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Where to Live in Raleigh as a Family
Do you want to learn about the best neighborhoods for families in Raleigh, NC? Here are the top seven communities in Raleigh where you can raise a family.
Raleigh has earned its reputation as one of America's best cities for families, and it's easy to see why. As the capital of North Carolina and anchor of the Research Triangle, Raleigh combines Southern charm with big-city opportunities, creating an environment where families truly thrive.
The city boasts a high quality of life, a robust job market driven by tech and healthcare sectors, and a cost of living that remains reasonable compared to other major metros.
With over 180 parks, mild four-season weather, and a thriving cultural scene that includes world-class museums and performing arts, Raleigh offers the perfect balance of urban amenities and family-friendly living.
Raleigh is part of the Wake County Public School System, the largest public school system in the state. Its schools are excellent, and students have high test scores and graduation rates. There are also several private schools and higher education opportunities available.
While the outer part of the city is rapidly growing and the suburbs are becoming more popular, Raleigh has many family-friendly neighborhoods and communities that provide plenty of outdoor recreation, affordable housing, and amenities that kids of all ages will love.
Whether you're relocating for a job at one of the area's major employers or simply seeking a better quality of life, choosing the right neighborhood is crucial.
Each of Raleigh's communities has its own distinct personality, architectural character, and amenities. Here are seven of the best neighborhoods that consistently rank highly among families calling Raleigh home.
Check out these Raleigh neighborhoods that are perfect for families
1. Historic Oakwood
Step back in time in Historic Oakwood, one of Raleigh's most picturesque neighborhoods. Located just east of downtown, this Victorian-era gem features stunning 19th-century homes with wraparound porches, intricate gingerbread trim, and tree-lined streets that feel like a living history book.
Historic Oakwood is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Raleigh for families. This affluent and historic residential neighborhood is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Most homes in Historic Oakwood come in various styles and sizes and feature beautiful gardens. Expect to find Victorian, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival homes, many meticulously restored.
Properties typically range from 2,000 to 4,000 square feet, with prices generally between $500,000 and $1.2 million. Many homes feature original hardwood floors, high ceilings, and modern updates that preserve historic character.
A great place to live for families and young professionals, Historic Oakwood is a safe neighborhood with quiet, tree-lined streets. Found in a prime location in Raleigh, this neighborhood has a tight-knit community feel and friendly neighbors.
Prized for its walkability, Historic Oakwood feels like a small town instead of a busy community in Raleigh's heart. With low crime rates, several parks perfect for families, and top-rated schools nearby, there are many reasons why families want to call Historic Oakwood home.
Historic Oakwood has an active homeowners' association that organizes events throughout the year, fostering tight-knit community bonds. If you have a fear of buying in a bad neighborhood, Historic Oakwood is a great one to consider.
Local Favorites:
North Carolina Museum of History: This Smithsonian affiliate offers unique exhibits and exciting events that explore the state's history.
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Considered the oldest museum in the state and the largest natural history museum in the southeastern United States.
Krispy Kreme: This long-time donut chain is kid-friendly and has served the community since 1970.
Oakwood Commons Park: This beautiful neighborhood park is excellent for walking and bringing your dog.
2. Five Points
The Five Points neighborhood is a very family-friendly place to live close to Downtown Raleigh that is named for its five-way intersection. With a mixture of older homes and new construction, Five Points is an up-and-coming place to live in Raleigh, with many laid-back restaurants and dog-friendly amenities.
Homes typically range from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, with prices from $450,000 to $850,000. Many properties feature sizeable yards and front porches that encourage neighbor interaction.
As part of the Wake County Public School System, Joyner Elementary School, Oberlin Middle School, and Raleigh Charter High School are some of the best schools in the area for families with school-aged children.
Five Points is all about lifestyle. Families can walk to the neighborhood's commercial district filled with locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops. The community hosts regular events like Fall For Five Points in autumn and holiday celebrations.
Local Favorites:
Bloomsbury Bistro: This high-end restaurant offers a French-influenced menu that changes based on the availability of fresh local ingredients.
Fred Fletcher Park: Bring the whole family to this local community park with a playground, walking trails, a water garden, green spaces, and sports fields.
