5 Best Places to Live in Raleigh, NC

Thinking of relocating to the heart of North Carolina? Whether you’re searching for a welcoming community, a safe neighborhood, or a vibrant lifestyle, there’s no shortage of great options in the Triangle area. If you’re wondering about the best places to live in Raleigh, NC, we’ve got you covered. From peaceful suburbs to bustling city districts, Raleigh offers something for everyone. Let’s explore the most desirable neighborhoods for families, professionals, and anyone ready to call Raleigh home.

1. North Hills – The Midtown Gem

North Hills, also known as “Midtown Raleigh,” is one of the best neighborhoods in Raleigh NC for those who love a modern urban lifestyle. It offers luxury apartments, stylish homes, top-rated restaurants, and high-end shopping. This walkable neighborhood is perfect for young professionals and families alike, with great schools and beautiful parks nearby.

PROS:

✅ 1. Live-Work-Play Lifestyle

• North Hills is a premier mixed-use urban village, offering residential living, office spaces, shopping, entertainment, and dining—all within walking distance.
• It’s ideal for professionals and families seeking convenience and a dynamic lifestyle.

✅ 2. Upscale Real Estate Options

• The area features a wide variety of modern apartments, luxury condos, and executive homes, appealing to both young professionals and affluent families.
• Many properties offer high-end amenities, walkability, and quick access to downtown Raleigh.

✅ 3. High-End Shopping and Dining

• Home to North Hills Mall, Midtown East, and The Lassiter, offering a mix of national retailers, boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, rooftop bars, and cafes.
• A hotspot for fashion enthusiasts, foodies, and nightlife lovers.

✅ 4. Year-Round Events & Entertainment

• Regularly hosts outdoor concerts, seasonal festivals, fitness events, and farmers markets.
• North Hills is a cultural hub that supports a strong sense of community and engagement.

✅ 5. Excellent Accessibility and Location

• Centrally located with quick access to Interstate 440 (Beltline), making commuting to downtown Raleigh, RTP, or the airport extremely convenient.
• Also offers excellent walkability, making it easy to navigate daily life without relying on a car.

2. Cary – One of the Best Suburbs of Raleigh NC

Consistently ranked among the best suburbs of Raleigh NC, Cary combines small-town charm with modern amenities. Known for its exceptional schools, low crime rates, and green spaces, Cary is a favorite for families and professionals. The community vibe and clean, safe environment make it an easy pick when asking, is Raleigh a good place to live? Cary proves the answer is a resounding yes.

PROS:

✅ 1. Exceptional Quality of Life

• Cary consistently ranks among the top places to live in the U.S. due to its balance of suburban comfort and urban amenities.
• Offers clean, safe, and family-oriented neighborhoods with a strong sense of community.

✅ 2. Top-Rated Schools

• Home to some of the highest-rated public and private schools in North Carolina.
• Part of the Wake County Public School System, which is one of the best-performing districts in the state.

✅ 3. Booming Job Market

• Proximity to Research Triangle Park (RTP)—one of the largest research parks in the country—makes Cary ideal for professionals in tech, biotech, pharmaceuticals, and finance.
• Many residents work for top companies like IBM, SAS, Cisco, and Lenovo.

✅ 4. Green Spaces and Outdoor Recreation

• Offers more than 30 public parks, greenways, and recreational facilities.
• Popular for hiking, biking, tennis, and water activities at Fred G. Bond Metro Park and Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve.

✅ 5. Low Crime Rate & Safety

• Cary is one of the safest cities in North Carolina with crime rates well below national averages.
• The town places a strong emphasis on community policing and public safety initiatives.

3. Five Points – Historic Charm Meets Urban Appeal

If you’re searching for a neighborhood with character, Five Points offers a blend of historical charm and trendy living. With its early 20th-century homes, boutique shops, and locally owned cafes, Five Points is one of the best Raleigh neighborhoods for those who want a unique and community-oriented lifestyle close to downtown.

PROS:

✅ 1. Charming Historic Character

• Five Points is known for its quaint, early 20th-century homes, many featuring Colonial Revival and Craftsman-style architecture.
• The area has preserved its old-town charm, offering a nostalgic feel paired with modern conveniences.

✅ 2. Eclectic Shopping & Dining Scene

• Home to a variety of independent boutiques, vintage shops, local restaurants, craft breweries, and cafes.
• Known for local favorites like Lilly’s Pizza, The Rialto Theatre, and NoFo at the Pig—a blend of dining and upscale gift shopping.

✅ 3. Tight-Knit, Community-Oriented Vibe

• Residents enjoy a close, friendly neighborhood atmosphere, with frequent block parties, farmers markets, and neighborhood events.
• A top choice for families, young professionals, and retirees who value a strong community connection.

✅ 4. Proximity to Downtown Raleigh

• Located just north of downtown Raleigh, Five Points offers easy access to the city center without sacrificing residential tranquility.
• Ideal for professionals working in downtown, offering a short commute and urban amenities nearby.

✅ 5. Family-Friendly Environment

• A desirable location for families due to great local schools, parks, and walkable streets.
• Offers nearby access to playgrounds, libraries, and community programs that support family living.

