2023 Best Places to Live in the Raleigh Area

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.2 out of 5  510 reviews

Current Resident: Cary is a very nice area to live. There are many great schools around for children. There are also numerous unique community programs for children, adults, and seniors. Cary has a great variety of restaurants in addition to the shopping opportunities. The American Tobacco Trail and greenways throughout the town provide a great way to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. There are also several outdoor events throughout the year that are great for the whole family including food truck rodeos, music concerts, and festivals. Overall, Cary is a great place for individuals, couples, families, and even pets as it provides exceptional opportunities and a welcoming community feel!... Read 510 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Population 171,603

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.33 out of 5  78 reviews

Niche User: Morrisville is one of my favorite cities in the Triangle Area of North Carolina. You're 20 minutes away from Raleigh, 20 minutes away from Durham, and 10 minutes away from Cary. As well as being a couple minutes away from a bunch of other smaller cities nearby. There's a lot of lovely and delicious restaurants to choose from in Morrisville, so I would like to name just a few. 1. Blaze Pizza. Location: 1024 Market Center Drive. 2. Firebirds Wood Fired Grill. Location: 3200 Village Market Place. 3. Carmen's Cuban Cafe & Lounge. Location: 108 Factory Shops Road. 4. C&T Wok. Location: 130 Morrisville Square Way. 5. G.58 Cuisine. Location: 10958 Chapel Hill Road. 6. Another Broken Egg Cafe. Location: 1121 Market Center Drive. 7. Full Moon Oyster Bar. Location: 1600 Village Market Place. 8. Babymoon Cafe. Location: 100 Jerusalem Drive #106. 9. Two Guys Grill Inc. Location: 4149 Davis Drive. 10. Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken. Location: 9575 Chapel Hill Road.... Read 78 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Population 28,824

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.25 out of 5  233 reviews

Current Resident: Apex is an amazing community to be a part of! I have lived here for almost 30 years and have watched this town grow from a tiny town with one grocery store, to a thriving and bustling community. Apex is known as the "Peak of Good Living" and it fully lives up to that name. We have the amenities of a city, while still retaining our small town feel. There are no strangers in Apex. Everyone helps everyone, no questions asked.... Read 233 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Population 58,066

• Suburb of Durham, NC

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  Rating 4.22 out of 5  46 reviews

Current Resident: It's a cool, graduate student and young family-friendly little town. You can find great restaurants and great community programs. It's a small town but there are different people from different many countries with complete different backgrounds and that's what I like about Carrboro, diversity! Also, they have a really good school system especially for ESL and EL(English learner students like myself).... Read 46 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Population 21,237

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 4.17 out of 5  224 reviews

Current Resident: I’ve lived in Chapel Hill for my entire adult life. I moved here from upstate NY in 2001 for undergrad at UNC and found this town so charming I just never left! It’s a small-ish college town with a diverse and progressive population. Great variety of local restaurants & bars, a pretty rocking live music scene. The entire town also seems geared towards healthy lifestyles; there are multiple greenways, ample bike lanes, and a variety of co-ops/organic foods/health food markets. Also, at any hour of the day even on the hottest day of the year, if you drive through campus, you are guaranteed to see at least a handful of very fit people jogging effortlessly. This was all a bit of a culture shock to me initially, but ut inspired my own weight loss journey and dedication to health and fitness.... Read 224 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Population 60,920

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.14 out of 5  21 reviews

Current Resident: Rolesville has provided me great opportunity in interacting with Town Government and my peers. The Rolesville Chamber of Commerce offered a Youth Leadership program in which I worked with students at local high schools in and around Rolesville. Here I got to meet with town government, engage in town history, and interact with local business owners. Additionally, it hosts many community events whether it be at town hall, or the local baseball fields. It is an engaging community that is continuing to grow. The main thing I want to see more of if high school/young adult activities and more publicity for the ones that do happen.... Read 21 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Population 8,995

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.16 out of 5  141 reviews

Current Resident: For the first nine years of my life, I lived in Chicago. When I first moved to North Carolina, it was a very intense culture shock. I always thought it was funny when strangers would randomly smile and wave at me rather than look away. As the years passed and I adapted to my new home, I started to adore everything about it. I loved how our small downtown was vibrant and filled with restaurants and small businesses. I started to wake up every Saturday morning to volunteer and shop at the local farmer's market. Sometimes after work, I would walk to the library and read outside by the nature trail. I love how close-knitted our community was. I feel like a lot of change is happening right now at Holly Springs like construction, new roads, and housing. Although this new development is exciting, it's pushing lots of original residents outside the area due to financial instability. I wish we could slow down on the construction a bit, and raise more community involvement in these decisions.... Read 141 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Population 40,198

