Small Town Living Near Raleigh and Durham
A Local Guide to the Triangle’s Growing Communities
The Raleigh-Durham area is known for its strong job market, research institutions, and growing population. Many buyers relocating to the Triangle look just outside the larger cities for communities that offer charm, convenience, and a strong sense of community.
Follow along as I explore several of our small towns. Below is a brief description. I'll be adding additional blogs diving into each small town.
From historic railroad towns to newer communities shaped by the region’s rapid growth, the towns surrounding Raleigh and Durham offer a mix of walkable downtown areas, parks, and access to major highways. Below is a guide to several of the Triangle’s most popular small towns.
Cary, North Carolina
A Crowd Pleaser! When you move to the Triangle Area, you'll likely have someone tell you to check out Cary. This little town previously known as a sleepy little bedroom town made the map and started growing back in the 70s and 80s when RTP came about and SAS began recruiting to the area. Now it's a destination town.
A Brief History
Cary began as a railroad town in the mid-1800s. The arrival of the North Carolina Railroad helped the area grow into a small trading center. Over the past several decades, Cary has become one of the fastest growing communities in the state while keeping a focus on parks and greenways.
Why People Are Moving Here
Cary is known for well planned neighborhoods, extensive greenways, and convenient access to Research Triangle Park. Many residents appreciate the balance of suburban living with nearby urban amenities.
Things to Do
Residents enjoy The New Downtown Cary Park, Koka Booth Amphitheatre, and the Cary Greenway system. The downtown area continues to grow with restaurants, breweries, and community events.
Location
Cary sits between Raleigh and Research Triangle Park, about 20 minutes from Durham and 30 minutes from Chapel Hill.
What Makes Cary Popular
Its central location, strong park system, excellent schools and growing downtown have made Cary one of the most sought after communities in the Triangle.
Apex, North Carolina
Apex is the little town that could. It's made the Best Small Town in America list, has an adorable downtown area, and has followed Cary's lead with parks and Greenways.
A Brief History
Apex earned the nickname “Peak of Good Living” because it was the highest point on the Chatham Railroad line in the late 1800s. Its historic downtown still reflects its railroad roots.
Why People Are Moving Here
Apex offers a walkable downtown with locally owned shops and restaurants. Many residents enjoy the small town feel with easy access to major job centers.
Things to Do
Downtown Apex hosts festivals, farmers markets, and community events throughout the year. The Downtown area has a skate park for kids and is currently building out it's social district. Jordan Lake is also a short drive away for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Location
Apex is about 20 minutes from Raleigh, 25 minutes from Durham, and roughly 30 minutes from Chapel Hill.
What Makes Apex Quaint
The preserved historic downtown and active community calendar give Apex a welcoming small town character.
Holly Springs, North Carolina
Holly Springs features a new and modern Downtown Area. You'll notice many of the town's municipal buildings are new. Don't let that fool you, Downtown Holly Springs is rich in history and culture.
A Brief History
Holly Springs began as a crossroads community in the early 1800s and grew around a natural spring that supplied fresh water to travelers.
Why People Are Moving Here
Holly Springs has grown quickly while maintaining a community focused atmosphere. New parks, recreation facilities, and shopping centers have added to its appeal.
Things to Do
Popular destinations include Bass Lake Park, Ting Park, and the Holly Springs Cultural Center.
Location
Holly Springs is about 25 minutes from Raleigh and about 35 minutes from Durham and Chapel Hill.
What Makes It Popular
Outdoor recreation and newer developments continue to attract buyers looking for space and convenience.
Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina
The Town with two Downtowns! You'll find the old Town of Varina and the old Town of Fuquay Springs just around the corner from one another. How fortunate can one be? It might be one of the friendliest towns around.
A Brief History
Fuquay-Varina formed when two small communities merged in the early 1900s. One area grew around mineral springs that were once promoted as a health destination.
Why People Are Moving Here
Fuquay-Varina offers a growing downtown district with breweries, restaurants, and community events.
Things to Do
Residents enjoy the Arts Center, downtown districts, and nearby parks.
