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Best Suburbs of Raleigh
What is the best suburb to live in Raleigh, NC? Let's dive into our top ten suburbs of Raleigh with local information on each suburb!
Raleigh, North Carolina, is often named one of the best places to live in the southeast United States due to its affordable cost of living, access to top universities, an exciting culinary scene, and charming neighborhoods.
The Raleigh metropolitan area continues to attract newcomers from across the country, drawn by the region's strong job market, excellent educational opportunities, and high quality of life.
While downtown Raleigh offers vibrant urban living, many families and professionals prefer the surrounding suburbs for their space, amenities, and community feel.
So, if you are moving to Raleigh and are interested in buying a home, this guide to the best Raleigh suburbs is an excellent place to start.
Check out these ten best Raleigh suburbs
1. Cary
Population: 180,010
Average Commute Time: 20 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $129,399
Median Sale Price: $768,826
Often topping "best places to live" lists nationwide, Cary is just 15 minutes west of Raleigh and offers exceptional schools, pristine parks, and a strong sense of community.
Cary is the second-largest municipality in Wake County and the seventh-largest in North Carolina. Cary is an excellent place to live and is considered one of the most desirable communities in the Triangle area.
Cary is divided into West Cary and East Cary, which have distinctly different vibes. East Cary (closer to Raleigh) features more established neighborhoods with mature trees and traditional homes, while West Cary showcases newer master-planned communities with resort-style amenities.
Famous for its world-class shopping, award-winning restaurants, lively entertainment, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Cary is an excellent place for families to live.
Residents who move to Cary earn the third-highest incomes in North Carolina. The cost of living in Cary is 8% higher than the national average, and while it is one of the fastest-growing Raleigh suburbs, it is also one of the most costly.
Local Favorites:
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve: Featuring three miles of mulched nature trails, scenic overlooks, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Koka Booth Amphitheatre: In Regency Park, this performing arts amphitheater hosts yearly musical performances and movie screenings.
Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen: Dine on farm-to-table southern cuisine made with local ingredients and a menu that rotates with the season. Enjoy an extensive wine and craft beer list in an upscale environment.
2. Apex
Population: 72,225
Average Commute Time: 29 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $138,442
Median Sale Price: $739,879
Apex is a smaller Raleigh suburb sought after for its southern charm and beautiful historic district. This charming suburb combines historic small-town character with modern amenities, earning its "Peak of Good Living" motto.
Experiencing significant growth, Apex has some of the newest homes for sale in the nation, attracting an influx of affluent people. Many families relocate to the area for its high safety rating and family-friendly activities.
Downtown Apex represents one of the region's best-preserved historic districts, with buildings dating to the early 1900s now housing local boutiques and restaurants.
While the town has experienced explosive growth, community events like the annual PeakFest and weekly farmers markets maintain its small-town feel.
Local Favorites:
Apex Community Park: This 160-acre public park features a 50-acre lake with walking trails, athletic fields, tennis courts, volleyball courts, basketball courts, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Knights Play Golf Center: Play golf with friends at this 27-hole course and fully illuminated 60-station driving range.
Scratch Kitchen and Taproom: Dine on housemade southern dishes and weekend brunch made from scratch in downtown Apex.
3. Holly Springs
Population: 46,271
Average Commute Time: 30 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $132,435
Median Sale Price: $702,276
Holly Springs is a beautiful town located just outside Raleigh and is notoriously known for its low crime rate. Recognized as a historic landmark, Holly Springs is best known for its historical significance, recreational amenities, and fantastic family-friendly community.
With its vibrant downtown village district in the heart of town, many people are moving to Holly Springs since it is a growing area with many new restaurants and retail shops.
Offering a mix of new residential developments and mature neighborhoods, Holly Springs's homes for sale are highly sought after.
While slightly farther from Raleigh than some suburbs, the direct route along NC-55 makes for a relatively straightforward commute. The planned extension of NC-540 will soon improve access to RTP and northern destinations.
Local Favorites:
Bass Lake Park: Open from 8 AM to sunset year-round, this recreational area features walking trails, a nature center, and picnic pavilions. Boats and canoes are available for rental.
Pimiento Tea Room: Order from a rotating lunch and dinner menu featuring craft beverages and teas at this southern-inspired eatery and bar.
Vieni Ristobar: Enjoy homestyle Italian favorites, including pizza and pasta, in a kid-friendly and informal atmosphere.