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.23 out of 5  194 reviews

Niche User: I've enjoyed living here in Wake Forest for 2 years now. It's one of my favorite suburbs in the Triangle Area. We have wonderful parks and greenway's to enjoy the beautiful weather, walking paths and a darling Historic Downtown area that begs you to cater at one of its lovely restaurants. There are plenty of waterways to enjoy Kayaking, Canoeing or fishing in Wake Forest. There is lots of culture as well here. Over here you are just a short drive to downtown Raleigh or Durham, meaning you are 20 minutes from either city which is perfect. Wake Forest also includes museums, world renowned performing arts centers, and wonderful gardens! I give shopping in this city an A+ as well. I would highly recommend Wake Forest for anyone wanting to call this place their home.... Read 194 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Population 46,387

• City in North Carolina

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  Rating 4.06 out of 5  1,337 reviews

Current Resident: I love the diversity you see in Raleigh! There's so many amazing restaurants and shopping areas that offer me so many fun experiences. I can always find something to do in Raleigh, which I appreciate on the weekends, and I think it's extremely accessible for people of all ages. I feel safe and comfortable in Raleigh as a gay woman too. The one thing that I would love changed is that cost of living is getting extremely expensive. Apartments are going up in their cost and it's becoming a little less accessible for people of certain income lives. As a student, I do worry about my longevity in my home. I know that there are single mothers or low-income families that also struggle with this worry.... Read 1,337 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Population 462,219

• Suburb of Durham, NC

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  Rating 4.26 out of 5  23 reviews

Current Resident: Hillsborough is a lovely, yet expensive town. Twin square has a lot of different amenities and local shops that all have amazing people and food!... Read 23 reviews

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Population 9,342

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.02 out of 5  125 reviews

Current Resident: In my experience it is a plus that we have so many restaurants nearby so it provides the people with an easy decision and you don't have to drive far because it's all in the same area. Although, there are a few negatives beginning with how at the 5 corner intersection, for those attempting to make a left turn there is not nearly enough space leading to a build up of cars. There needs to be a larger shoulder at this intersection to alleviate any possible drama that is yet to come.... Read 125 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Population 33,135

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 3.85 out of 5  104 reviews

Current Resident: Living in Garner has been a great experience so far. I have been living in this area for over 13 years now. Over the recent years there has been an abundance of growth and building up the community. Especially in the White Oak area and around that specific area. Also a new community center is being built within the community, which will be a great addition to the area. Before the pandemic, we had parades, a variety of performances and a plethora of other exciting and fun activities. Garner is a great place to be right now!... Read 104 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Population 30,859

• Town in North Carolina

• grade A

• grade A minus

• Population 2,642

• City in North Carolina

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  Rating 3.76 out of 5  685 reviews

Former Resident: I grew up in Durham, and it was a wonderful experience. The city has a unique mix of urban and suburban neighborhoods that provided me with different perspectives and experiences. Growing up in Durham, I was exposed to a diverse population with a mix of ethnic and cultural groups, which was an invaluable opportunity to learn and appreciate different cultures. Durham is also known for its universities, including Duke University and North Carolina Central University. As a result, education was always a top priority in our community, and I was fortunate to have access to excellent schools. One of the things I loved about Durham was the city's strong arts and culture scene. Events like the American Dance Festival and the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival provided me with opportunities to experience and appreciate different forms of art, which was very enriching. Overall, I am grateful for the experience of growing up in Durham, and I believe it has shaped me into the person I am today.... Read 685 reviews

• grade A

• grade B minus

• Population 279,106

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.09 out of 5  85 reviews

Current Resident: I love how knightdale is a growing community that is packed with large families. This makes for family friendly neighborhoods where everyone goes all out for holiday’s. As well as when something happens and or a challenge lands on all of our door steps, we come together as a community in both the good and tragic. One thing I would like to see change is the amount of accessible parks and or play area. Due to the focus of the area mainly being family oriented there should be more of an area for children to play rather than having them play in the streets. On that note I would also like to see more speed bumps and speed limits in the neighborhood’s knowing that children play in their front yards and the road. Other than that Knightdale is a great place to live it’s growing capacity is filled with love so weather you have a family or not, your young or old it’s a good place to be.... Read 85 reviews

• grade A

• grade B

• Population 18,614

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 4.07 out of 5  29 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Wendell my entire life since I was a kid. It is nice because there are 3 elementary schools and you have options to choose from depending on where you live. The Parks & Recreation Department offers lots of sports and activities throughout the year for families and kids. The town is really growing and the new neighborhoods are nice along with several new restaurants. I would like to see the high school become a little better academically. It is not the best in the area.... Read 29 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A minus