4. Apex – Family-Friendly Living in the Triangle

Often included in the list of best places to live around Raleigh NC, Apex offers a picturesque downtown, highly rated schools, and a strong sense of community. As one of the fastest-growing suburbs of Raleigh NC, Apex is a great choice for families who want the peace of suburban life without being far from the city.

PROS:

✅ 1. Charming Small-Town Atmosphere with Big Appeal

• Apex is affectionately called “The Peak of Good Living”, blending small-town charm with modern-day conveniences.
• Its historic downtown district is beautifully preserved, featuring boutique shops, cozy cafes, and community-centered events.

✅ 2. Award-Winning Livability Rankings

• Frequently ranked among the best places to live in America by sources like Money Magazine and Niche.com.
• Noted for high quality of life, affordability, and family-friendly amenities.

✅ 3. Excellent Schools and Family-Centric Communities

• Apex is served by top-rated public schools in the Wake County School District.
• Offers master-planned neighborhoods, community pools, playgrounds, and sports complexes—making it ideal for families.

✅ 4. Booming Job Market & Access to RTP

• A short drive to Research Triangle Park (RTP), Downtown Raleigh, and Durham, making it perfect for professionals.
• Residents benefit from a strong local economy with opportunities in tech, healthcare, and education sectors.

✅ 5. Green Spaces, Trails, and Parks

• Home to numerous parks, greenways, and recreational facilities, including Apex Community Park, Jordan Lake, and Beaver Creek Greenway.
• Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking biking, walking, boating, and fishing options.

5. Brier Creek – Convenient & Connected

Strategically located near Raleigh-Durham International Airport and major highways, Brier Creek is one of the best areas to live in Raleigh for commuters and frequent travelers. The neighborhood offers a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family houses, along with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

PROS:

✅ 1. Master-Planned Community with Diverse Housing Options

• Brier Creek offers a blend of single-family homes, luxury apartments, condos, and townhomes, catering to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets.
• Many communities include clubhouses, fitness centers, swimming pools, and golf access, ideal for families and professionals alike.

✅ 2. Proximity to Major Employment Hubs

• Strategically located near Research Triangle Park (RTP), RDU International Airport, and Downtown Durham and Raleigh.
• A top choice for professionals in tech, pharmaceuticals, biotech, and healthcare sectors due to minimal commute times.

✅ 3. Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment Hub

• Features Brier Creek Commons, a large retail and entertainment center with popular stores, movie theaters, restaurants, and specialty shops.
• Offers a convenient, one-stop destination for shopping, errands, and leisure activities.

✅ 4. Premier Golf & Recreation Facilities

• Home to the prestigious Brier Creek Country Club, offering an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, tennis courts, and a luxurious clubhouse.
• Surrounded by parks, walking trails, and fitness studios for an active lifestyle.

✅ 5. Family-Friendly Environment & Schools

• Offers access to highly-rated public and private schools, daycare centers, and youth activity programs.
• Safe streets, community-oriented neighborhoods, and a variety of amenities make it a great choice for raising a family.

Why Raleigh is a Great Place to Call Home

So, is Raleigh North Carolina a good place to live? Absolutely! With its booming economy, friendly communities, and top-notch educational institutions, Raleigh offers an unbeatable quality of life. Whether you’re eyeing downtown hotspots or the quiet charm of the suburbs of Raleigh, there’s a perfect neighborhood waiting for you.

3 Things That Make Raleigh a Good Place for Living

If we had to pick 3 things that make this city a nice place to live, these would be:

🌆 1. Thriving Job Market and Economic Opportunities

Raleigh offers a robust job market, anchored by Research Triangle Park (RTP), one of the largest tech and biotech hubs in the U.S. Major employers like IBM, Cisco, and WakeMed attract professionals across industries, making Raleigh ideal for career growth, entrepreneurship, and economic stability for families and individuals.

🏡 2. Exceptional Quality of Life and Affordability

Raleigh delivers a rare combination of urban amenities and suburban tranquility. With low crime rates, excellent healthcare, walkable neighborhoods, and affordable housing options, it offers a high quality of life. Residents enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with access to arts, culture, and nature—without the high costs of larger cities.

🎓 3. Top-Tier Education and Family-Friendly Living

Raleigh is home to nationally ranked schools and prestigious universities like NC State University. The city is ideal for raising families, offering family-centric neighborhoods, parks, libraries, and youth programs. Educational excellence, safe environments, and community values make Raleigh one of the most desirable places for long-term living.

Ready to Move? Let John’s Moving & Storage Help!

When you’ve found the perfect home in one of the best places to live in Raleigh, NC, let John’s Moving & Storage handle the hard part. Our licensed Raleigh moving company, expert packing services, family-friendly relocation support, and stress-free solutions tailored to your needs. We’re proud to serve the greater Triangle area and help new residents settle into their new homes with ease.

Book your move today with John’s Moving & Storage – your trusted partner for seamless relocation in the best neighborhoods in Raleigh NC. Whether you’re headed to North Hills, Cary, Five Points, Apex, or Brier Creek, we’ll help you get there effortlessly. Contact us now and make your transition smooth, stress-free, and exciting in one of the best places to live in Raleigh NC!