4. Morrisville
Population: 48,674
Average Commute Time: 28 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $132,435
Median Sale Price: $597,749
Strategically positioned between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, Morrisville provides unmatched access to the entire Triangle region. Morrisville is primarily in Wake County, with a small portion extending into Durham County.
Found just west of the Raleigh-Durham International Airport and south of Research Triangle Park, Morrisville is a small yet growing community that is one of the best places to live in North Carolina.
Morrisville boasts one of the most diverse populations in North Carolina, best known for its affordable real estate, low crime, excellent schools, plenty of job opportunities, and top-rated amenities.
Living in Morrisville means quick access to I-40, I-540, NC-54, and Airport Boulevard, making it ideal for households with members working in different Triangle cities or frequent travelers.
Local Favorites:
Park West Village: This 100-acre mixed-use development and shopping center features a movie theater, retail stores, and popular restaurants.
Lake Crabtree County Park: Located between Cary, Morrisville, and the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, this 520-acre park features hiking trails, boat rentals, picnic facilities, playgrounds, athletic fields, and a fishing pier.
Triangle Rock Club: Day passes and memberships are available at this rock climbing center, which offers bouldering, rope climbing, a fitness area, and yoga classes.
5. Fuquay-Varina
Population: 43,817
Average Commute Time: 34 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $111,447
Median Sale Price: $523,894
Fuquay-Varina is located in southern Wake County and is regarded as a great place to live in North Carolina due to its low crime rate and proximity to Research Triangle Park and Downtown Raleigh.
This dual-town community south of Raleigh maintains distinct neighborhoods with unique character while sharing excellent amenities.
Fuquay-Varina has recently experienced population growth and new real estate development, which is attracting many families. With many housing options available, Fuquay-Varina is a perfect place to buy.
The completion of I-540 has significantly improved northern access, though many residents commute via US-401 or NC-55. Significantly lower housing costs in Fuquay-Varina offset the longer distance from Raleigh.
Local Favorites:
Vicious Fishes Taproom and Kitchen: Visit this gastropub and brewery, which serves craft beer, cocktails, and fresh bar food.
Aviator Brewing Company: A local craft brewery with a taphouse, smokehouse, pizzeria, and beer shop.
Fainting Goat Brewing Company: This small veteran and woman-owned craft brewery sell beer that is made in-house.
6. Wake Forest
Population: 54,337
Average Commute Time: 35 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $120,777
Median Sale Price: $698,501
Wake Forest is a beautiful town in Wake, Franklin, and Granville Counties that is best known for its high-end dining options, thriving art scene, and plenty of green space.
Located northeast of Raleigh, Wake Forest is a historic town that balances small-town charm with upscale amenities and recreational opportunities. Often referred to as a "nature lover's paradise," it offers hiking, boating, camping, biking, and fishing opportunities.
Considered one of Raleigh's best suburbs, many families are moving to Wake Forest because of its beautiful small town full of history, culture, safety, and activities.
The town maintains a strong community identity, with well-attended festivals and events. Many families and young professionals moving to the area choose to purchase real estate in Wake Forest.
Local Favorites:
Falls Lake State Recreation Area: Located 15 miles east of downtown Durham, this 5,035-acre recreation area is along the shores of Falls Lake. It is an excellent place for hiking, biking, swimming, and boating.
The Factory: Made up of over 187,000 square feet of restaurants, retail space, and family-friendly facilities that everyone can enjoy in a safe location.
E. Carroll Joyner Park: This 117-acre park, recognized as one of the largest in Wake County, offers paved walking trails, an amphitheater, a pecan grove, a playground, and open green spaces.
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7. Garner
Population: 35,265
Average Commute Time: 13 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $77,496
Median Sale Price: $471,687
Garner is a small town in Wake County with a dense suburban feel. Most residents own their homes, and the town is recognized as a fast-growing community.
Just minutes from downtown Raleigh, Garner offers affordability without sacrificing convenience or community amenities. Garner is famous for its hometown charm and atmosphere.
Located near Research Triangle Park, Garner is constantly growing, offering an excellent place for relocating and expanding businesses. Famous for its laid-back atmosphere and genuine neighbors, moving to Garner is fantastic for individuals searching for a job or affordable home.
Garner provides some of the most attractive housing values in the immediate Raleigh area, particularly for first-time homebuyers. Garner's location south of Raleigh means residents enjoy quick access to downtown and the rapidly developing areas around NC State's Centennial Campus.
