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City of Raleigh
City of Raleigh, the capital city of North Carolina, was established in 1792 and named after Sir Walter Raleigh. Known for its historical significance and thriving modern economy, City of Raleigh is also the seat of Wake County and home to North Carolina State University. With an area of 149.6 square miles, the city is intersected by the Neuse River in its northeastern corner.
Known as the “City of Oaks” due to its abundance of oak trees, City of Raleigh offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. In 2020, City of Raleigh had a population of 467,665, with a median age of 34.6 years, reflecting its appeal to a younger demographic. The city enjoys a subtropical climate, with its rainiest months being July and August, and it typically sees about 7 inches of snow in the winter. Forbes Home named Raleigh the overall second-best city to move to in 2024 due to its economic vitality and professional development opportunities. Additionally, a 2024 study by WalletHub ranked the Raleigh-Cary metropolitan area as the seventh most educated MSA in the U.S., with nearly 54% of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher.
City of Raleigh, located in east-central North Carolina, is divided into several major geographic areas, such as Inside the Beltline, East Raleigh, West Raleigh, Midtown Raleigh, North Raleigh, and South Raleigh.
Inside the Beltline (ITB) does not encompass the entire area within I-440 beltline; rather, it specifically refers to Downtown Raleigh and several surrounding residential neighborhoods. This vibrant urban center is rich in history and culture, featuring a mix of historic buildings, modern amenities, and diverse attractions. Downtown Raleigh is home to notable landmarks, such as the Sir Walter Raleigh Hotel, which has been a symbol of Southern hospitality since its opening in the 1920s. Fayetteville Street, an iconic thoroughfare, serves as the heart of the downtown area, lined with shops, restaurants, and venues that host a variety of events and festivals throughout the year.
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences is the crown jewel of Downtown Raleigh. As an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, this world-class museum is the largest natural history museum in the Southeast, featuring four expansive floors filled with fascinating exhibits, live animals, and interactive tours. Among Downtown Raliegh’s modern architectural highlights, PNC Plaza stands out as the city’s tallest skyscraper, rising 538 feet with 33 stories. Its sleek design and prominent location make it a defining feature of the Raleigh skyline, symbolizing the city’s continued growth and development.
Sir Walter Raleigh Hotel
The North Carolina Museum of Natural Science
City Skyscraper - PNC Plaza
Adding to the cultural vibrancy of Downtown Raleigh is the Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts, a premier venue for performing arts in the region. This state-of-the-art facility serves as the city’s hub for wide range of performances, from ballet and opera to Broadway shows, symphony concerts, and theatrical productions. The center is composed of four main venues: Memorial Auditorium, Kennedy Theatre, A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater, and the Meymandi Concert Hall, each offering a unique space for different types of performances. This diverse range of cultural offerings further cements Raleigh’s reputation as a thriving center for art and innovation.
Downtown Raleigh, the vibrant heart of the “City of Oaks,” is characterized by streets lined with towering oak trees, providing a refreshing contrast to the bustling urban landscape and reflect the city’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty. Surrounding Downtown Raleigh are some of the city’s most desirable residential neighborhoods, such as the North Blount Street Historic District, the Oakwood Historic District, and the Boylan Heights Historic District.
The North Blount Street Historic District is one of Raleigh’s most prestigious and historically significant neighborhoods, located just north of the city’s downtown core. Many of the homes in the North Blount Street district were built in Neoclassical, Colonial Revival, and Victorian styles, reflecting the wealth and prominence of the area’s early residents, which included politicians, business leaders, and professionals. Its architectural beauty and historical significance make it one of the most distinguished neighborhoods in the capital.
The Oakwood Historic District in Downtown Raleigh is one of the city’s most treasured and historically significant neighborhoods. Established in the late 19th century, Oakwood is Raleigh’s first official historic district, recognized for its well-preserved Victorian-era homes and eclectic architectural styles, including Queen Anne, Craftsman bungalows, and Neoclassical Revival, with a strong emphasis on ornate detailing, wraparound porches, and vibrant colors. Oakwood contains Raleigh's largest collection of nineteenth-century Victorian-era dwellings and its richest diversity of architectural styles overall.
The Boylan Heights Historic District is one of Raleigh’s most charming and historically significant neighborhoods, located just southwest of downtown. Established in 1907, it was one of the city's earliest planned suburbs and is now recognized as a National Historic District. The neighborhood is particularly famous for its Craftsman Bungalows, which dominate the landscape and showcase the architectural styles popular in the early 20th century.