Location
Fuquay-Varina is about 30 minutes from Raleigh and about 40 minutes from Durham.
What Makes It Quaint
The town still maintains two historic downtown districts, giving it a unique layout and local character.
Pittsboro, North Carolina
A town with cool vibes and rapid growth. Disney thought it was so special that it chose to build a planned community there.
A Brief History
Pittsboro was established in the late 1700s and serves as the county seat of Chatham County. Its courthouse circle remains the center of town.
Why People Are Moving Here
Many buyers are drawn to Pittsboro for its slower pace and proximity to nature while still being near major employment centers.
Things to Do
Jordan Lake offers boating, hiking, and camping. Downtown Pittsboro has galleries, restaurants, and local shops.
Location
Pittsboro is about 35 minutes from Raleigh and about 25 minutes from Chapel Hill.
What Makes It Special
Its historic courthouse circle and arts community give Pittsboro a unique small town atmosphere.
Garner, North Carolina
A small town next to a big city! Garner literally borders Raleigh and is very convenient to the big town life while maintaining it's small town charm.
A Brief History
Garner developed as a railroad hub in the late 1800s and grew as agriculture and industry expanded in the region.
Why People Are Moving Here
Garner offers close proximity to Raleigh with a growing number of shopping, dining, and recreation options.
Things to Do
Lake Benson Park and White Deer Park provide walking trails, events, and outdoor programs.
Location
Garner is about 15 minutes south of downtown Raleigh and about 40 minutes from Durham.
What Makes It Popular
Its location close to Raleigh makes commuting simple while still offering a suburban feel.
Clayton, North Carolina
One of the fastest growing towns in the Triangle area over the past decade. Today's Clayton is nearly unrecognizable to those who haven't visited in a while.
A Brief History
Clayton developed along the railroad in the late 1800s and grew as a farming community.
Why People Are Moving Here
Clayton has experienced rapid growth thanks to its expanding downtown and proximity to Raleigh.
Things to Do
The Clayton Center hosts concerts and shows. The Mountains to Sea Trail runs nearby for hiking and biking. There's also more shopping, retail and restaurants coming to Clayton.
Location
Clayton is about 20 minutes from Raleigh and about 45 minutes from Durham.
What Makes It Quaint
Clayton’s walkable downtown and active events calendar add to its charm.
Zebulon, North Carolina
I've found Zebulon to have quintessential Small Town Charm. Many people in the Triangle area have never been to Zebulon unless they know someone who lives there. I think the locals would prefer to keep it that way.
A Brief History
Zebulon formed around the railroad in the early 1900s and was named after North Carolina governor Zebulon Vance.
Why People Are Moving Here
Zebulon offers a quieter setting with easy access to Raleigh.
Things to Do
Five County Stadium hosts minor league baseball games and community events.
Location
Zebulon sits about 30 minutes east of Raleigh.
What Makes It Unique
Its small town atmosphere and local events help create a close knit community feel.
Wendell, North Carolina
Like Zebulon, Wendell is a quaint Small Town charm and are two of the last developing areas in Wake County. You can find homes reasonably priced. Large lots are becoming harder to find. The area near Wendell Falls is beautiful and newer.
A Brief History
Wendell was established in the early 1900s as a railroad town.
Why People Are Moving Here
New neighborhoods and a growing downtown district are drawing attention from buyers seeking convenience, affordability, and charm.
Things to Do
Wendell Falls and the town park system provide trails and gathering spaces.
Location
Wendell is about 25 minutes from Raleigh.
What Makes It Charming
The revitalized downtown and community events highlight Wendell’s local character.
Wake Forest, North Carolina
Come for the town and stay for the townsfolk. You'll find proud Wake Forest residents here. It's a beautiful town with a close knit community.
A Brief History
Wake Forest began as the home of Wake Forest College before the school relocated to Winston-Salem in the 1950s.
Why People Are Moving Here
Wake Forest offers a mix of historic charm and new development.
Things to Do
Downtown Wake Forest hosts festivals, concerts, and farmers markets.
