7 Most Popular Home Styles in Raleigh, NC

Are you planning on moving to Raleigh, NC, and want to learn more about the most popular home styles? Look no further because we have created a list of the seven most popular home styles in Raleigh, NC. 

As you start searching for a home, it is vital to consider which home style fits your lifestyle and preferences best. Raleigh, NC, is full of a variety of beautiful home styles, from Georgian Colonial to Mid-Century Modern. 

Each home style is unique, and North Carolina is known for its mix of stunning mountains, breathtaking beaches, and adorable towns. No matter where you decide to plant roots, there will be a diverse mix of home styles available. 

The majority of North Carolina's residential home styles are influenced by European designs. These traditional homes have a deep history and are considered timeless. Although, there has been a rise of several other different home styles around the state. Raleigh is no different; as the capital of NC, it is filled with history, prime real estate, and friendly people. 

There are pros and cons in every place, but before moving to Raleigh, check out this list of the most popular home styles in Raleigh, NC, in no particular order. 

Keep reading to learn all about the seven most popular home styles in Raleigh, NC.

1. Colonial

Dating back to the early 18th century, the Colonial Revival style comes from the Federal and Georgian architecture of America's founding period. The symmetrical design features more classic details. 

This home style is usually square, with the highest point in the center of the home. The typical features include a gabled roof, wood/brick/modern vinyl siding, a four-square layout, a central fireplace, and hardwood floors. 

On the exterior, you'll notice the door is usually in the center, surrounded by multi-pane windows, furthering the symmetrical design. Once you walk in the front doors, you will notice the large central staircase with rooms on both sides. The interior features high ceilings and beautiful crown molding. 

It is easy to spot this home style from the symmetry and grand entrance. The entrance is usually surrounded by a porch supported by columns or pillars. The Colonial style has been reinvented over the years since its origination in the Colonial period in America. 

There are several different Colonial styles, including Early American Colonial, Georgian Colonial, French Colonial, Dutch Colonial, and Colonial Revival. You can't go wrong with this picturesque home style, which is one of the most popular in Raleigh and the rest of the country. 

The building costs are usually affordable, making it perfect for first-time homeowners or large families due to the multi-story design. 

2. Craftsman

The Craftsman home style emerged from the American Craftsman movement at the beginning of the 20th century. This home style commonly features a triangular roof, overhanging eaves with exposed beams, tapered columns, patterned window panes, and a covered porch.

Also known as the Arts and Crafts style homes, you can spot a Craftsman style home from its beautifully and naturally crafted look. The exterior usually features cedar shakes, stone, and shiplap siding. The natural look is used to emphasize harmony with the surrounding nature. This means if you value your home's curb appeal, this might be the perfect style for you. 

You'll find this home style in many neighborhoods and in the suburbs. One of the best parts of this home style is it allows you the opportunity to personalize your home however you want. The style boats have warm designs or luxurious amenities. 

There are four primary kinds of craftsman-style homes: Middsion, Four-square, and bungalow. Each is beautiful on its own but shares similar features like wide porches, wood pillars, and similar interiors. On the inside, you'll find a lot of dark brown wood trim, large windows, stone fireplaces, exposed ceiling beams, and neutral colors. 

3. Traditional

The Traditional style of home is usually found in new-construction homes. This style incorporates historic architectural styles from the 17th and 18th centuries. The style blends modern and classic elements with simple rooflines, symmetrical windows, and more. 

As the most popular house style in the United States, it is one of the most affordable. The exterior is primarily brick but can integrate stone or vinyl. You'll notice the simple overhanging eaves, porches, and varied roof lines. One of the best parts of a traditional home style is the freedom you have to build. They don't have to be a certain size or shape; they can be expansive or simple. It all depends on your preferences.  

The interior is usually practical, starting with a spacious foyer. This home design is perfect for families as there could be as many as four bedrooms. Typically, the living and dining rooms are spacious as well, and the bedrooms are located on the second floor. You'll also have the freedom to feature a garage attached or not. 

4. Ranch House

The Ranch house style is usually single-style houses with an open-concept layout and large patio. On the outside, you'll notice low-pitched rooflines and big windows along the front. 

Most people are drawn to the ranch house style of its open living space, perfect for families or entertainment purposes. This is also great for long-term practicality since they are usually single-story; you can stay here into retirement if seniors can no longer climb the stairs that most homes have. 

The only possible downside of this home style is the price, as the roof and foundation can require expensive features. It also requires a large lot of land as a single-story home. However, you will have a lot of room for personalization as the asymmetrical shapes allow you to design the exterior however you want.

These are also a favorite of first-time home buyers. Don't stress about the price; you'll find there is a large variety of ranch homes, both old and new. Meaning a large variety of prices. So, if you value space, then this home style might be perfect for you. 

