Top 10 Best Cities Near Raleigh, NC — Close to the City and Far From the Bustle

As the third fastest-growing city in the U.S., North Carolina’s capital of Raleigh offers an agreeable mix of big-city perks, historic flavor, and natural beauty. And people are taking notice: Raleigh ranks No. 6 among the best places to live in the country by U.S. News & World Report. Metro residents get the benefit of the capital’s blend of traditional and contemporary amenities, but those living in cities near Raleigh, NC, can enjoy these features too — and often with a lower cost of living. 

Thinking of taking advantage of everything this charming Southern area has to offer? Take a look at the top 10 cities near Raleigh, NC, worth checking out.

Planning a move to the Raleigh area? Start by getting a quote from PODS.

Cost of Living in Raleigh, NC

Based on the U.S. index score of 100, the average cost of living in Raleigh comes in at a slightly higher 105.8. It’s also considerably higher than the state of North Carolina’s average cost of living, which is 89.5. That higher score means you can expect everyday expenses — think housing, utilities, and healthcare, among other things — to be a bit more pricey. 

Likewise, compared to the nation’s average home value of $362,500, a home in North Carolina's capital city runs an average of $447,000. If you want to cut down on these costs — and you don’t mind a commute — you can opt to live in one the best cities near Raleigh, NC, instead. 

Living Near Raleigh, NC — FAQs

Q: What cities are outside of Raleigh?
A: Some of the best suburbs of Raleigh, NC, include Hillsborough, Wake Forest, Apex, Cary, and Holly Springs. 

Q: What city is close to Raleigh?
A: At just a 15-minute commute to Raleigh, the community of Garner is one of the closest areas to Raleigh. 

Q: How far apart are Raleigh and Charlotte?
A: The major North Carolina cities of Raleigh and Charlotte are about two and a half hours away from each other. 

Q: Where is the best place to live near Raleigh?
A: The options abound, but the 10 cities near Raleigh, NC, we highlight below are a good place to start! They include Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Apex, Hillsborough, Carrboro, Garner, Morrisville, Cary, Wake Forest, and Knightdale. North Carolina truly has something for everyone, though, from Charlotte neighborhoods to the delightful town of Greensboro and beyond. And as the capital continues to grow and thrive, the cities close to Raleigh, NC, will offer even more for new residents.

Q: Where is the cheapest place to live near Raleigh, NC?
A: Eden, about 15 minutes from Raleigh, has a cost of living index of 78 —  22 percent less expensive than the rest of the country and more than 14 percent less expensive than the North Carolina average. Significantly lower home prices are part of why that index is so low, with the average home listed at just $145,600. The cheapest places on this list, though? That’s Garner and Knightdale.

10 of the Best Places to Live Near Raleigh, NC

While the capital certainly has a lot to offer, many cities near Raleigh, NC, are becoming even more coveted, thanks to the influx of new residents each year. If you’re looking for a reasonable commute time, a more affordable cost of living, and lower crime, a city close to North Carolina’s capital may be just the ticket. Check out 10 of our favorites.

1. Holly Springs, NC 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,675
• Average home value: $583,300
• Great for: Families, shopping, parks, fun activities 
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 25-minute drive

One of the fastest-growing cities near Raleigh, NC, is the suburb of Holly Springs. It’s situated only 20 miles from the capital and comes with a low crime rate and plenty of shopping centers and parks to explore. Neighborhoods include Arbor Creek, a family-friendly enclave of mid-size homes and townhomes within walking distance to the community pool, three playgrounds, and a clubhouse.

Bass Lake Park is a local hotspot for fishing aficionados, with a bass-stocked lake (true to its name!) and plenty of boats for rent, greenway trails for folks who prefer dry land, playgrounds for the kids, and more.

For foodies, Mamma Mia Italian Bistro dishes up delish traditional favorites — with a sports bar, too! In the mood for Thai? Try Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi, a unique option in the towns around Raleigh, NC. An eclectic menu features classic Japanese bites and innovative cocktails served either indoors or on the airy patio. Pro tip: Call for reservations.

2. Fuquay-Varina, NC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,600
• Average home value: $426,300
• Great for: Vibrant downtown, commuters, families, young professionals 
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 30-minute drive

The town of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, has a variety of great features for residents to enjoy, such as its two downtown districts and Fuquay Mineral Spring Park. Fuquay Springs was incorporated in 1909 and merged with Varina in 1963, creating the city that exists today.

With the city’s massive growth over the last 20 years, a lot of businesses have come to town, meaning more job opportunities and a thriving community for new residents moving here to enjoy. And Research Triangle Park is just a 40-minute commute — not too bad, considering all the perks of living in Fuquay-Varina. Golfers, for instance, will love Bentwinds Country Club, an upscale community and country club set amid the gorgeous North Carolina landscape. 