• Population 9,847

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.14 out of 5  144 reviews

Current Resident: One of the appealing aspects of Clayton is its friendly community. The town prides itself on its welcoming atmosphere and tight-knit neighborhoods. Residents often engage in community events and activities, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Clayton offers various recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The town features several parks and green spaces where people can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. The Clayton Community Center provides facilities for sports, fitness classes, and community gatherings. Another advantage of living in Clayton is its proximity to the Triangle area, which includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. This location allows residents to access the employment, educational, and entertainment opportunities available in the larger cities while still enjoying the quieter pace of life in Clayton.... Read 144 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Population 25,486

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.24 out of 5  17 reviews

Current Resident: Angier is my hometown. I have grown up surrounded by beautiful farmland. Downtown is cute and unique. I love grabbing a coffee and walking around. The town is know for its beautiful Crepe Myrtle trees. Couldn't ask for a better childhood home.... Read 17 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Population 5,312

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 3.94 out of 5  34 reviews

Current Resident: I currently go to school in Creedmoor and I absolutely love it! The town is small and there isn't much city life but if you are a "small town" person, then this is the town for you. Everybody here is so sweet and family really is the heart of this town. For any holiday you can name, Creedmoor has a celebration for it. Parades, games, trick or treating, you name it, Creedmoor has it! The neighborhoods are safe and the schools are amazing! I absolutely love all my teachers and even though my school is on the older side, it's the education that matters for me! Many AP Classes are offered along with helpful classes for those who are behind!... Read 34 reviews

• grade B

• grade C+

• Population 4,860

• Suburb of Raleigh, NC

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  Rating 4.27 out of 5  22 reviews

Current Resident: When people have asked me about Youngsville since I moved in July of 2022, I describe it as very homie and comforting. Usually, you can be surrounded by all the hustle and bustle of some towns and cities that it forces you to get tense when driving to work, school, and church. In Youngsville though, you get a nice 5-10 minutes for yourself before you encounter any fast pace action. Even the traffic, when there is traffic, in Youngsville does not feel bad because everyone feels the same way. Youngsville is very chill, very old-fashioned but upcoming, and its highlight is its downtown area. It's almost like God put a painting into place downtown. It's easily imaginable. One tight road with shops on both sides. 4 barber shops, a thrift store, an antique store, an ice cream parlor, and a deli. As I said, very comforting. In Youngsville, there's so much to find in the little it offers.... Read 22 reviews

• grade B

• grade B

• Population 2,503

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 4.4 out of 5  5 reviews

Current Resident: Butner is a small town, that has a lot more than anyone would ever think. They have many good food places, lakes, small owned businesses, and great people. Butner is right next to Creedmoor, and the combine to create a small but beautiful city. Butner has many country roads with beautiful forests and a lot of different types of people you will see. When you go to Butner, you normally will also go to Creedmoor, giving you access to everything you will ever need. This is a nice small town you can visit, maybe not plan a vacation, but the living experience here is great!... Read 5 reviews

• grade B

• grade C+

• Population 8,295

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 3.44 out of 5  9 reviews

Current Resident: A small town feel to this place, and such a great place to raise a family. I have grown up here for most of my life. I am 18 years old, nearly 19, and have been here since I was 3 years old. I have never moved from this house in the same neighborhood. There are friendly neighbors, one small grocery store, a dollar general, post office, a park, and even churches. Yes, it may be small, but it is great for making friends as well as having two gas stations. It is your choice where you go, but it is great for a late night after work and returning home in a safe place if needing to fill up for the next day. It is never too noisy, and if one needs help, asking a neighbor or a friend down the road is always an option. There is an elementary school as well as an inspection station for your car, that way you don't have to travel very far to get one!... Read 9 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Population 2,269

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 3.87 out of 5  31 reviews

Current Resident: No, those who reside in Zebulon do not lean liberal. You can take your high taxes and high crime somewhere else. If you're planning to flee you liberal hell hole it's also time to leave your voting record.... Read 31 reviews

• grade B

• grade A

• Population 6,958

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 3.77 out of 5  22 reviews

Current Resident: Benson is a calm town for the most part. New things have been recently done to make the city better. There are also a lot of community and business-sponsored activities you can participate in, especially for kids.... Read 22 reviews

• grade B

• grade B minus

• Population 3,871

• Town in North Carolina

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  Rating 3.25 out of 5  4 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Population 4,757