Boylan Avenue, the main thoroughfare running through the heart of the neighborhood, offers stunning views of the Downtown Raleigh skyline and is home to some of the neighborhood’s most distinguished properties. One of the highlights of Boylan Heights is the Boylan Bridge, which offers a stunning view of the downtown Raleigh skyline. Additionally, the neighborhood hosts an annual Boylan Heights ArtWalk, a popular event where local artists display their work in the historic homes, attracting visitors from across the region.
Inside the Beltline is renowned for its vibrant lifestyle, offering walkable communities, boutique shopping, and proximity to Raleigh's top schools and universities. The area's real estate market is competitive, featuring a mix of historic homes and modern luxury developments. This blend of urban amenities and residential charm makes ITB a highly desirable destination for residents seeking both convenience and a sense of community.
East Raleigh refers to the area that lies east of Downtown Raleigh located within the Beltline. Just minutes from Downtown Raleigh, you will find the beautiful campus of Saint Augustine’s University. Established in 1867 as a private historically black Christian college, Saint Augustine’s University was founded with the mission of educating freed slaves and continues to serve as an important institution in the community, offering a range of degree programs and fostering a diverse learning environment.
In addition to its educational offerings, East Raleigh is home to Raleigh Country Club, one of the region's premier private golf and country clubs. Founded in 1948, Raleigh Country Club boasts a stunning 18-hole golf course originally designed by the legendary Donald Ross. The club features a picturesque setting and a rich history, providing a welcoming atmosphere for members and their families.
In 2020, Raleigh Country Club underwent an extensive renovation led by golf course designer Kyle Franz. This renovation focused on restoring and enhancing the course's original design features while modernizing it to meet contemporary golfing standards. Key improvements included revitalizing the greens, updating the bunkers, and enhancing the overall course layout to provide an enjoyable and challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. The club also emphasizes environmentally sustainable practices, ensuring that the natural landscape is preserved while minimizing chemical usage.
Another significant area in East Raleigh is the East Raleigh-South Park Historic District, which holds the distinction of being Raleigh’s largest historically African-American neighborhood. Located to the east and south of Downtown Raleigh, this vibrant district spans approximately 30 blocks and features a rich tapestry of history and culture. Many of the early homes in this neighborhood date back to the 19th century, showcasing a diverse array of architectural styles that reflect the resilience and contributions of the African-American community throughout the city’s history.
As Downtown Raleigh has experienced rapid growth in recent years, East Raleigh has begun to see a similar rise in property values. This increased interest in the area is attracting new residents and businesses, contributing to a vibrant community that blends historical charm with modern amenities. East Raleigh is evolving while still honoring its rich past, making it an appealing place for both newcomers and long-time residents.
West Raleigh is home to North Carolina State University (NCSU), one of the top public research universities in the United States. Founded in 1887 and part of the University of North Carolina System, NCSU has grown to become the largest university in the Carolinas with a vibrant and diverse student body of over 35,000. North Carolina State University is renowned for its strength in STEM fields, especially engineering and computer science, where it consistently ranks among the top institutions nationally. North Carolina State University is also a leader in agricultural sciences and veterinary medicine, contributing significantly to research and innovation in these areas. The athletic teams at North Carolina State University, known as the Wolfpack, embody a strong spirit of camaraderie and competition, enhancing the NCSU’s vibrant campus life and fostering a sense of ride among students and alumni.
A standout feature of North Carolina State University is the James B. Hunt Jr. Library, located on the NCSU’s Centennial Campus. This award-winning library is celebrated for its stunning architecture and cutting-edge technological integration, including a unique robotic book delivery system known as the bookBot. Time magazine has dubbed the NCSU’s Hunt library “the library of the future,” highlighting its role as a cutting-edge resource for NCSU students and researchers. In recognition of its exceptional design and functionality, the library received an AIIA/ALA Library Building Award in 2013, showcasing North Carolina State University’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for learning and research.
Memorial Belltower, Henry Square
James B. Hunt Jr. Library, NCSU
In addition to the academic and research opportunities offered by North Carolina State University, West Raleigh boasts a variety of beautiful parks and recreational spaces. Pullen Park, one of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S. and the first public park in North Carolina, offers rides, a carousel, and lush gardens. Dorthea Dix Park, a sprawling urban park, is ideal for outdoor activities and community events. Lake Johnson Park features 5.4 miles long scenic trails and a serene lake for kayaking and picnicking. The Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden, located behind Hillsborough Street, is another gem in the area, showcasing more than 60 varieties of roses and providing a picturesque setting for visitors.
