational activities. With reasonable HOA fees, Tuscany is ideal for homebuyers of all ages.
What Makes it Special:
- Community pool complex with lap pool and kiddie pool
- Playground facilities designed for different age groups
- Clubhouse available for resident events and gatherings
- Sidewalks throughout promoting safe walking and cycling
- Two distinct sections: larger lots for more space, smaller lots for affordability
- Many homes feature in-ground pools on larger lots
7. Academy Pointe
Academy Pointe is a newer community in Clayton that brings urban conveniences to Clayton's suburban setting. Walkable to downtown Clayton's growing cultural and dining scene, it is easy to get around this neighborhood and take advantage of its many amenities.
Academy Pointe homes are perfect for first-time homebuyers, young professionals, or empty nesters who prefer maintenance-free living. The walkable location reduces dependence on driving for daily activities and lowers commute times.
What Makes it Special:
- Walking distance to downtown Clayton with shops, restaurants, and cafes
- Bronze membership to Fred Smith Athletic Clubs included in HOA fees
- Access to golf, pools, and fitness classes through club membership
- On-site nursery available through athletic club
- Compact lot sizes promote community interaction
- New construction with modern efficiency and design
8. Knolls at the Neuse
Knolls at the Neuse provides direct access to the Neuse River while maintaining reasonable price points. The community's location offers both natural recreation and convenience to area attractions.
Attracting outdoor enthusiasts and families who want to take advantage of water recreation and breathtaking views. Offering ranch style and two-story homes, the homes in Knolls at the Neuse are reasonably priced in a serene environment just minutes from downtown Clayton.
What Makes it Special:
- Direct Neuse River access for kayaking, fishing, and boating
- Neuse River Greenway connection for walking and cycling
- Neuse River Racquet Club at neighborhood entrance with tennis courts and pool
- Walking trails leading directly to the river
- Community pool for residents
- Varied lot sizes accommodating different lifestyle preferences
9. Austin Pond
Austin Pond communities offer a more secluded, natural living experience centered around a private lake. The neighborhood's design emphasizes privacy and outdoor recreation.
The community appeals to those seeking a more rural feel while remaining close to Clayton's amenities. The absence of HOA fees provides flexibility for homeowners who want to customize their properties.
This stunning neighborhood features single-family homes that are reasonably priced and offers residents a close and tight-knit community feel. An ideal place to live for families, the properties in Austin Pond make it a top-rated Clayton neighborhood.
What Makes it Special:
- Private pond access with docks available for select homes
- Kayaking and fishing on the community lake
- Heavily wooded lots providing natural privacy
- No HOA fees allowing more freedom in property use
- Clubhouse and lap pool for community gatherings
- Two distinct sections: Austin Pond and the more exclusive Bluffs
10. San Marino
San Marino offers the perfect combination of convenience, value, and modern living in Clayton. This newer community provides easy access to amenitites while maintaining the suburban charm that makes Clayton attractive to families and professionals.
The proximity to major shopping, dining, and recreational facilities reduces commute times for daily activities. The newer construction in San Marino means homes feature contemporary floor plans, updated electrical and plumbing systems, and modern energy efficiency standards.
The clubhouse serves as a gathering place for resident events and celebrations, while the community pool provides a focal point for summer activities and neighbor interactions.
What Makes it Special:
- Easy Highway 42 access for convenient commuting throughout the Triangle
- Community pool and clubhouse serving as neighborhood social hubs
- Sidewalks throughout promoting walkability and neighborhood connectivity
- New construction homes featuring modern designs and energy-efficient systems
- Well-maintained properties reflecting strong community pride
- Reasonable pricing making homeownership accessible to more buyers
Methodology
Factors such as homes for sale, local amenities, and community involvement were considered to determine the best neighborhoods in Clayton, NC. Data was sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau, PayScale, and the Town of Clayton.
FAQs
Is Clayton, NC a good place to live?
Clayton is a great place to live in North Carolina and is best known for its low crime rates, affordability, excellent schools, strategic location, and employment opportunities.
Is Clayton, NC expensive?
With a cost of living that is 6% lower than the national average, Clayton is a very affordable place to live just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina. Housing costs in particular are 25% lower in Clayton making it a great location for first-time homebuyers.
Is Clayton, NC up-and-coming?
Considered an up-and-coming area, Clayton is a thriving community that has grown in population size by 277% from 2000 to 2020. Clayton is expected to experience continued growth over the next few years and is predicted to double in size over the next 30 years.
Best Neighborhoods in Clayton, NC - Final Thoughts
Clayton's diverse neighborhoods offer options for every lifestyle and budget. With its strong schools, growing job market, and commitment to preserving its small-town character while embracing modern amenities, Clayton represents an excellent choice for your next home.
Clayton's location between Raleigh and the Research Triangle, make it one of North Carolina's most promising communities. Finding your dream home in Clayton is easy and convenient with the help of the experts at Raleigh Realty.
Contact us today to start your home search in Clayton. We are here to help and answer any questions about the home-buying process and life in Clayton.