Dining options include the usual suburban eateries with several notable local spots — including Aviator Smokehouse, known for St. Louis-style smoked ribs, the famous MocoLoco sauce, and craft beer. And for more international flavors, check out Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine, a family-owned restaurant with a casual, inviting vibe and a focus on fresh, innovative fare. 

3. Apex, NC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,600
• Average home value: $621,500
• Great for: Families, shopping, restaurants, fun activities, great schools 
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 20-minute drive 

Located in Wake County, the historic town of Apex, North Carolina, is named for its location at the highest point along the Chatham Railroad line. Known today for its charming downtown, Apex offers plenty of shops and eateries — it’s one of the most vibrant cities among the cities close to Raleigh, NC. Make sure to check out Common Grounds Coffee House and Wake Oasis Coffee if you’re looking for a place to enjoy a cup or two. 

The town also has a variety of outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy, such as nature trails and recreation centers. Public schools in Apex are also noteworthy, with an A+ rating from Niche — which is more impressive considering the Wake County Public School System is the largest district in the state of North Carolina. 

And thanks to its proximity to Research Triangle Park, Apex, like many cities near Raleigh, NC, is home to many residents who work in the thriving tech industry. Epic Games, for instance, creator of Fortnite and other gamer faves, is headquartered nearby in Cary, and computer giant IBM has had a strong presence in the region for almost 60 years. 

4. Hillsborough, NC 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,475
• Average home value: $466,000
• Great for: Families, young professionals, retirees, art, community events
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 45-minute drive

Situated almost an hour northwest, Hillsborough is one of the most charming towns near Raleigh, NC, known for its thriving arts community, local galleries, and festivals. History is also a draw for locals and visitors who enjoy exploring historic sites and homes — some dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

Hillsborough is close to other major cities such as Durham and Chapel Hill, and the area offers an eclectic lifestyle that appeals to young professionals and families. It’s also popular among retirees looking for the perfect place to enjoy their golden years — with an emphasis on enjoy.  

The local Eno River State Park is one of many great local spots to hike, bike, and relax. Which is not to say Hillsborough is all about peace and quiet. The vibrant downtown area features landmarks including the Orange County Historical Museum and the Eno Mill Gallery, a hub for local creators. And as for dining, a Hillsborough standout among the many local eateries is The Nomad, which serves globally inspired cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. Must have: ceviche and bao buns. 

5. Carrboro, NC 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,375
• Average home value: $542,600
• Great for: Families, young professionals, fun activities, hiking 
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 40-minute drive

Just next door to Chapel Hill is Carrboro, proudly known to locals as “The Paris of the Piedmont.” This charming destination has a thriving arts community and an emphasis on inclusivity and equality that’s served as a model for other small Southern towns — including other cities near Raleigh, NC. 

Favorite local events include the Carrboro Farmers’ Market — open Saturday mornings year-round and Wednesday afternoons April through mid-November — and the 2nd Friday ArtWalk, a joint monthly venture with the town of Chapel Hill, home to the University of North Carolina. There are also plenty of scenic picnic areas and hiking trails in the local Carolina North Forest and along Bolin Creek. 

And as for dining, you can’t go wrong with the upscale Southern cuisine at Acme Food & Beverage Co., with faves like buttermilk fried chicken and a delicious take on traditional shrimp and grits. Venable Bistro, located in the historic Carr Mill Mall, has an equally tasty seasonally focused menu, featuring standouts like rotisserie chicken, fresh seafood, and the famous Venable burger.  

6. Garner, NC

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,450
• Average home value: $390,500
• Great for: Young professionals, families, retirees, restaurants, breweries, places to explore, commute
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 15-minute drive

The Wake County town of Garner, North Carolina, is an ideal destination for those who prefer a laid-back atmosphere and small-town charm in one of the best suburbs of Raleigh, NC. 

Situated close to various world-class restaurants, breweries, and fun attractions, Garner always has something fun to do. Some popular spots include the Historic Yates Mill County Park, which has about 175 acres of trails, gardens, and other outdoor spaces. For indoor fun, there’s Rush Hour Karting, a super-arcade with high-tech games, go-karts, virtual golf, ax throwing, air hockey, and more. 

If you’re looking for a city close to North Carolina’s Research Triangle Park, Garner is just a 30-minute drive, which makes it a convenient bedroom community for professionals who work in the district. But it’s also home to retirees and families. A variety of neighborhoods cater to this diverse population, including Tunbridge — a well-established community with spacious homes and nicely tended landscaping— and Adams Point, a favorite for those who prefer traditional suburbs.