5. Victorian

Victorian-style homes are one of the most recognizable and are found all around the Raleigh area. Victorian-style homes are usually two or three stories tall with gabled roofs and round towers. The exterior features beautiful architecture with complex roof lines, towers, turrets, and stunning designs all around. 

This home style is considered one of the more luxurious, which means it can be a bit more expensive than other home styles. These homes are heavily influenced by Gothic styles and intricately designed woodwork. You'll notice the stunning wraparound front porches, perfect for a space to relax or entertain. 

 The interior design is just as detailed as the exterior. Originating from the Victorian era, these types of homes usually have an abundance of patterns, tall ceilings and windows, tiled floors, florals, large fireplaces, carpets, rugs, and heavy curtains. Here is where you can add your own personal touch, with as much detail as you desire. 

The sheer amount of design and detail is what sets this home style apart from the rest. You'll find this design in many of the historical sites across Raleigh. Not only are these homes beautiful, but they are perfect for a family looking for a home for the rest of their lives, and there is no better place to live than Raleigh. 

6. Tudor-Style

The Tudor-style home will stand out from the rest. With their pitched gable roofs, elegant masonry and stonework, and wooden beams. Mainly inspired by a mix of early and medieval English buildings, the style has changed over the years to encompass a more transitional appearance. 

One of the most obvious features of this style is the oak timbers, often colored black or white. One of the drawbacks of this design is the price, as it can be expensive to build and maintain. If you are thinking about buying a Tudor-style home, they are typically historic homes that can require a lot of effort to update. 

Many compare the Tudor style to Victorian homes, although they do have some distinctive differences. Mainly, the detailed designs are found in Victorian homes, whereas Tudor home styles are traditionally more simple and elegant. Although, both are excellent choices if you are interested in a luxury home. 

As you step through the doors of a Tudor-style home, you'll be welcomed with dark woods, warm colors, and extravagant details. The main features are the wooden beams across the interior, giving it a cozy vibe. However, if you want a more spacious and bright interior, you have the freedom to pick light wooded beams and traditional details. 

This home style is perfect if you want an aesthetically pleasing home, and there are many tips for interior design to help you create the perfect home. 

7. Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern home styles are becoming one of the most popular home designs. These homes are extremely simple, with little decoration, and usually have stucco. The contemporary designs include floor-to-ceiling windows, wood, stone, and brick materials. 

There is an emphasis on space, as open floor plans are extremely relevant in this home style. In addition to the large windows, many of these homes feature large glass doors to really bring the outdoors into the home. 

Stemming from the mid-1900s, this design is categorized as a minimalistic and clean design. This is perfect as minimalistic design trends are becoming more popular in today's society. You'll see this design in newer areas, especially around Raleigh, as the city has grown tremendously in recent years. 

This home style is becoming very prominent as Millenials start buying homes, and you can see it in several celebrities' homes. 

The minimalist design will continue on the interior, where you will find clean lines, functional furniture, and organic shapes. The fun part of this home style is you can add your personal touch with unique furniture pieces or abstract colors. This clean look is extremely popular right now. 

FAQ: Home Styles in Raleigh

Here are some commonly asked questions about the most popular home styles in Raleigh, NC.

What style of house sells the most?

The Ranch-style house is the most popular style in many states. This classic build offers plenty of space and is usually one story. Its popularity grew in the mid-twentieth century and has remained one of the most popular since. 

What house styles are popular right now?

A couple of the most popular home styles include Craftsman, Cape Cod, ranch, colonial, contemporary, and Victorian. 

What kind of houses are in North Carolina?

North Carolina homes are mostly colonial, federal, and Georgian styles, although farmhouse, bungalow, modern, and contemporary styles are starting to become more popular around the state. 

Are home prices dropping in Raleigh?

Overall, the median home price has declined since 2022, but the average home price is still a bit higher than the national average. 

How do I choose the style of my house?

There are many ways to choose the style of your house; you could look at home design inspiration, draw inspiration from your current home, or even hire a custom home designer. 

Home Styles in Raleigh - The Bottom Line

As you search for your new home, one of the first things you should do is consider the home style. This will most likely be your home for a long time, and you'll want to love everything about it, starting with the style. 

Not only is the home style important for you, but it will have a large impact on your home's value. Once you decide on the ideal home style, you can start looking at specific areas or neighborhoods. 

If you're considering buying your first home, there are many things to consider, from the location to the home style. Raleigh, NC, is one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, and there are many different home styles to pick from. However, you'll have to act fast if you want to buy your dream home in one of Raleigh's best neighborhoods. 

As you search for your next home in the Triangle, don't hesitate to contact one of our helpful Real Estate Specialists, as they are eager to help you find the perfect home. We know that buying a new home can be stressful and overwhelming, so make sure you are well-prepared beforehand.