Local Favorites:
Garner Recreational Park: Located in downtown Garner, this 20-acre park features a playground, picnic shelters, walking trails, mountain biking trails, and a dog park.
Rush Hour Karting: Ride up to 40 mph at North Carolina's fastest indoor go-karting facility. This is an excellent place for the whole family, a team, or a group of friends.
Lake Benson Park: This 64-acre park features walking trails, picnic facilities, and a lake for fishing and boating.
8. Clayton
Population: 30,216
Average Commute Time: 25 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $73,348
Median Sale Price: $424,092
Technically, in Johnston County, Clayton has become popular for Triangle workers seeking more space and value.
Clayton offers significantly more house for the money compared to other Wake County suburbs, with larger lots and newer construction options.
The revitalized downtown area hosts regular events like the Clayton Harvest Festival and Mondo Roots Cultural Arts Festival. Clayton's school performance has improved dramatically in recent years, addressing what was previously a concern for some families considering the area.
US-70 and I-40 provide direct routes to Raleigh, with typical commute times of 25-35 minutes to downtown. Many residents report that the drive is worth the trade-off in housing value.
Local Favorites:
Clayton River Walk on the Neuse Greenway: This four-mile paved trail is perfect for walking, biking, and running.
Clayton Community Park: A popular gathering spot for families with walking paths, sports fields, a pond, and a community center.
Mannings Restaurant: Offering a variety of Southern comfort dishes and craft cocktails.
9. Rolesville
Population: 11,297
Average Commute Time: 33 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $148,250
Median Sale Price: $507,809
Rolesville has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, transforming from a small rural community to one of Wake County's fastest-growing suburbs.
Despite rapid growth, Rolesville maintains a tight-knit community feel with numerous events centered around Main Street. The homes for sale in Rolesville are known for their affordability, making this suburb an attractive option to buyers seeking value within the Wake County School District.
The town proactively established an extensive greenway system that connects neighborhoods to schools and parks. Being slightly removed from significant commercial development has preserved a quieter atmosphere than other suburbs.
Local Favorites:
Main Street Park: This popular Rolesville park is known for its two playgrounds, picnic shelters, open fields, and walking trails.
Granchio Seafood and Pasta Restaurant: Enjoy seafood and pasta at this popular Rolesville restaurant.
Mill Bridge Nature Park: Featuring a paved trail, amphitheater, boardwalks, and a connection to the Wake Forest greenway system.
10. Knightdale
Population: 20,275
Average Commute Time: 21 minutes to Raleigh
Median Household Income: $91,638
Median Sale Price: $465,146
Knightdale is located east of Raleigh and is a famous town in Wake County that is best known for its many parks, outdoor recreation activities, and small craft breweries.
Offering its residents a dense suburban feel and a low crime rate, young professionals and families moving to Knightdale will love its quiet and relaxing way of life.
Transforming from a small farming community to one of the fastest-growing suburbs in the region, many people love Knightdale's housing options and welcoming neighborhoods.
Local Favorites:
Knightdale Station Park: This fun community park has over two miles of walking trails, a rail-themed playground, sports fields, and a picnic shelter.
Oak City Brewing Company: Located in historic downtown Knightdale, this relaxed taproom features a dog-friendly beer garden, up to 20 rotating taps, and tons of outdoor space.
Prime Barbecue: Enjoy smoked meats and sandwiches, homemade southern sides, and tasty desserts.
Methodology
To determine the ten top suburbs near Raleigh, NC, data was sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau about population size and median household income.
FAQs
What is the safest suburb in Raleigh?
There are many safe Raleigh suburbs, but Cary is known for its particularly low crime rates and is frequently listed as one of the safest places to live in the country.
What is the richest area in Raleigh, NC?
Raleigh is home to various expensive neighborhoods inlcuding Oakwood, Five Points, and Boylan Heights which have higher home prices.
Best Raleigh Suburbs - Final Thoughts
Each of these suburbs offers distinct advantages depending on your priorities, whether you value shorter commutes, larger properties, specific school assignments, or community amenities. At Raleigh Realty, we specialize in helping newcomers find their ideal neighborhood based on their unique needs and preferences.
The Triangle's continued growth means these communities are constantly evolving, with new developments, amenities, and transportation improvements regularly enhancing livability. Our team stays current on these changes to provide our clients with the most accurate and helpful information.
Contact Raleigh Realty today to begin your journey to finding the perfect Raleigh suburb to call home.