The Third Place Coffee Shop: Open since 1994, this Raleigh coffee shop is the perfect place to enjoy coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. Local art is displayed on the walls.
Pullen Park: Recognized as the first public park in North Carolina, this 66.4-acre park is one of the best in Raleigh for its playground, clean facilities, community center, amusement rides, and paddle boats.
3. North Hills
North Hills represents modern Raleigh at its finest. This master-planned community in midtown Raleigh has transformed into one of the area's most desirable neighborhoods, centered around the expansive North Hills shopping and dining district.
North of the Five Points and Mordecai neighborhoods, North Hills is an affluent community offering residents a luxurious lifestyle. With a lively urban environment, North Hills has made a name for itself as a major retail destination and popular living place, with top-rated schools and abundant job opportunities.
North Hills offers an incredible variety, from luxury high-rise condos to single-family homes and townhomes. Single-family homes in North Hills typically range from 2,500 to 5,000 square feet, with prices from $600,000 to over $2 million.
Most homes in North Hills feature tree-lined streets and nice-sized yards. Prized for its convenient and trendy location, North Hills residents are families and business professionals. They have easy access to the Raleigh-Durham International Airport and major interstate highways.
Local Favorites:
Quail Ridge Bookstore: This indie bookstore has been open since 1984 and features many books, magazines, stationery, and gifts.
Midtown Park: Located between luxury apartments and popular retailers, this is a fantastic gathering place for families and friends. Many events are hosted here yearly, including farmers' markets and the Midtown Beach Music Series.
Jubala Coffee: Check out this cozy coffee shop for good espresso drinks and tasty food.
North Hills Park: This public recreational park is great for families due to its green spaces, playground, picnic shelters, tennis courts, and baseball fields.
4. Boylan Heights
Boylan Heights is Raleigh's original streetcar suburb, and its early 1900s character remains beautifully intact. Located just southwest of downtown, this neighborhood feels like a small town within the city, with one of the strongest community identities in Raleigh.
Prized for its distinctive character and charm, architectural styles in this neighborhood range from Queen Anne to Colonial Revival. Providing rich history and a strong sense of community, Boylan Heights features affordable housing, kid-friendly parks, proximity to Downtown, and a laid-back way of life.
The neighborhood benefits from access to several strong elementary options and feeds into middle and high schools with solid academic reputations. Many families also appreciate the short drive to downtown's magnet school options.
Local Favorites:
Dorothea Dix Park: This 308-acre city park features vast open spaces for walking, running, picnicking, and hanging out. It also has a spacious dog park.
Videri Chocolate Factory: Learn how chocolate is made at this local artisan factory that offers self-guided tours, chocolate tastings, and a cafe.
Boulted Bread: Purchase organic and locally made artisan breads and pastries at this chic bakery.
John Chavis Memorial Park: This 28-acre park is excellent for families to spend time together. It features playgrounds, a splash pad, and a historic carousel.
5. Mordecai
Mordecai is one of Raleigh's oldest neighborhoods, home to the historic Mordecai House (birthplace of President Andrew Johnson) and filled with century-old oak trees that create a peaceful, established atmosphere. Located northeast of downtown, it offers historic charm with easy city access.
Homes typically range from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, with prices from $400,000 to $750,000. The variety means families can find everything from starter homes to spacious family properties.
The proximity to downtown means easy access to museums, entertainment, and dining, while the neighborhood itself maintains a quiet, residential character.
The Mordecai community offers residents a peaceful and laid-back way of life. Many houses feature front porches that inspire long conversations and gatherings of friends. It also features many family-friendly activities and is close to several local colleges, including William Peace University and Saint Augustine's University.
Local Favorites:
Marbles Kids Museum: This non-profit children's museum offers fun and innovative hands-on exhibits for children ages ten and under.
Mordecai Historic Park: Considered the oldest house in Raleigh, this is the birthplace of President Andrew Johnson. This three-acre park offers tours of the Mordecai house and outbuildings.
Raleigh City Farm: Visit this non-profit urban farm and learn about sustainable agriculture and farming practices.
Logan's Garden Shop: This locally owned and operated garden shop sells houseplants, trees, shrubs, and seasonal decorations.
