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$525,000
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14.27
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Lot 2 Fox Hill Farm, Hillsborough, NC 27278
MLS#: 10089173
Living in Hillsborough
Are you considering a move to Hillsborough, NC? Here are ten things to know about living in Hillsborough!
Nestled in Orange County, Hillsborough is a charming historic town that offers a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern conveniences. If you're considering a move to this picturesque North Carolina destination, this moving guide is for you.
Hillsborough is a beautiful place to live in North Carolina, best known for its location along the Eno River. Founded in 1754, the town boasts a rich historical background and was once the capital of North Carolina during the American Revolution.
A center of cultural and political advancement in the 18th and 19th centuries, Hillsborough is on the National Register of Historic Places, and many churches and buildings from this period are still standing.
Not only did Hillsborough play an essential part in the Civil War, but the town's visitors center was also the headquarters of General Joseph E. Johnston, who surrendered his Confederate army to General William T. Sherman at the end of the war.
Today, Hillsborough is a popular haven for artists and writers since it has a lively arts and entertainment district Downtown that acts as a fun center for residents and visitors alike.
Featuring many events and festivals throughout the year that aim to unite the community, the homes for sale in Hillsborough are beautiful, making it a sought-after destination for families. With fun things to do, delicious restaurants, outdoor recreation, parks, and plenty of job opportunities, it is no wonder that the population in Hillsborough grows annually.
With a median resident age of 43.6, Hillsborough is a nice place to live, with excellent amenities and friendly people. Surrounded by green forests, rivers, and lakes, many people are drawn to the area for its peaceful way of life and strong sense of community.
If you are considering moving to Hillsborough, North Carolina, you are certainly in the right place. It is located close to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, and Hillsborough is one of the best places to live in the state.
Here is what you need to know about life in Hillsborough, NC
1. Cost of Living
Hillsborough offers a relatively moderate cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas in North Carolina. The overall cost of living is slightly higher than the state's average, and property taxes are competitive, especially considering the quality of local services.
With a cost of living that is 4% higher than the national average, Hillsborough is an affordable option in North Carolina. Utilities and groceries are reasonably priced, healthcare costs are on par with state averages, and transportation costs are low.
The cost of living in Raleigh is slightly less than in Hillsborough, but the area still offers many affordable options for residents. If the cost of living is essential when considering a move, then Hillsborough is a great place to search for your dream home.
| Cost of Living Item | Average Price in Hillsborough, NC |
| Median Rent | $1,796/month |
| Energy Bill | $183.46/month |
| Phone Bill | $177.48/month |
| Loaf of Bread | $3.97 |
| Gallon of Milk | $4.68 |
| Doctor's Visit | $147.62 |
| Dentist Visit | $121.39 |
| Veterinary Visit | $68.01 |
2. Real Estate
The housing expenses in Hillsborough are 19% higher than the national average, but there are plenty of beautiful homes to choose from, no matter your budget. As of 2025, Hillsborough is a buyer's market due to a higher supply of homes than demand.
The median home price in Hillsborough is approximately $450,000 to $500,000. Average home sizes typically range from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet.
Diverse housing options range from historic downtown homes to modern suburban developments. Many properties feature large lots and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Hillsborough is home to many beautiful neighborhoods perfect for families and working professionals. The homes for sale in Hillsborough range from single-family homes to townhomes.
The Hillsborough neighborhoods are sought after because they offer a mixture of historic homes and contemporary constructions. They are also close to excellent schools and community spaces.
3. Prime Location
Found in Orange County, Hillsborough is a beautiful North Carolina town with a prime location. Centrally located in the state, Hillsborough offers fast and easy access to the Triangle area.
Hillsborough is considered a suburb of Durham, only 20 minutes from Downtown Durham, 20 minutes from Chapel Hill, and about an hour's drive from Raleigh, the capital city.