7. Morrisville, NC 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,650
• Average home value: $504,300
• Great for: Families, young professionals, good neighborhoods, tech opportunities
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 25-minute drive

Proximity to important sites like Research Triangle Park, Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), and the headquarters of Lenovo make Morrisville a popular choice for people looking to move to a city near Raleigh, NC. It also ranks a highly respectable No. 2 on the 2024 Niche list of Best Suburbs to Live in North Carolina, thanks to an A+ school district, safe neighborhoods, and a convenient location between Raleigh and Chapel Hill. 

Foodies are pretty happy here, too. Babymoon Cafe, for example, serves Italian favorites to a business crowd during the week, with families and date-nighters enjoying the cozy patio and relaxed indoor dining room on weekends. And for fresh seafood, the local outpost of the Full Moon Oyster Bar, a statewide chain, will satisfy any craving.

Bonus: Even though it’s one of the best suburbs of Raleigh, NC, Morrisville is a day-trip distance to the stunning NC beaches of Wilmington (two-and-a-half hours) and a weekend-getaway distance to the mountains of Asheville (four hours). 

8. Cary, NC  

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,600
• Average home value: $634,100
• Great for: Families, young professionals, restaurants, shopping, education, commute
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 20-minute drive

The neighborhoods of Cary, NC, feature a variety of homes, recreational space, and retail hubs conveniently located near the RDU airport and major highways to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. But plenty of residents stick around Cary full time. The biggest employer, in fact, is SAS Institute, the largest privately held software company in the world. The Cary community is also known to be tight-knit and civic-minded, with robust engagement at town meetings and other public forums on issues like sustainable development and voting rights. 

But it’s not all business. Cary attractions include outdoor concerts, movies, and gatherings at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre — such as the NC Chinese Lantern Festival, which lights up the property with stunning silk sculptures from November through January every year.

Schools in the area earn high marks, as well. In fact, Green Level High School in Cary is rated No. 4 among all public high schools in North Carolina, according to Niche. Impressive! And higher education is well represented by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Duke University in Durham — both about 30 minutes from Cary — as well as North Carolina State University, just 10 minutes down the road in West Raleigh. A bit farther afield is Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem – a two-hour drive.

9. Wake Forest, NC 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,625
• Average home value: $527,400
• Great for: Families, retirees, young professionals, art, restaurants, parks
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 35-minute drive

Wake Forest is another charming destination among the cities near Raleigh, NC. A thriving arts scene, top-notch dining, and plenty of green space make this suburb a true gem. Residents enjoy the parks, trails, playgrounds, and fields at places including E. Carroll Joyner Park, H.L. Miller Park, and the Taylor Street Park Sprayground — a fun and refreshing waterpark, featuring “jets,” the “bucket trio,” the “arch,” and more. 

In downtown Wake Forest, beloved local eatery Over the Falls offers a mostly casual menu focused on burgers, flatbreads, seafood, and pasta dishes. (And contrary to the name, there’s no waterfall in sight near the restaurant.) 

A highlight of local seasonal events in Wake Forest is Friday Night on White, a live music performance downtown on — you guessed it — White Street, from April to September. 

10. Knightdale, NC 

• Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,525
• Average home value: $374,300
• Great for: Families, young professionals, outdoor activities, breweries
• Commute to Downtown Raleigh: 20-minute drive

Just 20 minutes east of Raleigh is Knightdale, a community known for its welcoming culture and ideal setting for starting a family. Schools are highly rated by Niche, and parks are plentiful — including the Knightdale Environmental Education Park and Knightdale Station Park, which features an amphitheater, an athletic field, a playground, and walking trails.

Neighborhoods in Knightdale are mainly quiet, family-friendly enclaves, like several other cities near Raleigh, NC. For instance, Princeton Manor, a master-planned community, has more than 400 homes, and Planters Walk features tree-lined streets, walking trails, and a community pool.

For an evening out with friends, locals head to Oak City Brewing Company, one of several small-craft breweries in the area. Food trucks join the fun on Friday nights — look for Caribbean Kicker and Fired-Up Pizza and BBQ. And Wednesdays and Saturdays, you’ll see residents participating in Beer Runs with the Oak City Run Club. 

PODS Can Help With Your Move to a City Near Raleigh, NC  

When planning a move to a town near Raleigh, NC, you can rely on PODS to help you get there. They’ll deliver a portable moving container to your driveway, you can pack it up on your own time, and then they’ll transport it to your new home. You’ll even get a month of free storage with your move.

Editor’s note: For ease of reading, monthly rental prices were rounded to the nearest $25 and home values were rounded to the nearest $100.