Ranked by Insider as one of the top 25 museums in the country, the North Carolina Museum of Art is an absolute must-see for visitors to the area. Established in 1947 as the first state-funded art museum in the United States, NCMA boasts an impressive permanent collection, including classical antiquities, European Old Master paintings, African art, American art, and modern and contemporary works. The Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park, located outside the art museum, is the nation’s largest museum art park, encompassing 164 acres that seamlessly connect nature, art, and community, making it an integral part of the museum experience.
Just outside the Beltline, the JC Raulston Arboretum, administered by NCSU, is a nationally acclaimed botanic garden open to the public. The arboretum features a diverse collection of plants from over 50 countries and is known for having one of the most varied collections of landscape plants in the southeastern United States. William B Umstead State Park, located very close to the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, bridle, bike trails, boat rentals, camping, and picnic areas. Often referred to as the Central Park for the Triangle, it provides a 5,000-acre escape from urban life in Raleigh.
![] Mirror Labyrinth in the North Carolina Museum of Art Park](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/61c2d7_62d72e29171e4dbc950bcbfa3c8f54f1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_450,h_253,al_c,q_80,enc_avif,quality_auto/61c2d7_62d72e29171e4dbc950bcbfa3c8f54f1~mv2.jpg)
North Carolina Museum of Art
Cameron Village Historic District, the first planned community in Raleigh, began its journey in 1947, when visionary developers set out to create a space that would blend residential living with commercial accessibility. The area truly came to life with the opening of the Cameron Village Shopping Center in 1949, which became notable for being the first shopping center between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta. Today, Cameron Village is not just a popular shopping and dining destination; it is also a vibrant community where residents can enjoy a high quality of life. With easy access to nearby parks and recreational opportunities, the area strikes a perfect balance between historic charm and modern convenience, making Cameron Village a beloved and sought-after neighborhood in West Raleigh.
West Raleigh is a dynamic and welcoming community, largely shaped by the presence of North Carolina State University and its surrounding attractions. The university fosters a strong academic environment that attracts students, faculty, and visitors from across the region, while the nearby attractions encourage community engagement and outdoors activities. With a mix of vibrant campus life, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty, West Raleigh is a highly sought-after neighborhood for both residents and visitors. Its parks, museums, and recreational offerings contribute to the area's appeal, promoting a balanced lifestyle that integrates academic pursuits with a deep connection to nature.
Midtown Raleigh, a dynamic and rapidly evolving area, has its root in the development of North Hills Mall, one of Raleigh’s earliest suburban shopping malls and the first two-story, air-conditioned indoor mall between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta. However, by the early 2000s, the rise of newer shopping destinations and changes in consumer behavior led to a decline in the mall’s popularity, eventually resulting in its closure in 2003.
Rather than fading into obscurity, the North Hills area underwent a visionary redevelopment, transforming from a declining mall into a vibrant, mixed-use urban center. The original North Hills Mall was replaced by North Hills, an innovative open-air district that combines residential, retail, office, and entertainment spaces. This revitalized area is often regarded as one of the first examples of modern "lifestyle centers" in the region, setting the standard for similar developments in Raleigh and beyond. The North Hills redevelopment played a crucial role in catalyzing the growth of Midtown Raleigh.
Midtown Park, North Hills
North Hills Park and North Hills Club are two key features that add to the charm and appeal of Midtown Raleigh, offering residents ample opportunities for recreation and leisure. North Hills Park provides a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors, with amenities that include walking trails, picnic areas, tennis courts, and playgrounds. Known for its top-tier tennis programs, North Hills Club features multiple tennis courts, both clay and hard surfaces, making it a hub for tennis enthusiasts of all skill levels.
The Midtown area’s ongoing development has continued to attract businesses, new housing, and infrastructure improvements. Its proximity to the Beltline and major thoroughfares makes it easily accessible, further boosting its appeal. Midtown Raleigh is now known for its vibrant lifestyle, offering residents a balanced mix of residential tranquility and urban amenities. The neighborhood, while denser than North Raleigh, retains a suburban feel in some areas, while embracing rapid urbanization and growth, particularly around the junction of Six Forks Road and the Beltline.