6. Forest Park
Tucked in north-central Raleigh, Forest Park is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful, suburban feel while remaining close to everything. This historic neighborhood is perfect for families and young professionals.
The homes in Forest Park range from 1,500 to 2,800 square feet and offer excellent value for families. Large lots are common, providing ample yard space for play.
Recognized as an upscale and vibrant neighborhood, Forest Park is a lovely area with trendy restaurants, well-maintained parks and green spaces, and high-end shopping.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this prestigious Raleigh neighborhood is also home to The Village District, formerly Cameron Village. With over 90 local shops and eating establishments, it is a great place to bring the whole family together.
Forest Park is served by highly-rated Wake County schools, including Reedy Creek Elementary and Martin Magnet Middle School, both known for strong academics and engaged parent communities. The neighborhood feeds into Broughton High School.
Located close to North Carolina State University, one of the best colleges in Raleigh, and near public transportation, this safe neighborhood is easy to get around. It is surrounded by many things to do and family-friendly activities.
Local Favorites:
The Flying Biscuit Cafe: This southern food chain is a great place to visit for breakfast and brunch. Enjoy generous portions and quality food and drinks.
Oberlin Regional Library: Check out a book at this Wake County Public Library that features a large selection of fiction and nonfiction for adults and children.
North Carolina State University: Founded in 1887, this leading public research university is the largest in the Carolinas.
Goodberry's Frozen Custard: Bring the family to enjoy all-natural frozen custard with a rotating flavor of the day.
7. Hayes Barton
Hayes Barton is one of Raleigh's most prestigious neighborhoods, and for good reason. Developed in the 1920s and 1930s, this neighborhood features stately homes, tree-lined streets, and a level of architectural consistency that creates a cohesive, beautiful environment just minutes from downtown.
Best known for its beautiful homes and range of architecture, including Colonial estates, Bungalows, and Tudor-style single-family homes, Hayes Barton is charming and features many upscale amenities.
Providing access to nearby playgrounds, daycare centers, top-rated schools, community centers, and places of worship, Hayes Barton is the type of neighborhood that families love.
The neighborhood's central location means a 10-minute drive to downtown and easy access to major employers throughout Raleigh. Kids grow up riding bikes on quiet streets beneath massive oak trees, creating childhood memories.
Local Favorites:
The Rialto: This neighborhood theater features movies, concerts, live music, arthouse films, and comedy shows.
Tic Toc Escapes: Considering a unique team-building experience, this escape room is fun for all ages.
Hayes Barton Cafe and Dessertery: This cafe and popular bakery is beloved for its old-fashioned vibe. Make reservations for lunch, dinner, or dessert.
NOFO @ The Pig Cafe: Dine at this southern cafe in a former Piggly Wiggly supermarket with a gourmet market.
FAQs
Is Raleigh, NC, a good place to live for families?
Raleigh and the surrounding Triangle area are considered great places to live for families in North Carolina due to their consistently low crime rates, an abundance of family-friendly amenities and recreational activities, an excellent school system, and beautiful, large homes.
Where do millennials live in Raleigh?
Millennials and young professionals love living in Raleigh due to its many job opportunities, amenities, and affordable housing. They live in various neighborhoods and suburbs, including North Hills, Five Points, Brier Creek, The Village District, and Downtown Raleigh.
What is the safest part of Raleigh?
Raleigh has a low crime rate and is generally considered a safe place to live. Since crime rates can depend on the neighborhood, some of Raleigh's safest places to live include Historic Oakwood, The Village District, Five Points, Mordecai, and North Hills.
Methodology
Data was sourced from the Raleigh Historic Development Commission, the Raleigh News and Observer, and many local Raleigh businesses to determine the best Raleigh neighborhoods for families.
Best Raleigh Neighborhoods for Families - Final Thoughts
Each of these seven neighborhoods offers something special for families moving to Raleigh. When choosing your Raleigh neighborhood, consider what matters most to your family: proximity to work, school priorities, architectural preferences, walkability, yard space, or budget.
If you are moving to Raleigh and are ready to explore these neighborhoods in person, contact Raleigh Realty today to find your perfect home in a family-friendly neighborhood.