Interstate 85 runs through Hillsborough, and Interstate 40 is just outside town limits, making travel convenient. The Raleigh Durham International Airport is only a 30-minute drive away for those planning an out-of-state or international vacation.
4. Weather
Did you know many people move to Hillsborough and other parts of North Carolina for its weather? The area has a humid subtropical climate characterized by mild winters and warm, humid summers.
The town enjoys a relatively moderate climate that allows residents to experience all four seasons without extreme temperature variations. The temperature in Hillsborough typically ranges between 70 and 90 degrees in the summer and 35 and 55 degrees in the winter.
With an average of 46 inches of rainfall per year, more than the United States average of 30 inches, it is a good idea to have your rain jacket and umbrella handy. On the other hand, Hillsborough only receives an average of four inches of snowfall, which is way below the national average.
5. Education
As part of the Orange County School District, Hillsborough has many above-average schools. Serving more than 7,208 students and with a student ratio of 14 to one, education is taken seriously in Hillsborough.
There are 13 schools in Hillsborough, with 50% minority enrollment. The high school college readiness score is 38.5. Some of the best schools in Hillsborough include Central Elementary School, Hillsborough Elementary School, Orange Middle School, A. L. Stanback Middle School, Orange High School, and Cedar Ridge High School.
For those seeking higher education opportunities in Hillsborough, there are multiple options. Home to the Durham Tech Community College Orange County Campus, this is a great place to earn an associate's degree or a certificate. Duke University, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina Central University, and North Carolina State University are all within an hour's drive.
The future educational outlook in Hillsborough includes a continued focus on personalized learning, increasing STEM and technology integration, expanding global education perspectives, and enhanced career preparation programs.
6. Job Market
Hillsborough is an ideal place to live, with an expanding job market. Hillsborough benefits from its strategic location in the Research Triangle region between Durham, Chapel Hill, and Raleigh. This proximity provides unique economic advantages and diverse job opportunities for residents.
Here are some interesting employment statistics in Hillsborough:
- Unemployment Rate: Approximately 3.2-3.5%
- Median Household Income: $75,000 - $85,000
- Employment Growth Rate: 2-3% annually
- Workforce Participation Rate: Around 68-70%
With increased remote work options, proximity to major tech hubs, and increased coworking spaces, the job market in Hillsborough is strong but competitive and offers many opportunities for advancement.
Hillsborough will continue to grow in the technology and research sectors with an increased focus on sustainable industries. Offering strong economic resilience, young professionals love the city's continued investment in local infrastructure and expansion of remote work opportunities.
7. Family-Friendly Activities
Hillsborough is a family-friendly place to live, as seen through its many family-oriented activities. You will never run out of exciting new things to do, regardless of age, from festivals and annual events to historical museums and public libraries.
Check out these fun things to do in Hillsborough:
Hillsborough Hog Day BBQ Festival: Featuring the best-pulled pork and BBQ in North Carolina, this annual two-day festival is great for the whole family and includes live music, face painting, and bounce houses.
Orange County Main Public Library: Borrow books, e-books, DVDs, and more at this public library, with free public computer access and Wi-Fi.
Orange County Historical Museum: This free museum offers a chance to learn about the history of Orange County through gallery showcases and exhibits.
Maple View Farms Country Store and Creamery: Enjoy hand-dipped ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, and banana splits.
Orange County Sportsplex: Offering fitness classes, swimming, ice skating, camps, and physical therapy sessions.
8. Great Restaurants
There is always something delicious in Hillsborough, much like the restaurants in Raleigh. Home to many locally owned eateries and fine dining establishments, the food in Hillsborough will satisfy any appetite. While the area may be known for its southern cuisine, there are many globally inspired restaurants to try when in town and budget-friendly options.
Check out these local favorite restaurants in Hillsborough:
El Restaurante Ixtapa: This hidden gem in Hillsborough is a must-visit for Mexican cuisine. It is an excellent spot for lunch and dinner.
Hillsborough BBQ Company: Dine on fresh BBQ, delicious sides, and homemade desserts.