When locals refer to North Raleigh today, they are talking about the area situated north of Midtown and south of I-540. North Raleigh is highly regarded for its natural beauty, entertainment options, and distinct communities. The area is rich in green spaces, parks, and scenic landscapes, offering residents plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities.
The scenic 144-acre Shelley Lake Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of recreational activities. Shelley Lake is known for its serene environment and picturesque views, making it a perfect location for those who enjoy the convenience of North Raleigh but frequently seek to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Durant Nature Preserve, a 237-acre former Boy Scouts camp, features two lakes: one for recreation and the other for peaceful nature walks and wildlife viewing, providing residents with ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. It is a haven for nature lovers, offering a more immersive natural experience compared to other urban parks.
In addition to its natural beauty, North Raleigh is a hub for entertainment and leisure. The area features a variety of shopping centers, such as Lafayette Village, with its European-style architecture, upscale boutiques, and gourmet restaurants, creating a vibrant atmosphere for dining and retail experiences. Crabtree Valley Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the region, offers a mix of high-end retailers and family-friendly options, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. North Raleigh is also home to an array of cultural and recreational events, including seasonal festivals, market concerts, providing year-round entertainment for people of all ages.
What truly sets North Raleigh apart from others parts of Raleigh, however, are its unique communities. From the luxurious homes of North Ridge with its golf course and country club lifestyle, to the charming, family-oriented neighborhoods like Stonehenge and Bent Tree, the area offers a diverse range of residential options that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. The neighborhoods in North Raleigh are known for their strong sense of community, where neighbors often come together for social gatherings, community events, and outdoor activities, creating a welcoming and supportive environment.
South Raleigh is the least developed and least densely populated part of Raleigh, offering a more rural and spacious feel compared to other areas. Bordered by Cary to the west, Garner to the east, Holly Springs to the Southwest, and Fuquay-Varina to the southeast, this region provides a blend of natural beauty and tranquility. A key highlight is the Historic Yates Mill County Park, home to the restored Yates Mill, a water-powered gristmill dating back to the mid-18th century, and an interactive museum focused on milling, as well as extensive hiking trails.
Another gem in South Raleigh is Juniper Level Botanic Garden, a 28-acre haven for nature lovers. Known for its serene atmosphere, the garden houses over 27,000 plant varieties, including rare and exotic species from around the globe. With its diverse collection of perennials, native plants, and unique botanicals, Juniper Level serves both as a research facility and a public garden. Visitors can explore the beautifully curated landscapes during seasonal open houses, making it a must-see for plant enthusiasts.
Many homes in South Raleigh are located outside of city limits, which means homeowners in these areas avoid paying city taxes. Additionally, properties may rely on private wells and septic systems instead of the public water and sewer services typically found within city boundaries. The ongoing construction of the I-540 outer loop is a significant development for the region, improving accessibility and likely driving future growth.
The City of Raleigh combines rapid growth with the charm of Southern hospitality, fostering a highly educated and diverse population. This balance has solidified Raleigh's reputation as a dynamic hub of innovation along the East Coast. Known not only for its academic and research institutions, city of Raleigh also boasts a vibrant cultural scene with a wide array of museums, art galleries, performing arts venues, and countless parks and greenways that provide recreational opportunities. For more details about Raleigh’s attractions, events, and initiatives, visit the official City of Raleigh website.
City of Raleigh Housing Market
City of Raleigh Market Trend : Listing Summary (December 2024)
Over the past 12 months in Raleigh, the average number of active listings was 1,429.3, while the average number of sold listings was 551.1. This results in a ratio of just 38.6%, the lowest among all cities and towns in the Triangle area.
City of Raleigh Market Trend : Pricing Summary (December 2024)
The sale price has consistently been lower than the original list price over the past 12 months, with the monthly average ratios at 97.77%—the lowest among cities and town in the Triangle area. This suggests that most sellers in Raleigh may need to lower their original asking price to finalize a sale.
City of Raleigh Market Trend : Timing Measure (December 2024)
Recently, Raleigh’s monthly absorption rate dropped to less than 3 months, driven by a decline in new listings during the fourth quarter of 2024. The increasing days on market in the fourth quarter suggest that many homes sold recently had been on the market for an extended period. For this quarter, Raleigh received a low market demand grade of D-, a decline from the D grade in the previous quarter.