Panciuto: This popular Italian restaurant features an updated menu weekly and is a go-to for delicious food and drinks.
Antonia's Restaurant: Enjoy classic pasta dishes and Italian entrees in a great atmosphere with friendly staff.
9. Parks
Spending time outside and exploring the city's many parks and recreation facilities is one of the best ways to get to know Hillsborough. From walking trails to playgrounds, enjoying the great outdoors is a staple of living in Hillsborough.
Check out these local favorite parks in Hillsborough:
Gold Park: This quiet and relaxing park features a dog park, picnic tables, walking trails, and a playground.
River Park: Walk along the river and spend the day with the family.
Cates Creek Park: Picnic tables, a playground, and a small dog park are here.
Fairview Park: Spend the day at this clean, well-maintained park with a basketball court and ball fields.
Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area: With over 190 acres of land, this beautiful natural area is great for hiking and watching the sunset.
10. Crime and Safety in Hillsborough
Unlike Raleigh, which is a safe place to live, Hillsborough has a higher crime rate and is only 3% safer than other cities in the United States. People living in Hillsborough generally consider the southeast part of town the safest.
While there are undoubtedly safe neighborhoods in Hillsborough, it's always a good idea to pay attention to your surroundings and follow personal safety tips. For example, always lock your doors and walk in well-lit areas.
Here are your chances of becoming a victim of violent crime in Hillsborough, NC:
| In Hillsborough | In North Carolina |
| One in 336 | One in 256 |
Here are your chances of becoming a victim of property crime in Hillsborough, NC:
| In Hillsborough | In North Carolina |
| One in 21 | One in 48 |
*Data Sourced from NeighborhoodScout.
Most property crimes reported in Hillsborough are related to theft, while most violent crimes are robberies. Experiencing seasonal fluctuations in crime rates, occasional property crimes, petty theft in commercial areas, and minor vandalism are common.
The pros and cons of living in Hillsborough, NC
Pros:
- Exceptional public school system
- Strategic location in the Research Triangle region
- Safe neighborhoods
- Diverse job market
- Beautiful natural surroundings
- Rich cultural and historical attractions
- Affordable cost of living
- Reasonable housing prices
Cons:
- Slightly higher cost of living compared to some NC regions
- Potential need to commute
- Limited public transportation
- Rural limitations
- Limited local healthcare facilities
- Seasonal allergies
- Humid summers
Methodology
Factors such as the cost of living, housing affordability, crime rate, local amenities, things to do, job market, education, climate, and location were considered to determine the best things to know about living in Hillsborough, NC.
FAQs
Is Hillsborough, NC, a good place to live?
As one of the best places to live in North Carolina, Hillsborough is a great place to call home. It offers its residents a sparse suburban way of life.
Is Hillsborough, NC, growing?
Hillsborough is a growing city with a population of over 9,757. Over the years, it has welcomed many new residents and businesses, making it a vibrant place to call home in North Carolina.
Is Hillsborough, NC, rural?
Found in Orange County, Hillsborough is a rural community about 18 minutes from Durham. With beautiful real estate and family-friendly neighborhoods, it is no wonder that so many people want to live in Hillsborough.
Moving to Hillsborough, NC - Final Thoughts
Whether you are considering a move to Hillsborough for its centralized location in the state or for a new work opportunity, this city has plenty to offer its residents, from beautiful real estate to an affordable cost of living.
Hillsborough offers a unique living experience that combines historic charm, natural beauty, and modern conveniences. Whether you're a young professional, growing family, or retiree, this town provides something special for everyone.
Though Hillsborough may not be as talked about as moving to Raleigh and is often considered a rural area, it mainly comprises families with school-aged children, and most residents own their homes.
The schools are good, and the area has plenty of potential as it grows and expands. If you are moving to Hillsborough and are ready to start your home search, connect with the experts at Raleigh Realty. We are here to answer your questions. Please feel free to contact us today.