Location
Wake Forest is about 25 minutes north of Raleigh and about 40 minutes from Durham.
What Makes It Popular
Its historic downtown and active community events attract many residents.
Angier, North Carolina
The town of Crepe Myrtles is a well kept secret.
A Brief History
Angier developed along the railroad in the early 1900s and grew as an agricultural community.
Why People Are Moving Here
Angier offers a slower pace with growing development and convenient access to Raleigh.
Things to Do
The Crepe Myrtle Festival is one of the town’s most popular annual events.
Location
Angier is about 30 minutes south of Raleigh.
What Makes It Quaint
The small downtown area and local festivals give Angier its charm.
Knightdale, North Carolina
There's a buzz about Knightdale right now. It's affordable, beautiful and easy to get to off Hwy 540.
A Brief History
Knightdale formed along the railroad in the early 1900s and has grown steadily as the Raleigh metro expanded.
Why People Are Moving Here
Knightdale offers newer neighborhoods and quick highway access to downtown Raleigh.
Things to Do
Knightdale Station Park hosts community events, trails, and recreation facilities.
Location
Knightdale is about 15 minutes from downtown Raleigh.
What Makes It Popular
Its proximity to Raleigh and growing amenities attract many buyers.
Morrisville, North Carolina
Everyone who flies into RDU knows about Morrisville. It's a great town for easy access to RDU. Don't be fooled, Morrisville has grown up and shed it's reputation as a suburb of Cary.
A Brief History
Morrisville developed around the railroad and later expanded as Research Triangle Park grew nearby.
Why People Are Moving Here
Its location near RTP and Raleigh-Durham International Airport makes it a convenient place to live.
Things to Do
Lake Crabtree County Park offers trails, kayaking, and biking.
Location
Morrisville sits between Raleigh and Durham and about 20 minutes from Chapel Hill.
What Makes It Attractive
Its central location within the Triangle makes commuting easier.
Smithfield, North Carolina
Smithfield is more than just a outlet shopping mall destination. It's developing into a full-fledged desirable town. Old farms are selling out to developers. There's actually quite a bit available to those who live there. Now the Triangle area is expanding to this town and people are choosing to live here as evidenced by the 540 toll road expansion.
A Brief History
Smithfield dates back to the 1700s and serves as the county seat of Johnston County.
Why People Are Moving Here
Smithfield offers a historic downtown and growing development along the I-95 corridor.
Things to Do
The Ava Gardner Museum and Carolina Premium Outlets draw visitors from across the region.
Location
Smithfield is about 40 minutes from Raleigh.
What Makes It Special
Its historic downtown and local attractions give it a distinctive identity.
Willow Spring, North Carolina
Is it Willow Spring or Willow Springs? Well, it's both depending on the county. Located partially in Wake County and partially in Johnston County, you'll love the beauty of Willow Spring.
A Brief History
Willow Spring developed as a rural farming community and remains one of the quieter areas of Wake County.
Why People Are Moving Here
Many buyers look to Willow Spring for larger properties and a more rural setting while still being within reach of Raleigh.
Things to Do
Residents enjoy nearby parks, local farms, and quick access to outdoor recreation.
Location
Willow Spring is about 30 minutes from Raleigh and close to Fuquay-Varina and Angier.
What Makes It Appealing
Its peaceful setting and open space make it attractive to those seeking a slower pace.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Living in Chapel Hill, North Carolina
More than just a college town, it's a vibe so many people love.
A Classic College Town in the Heart of the Triangle
Chapel Hill is one of the most recognizable towns in North Carolina. Known for its historic university, lively downtown, and tree lined neighborhoods, it offers a blend of culture, education, and small town character. Located in Orange County, Chapel Hill sits in the western part of the Triangle and is just minutes from Durham and within easy reach of Raleigh.
For many people moving to the region, Chapel Hill stands out as a place where history, education, and community life all come together.
A Town Built Around a Historic University
Chapel Hill’s story dates back to the late 1700s when it was selected as the home of the University of North Carolina. Established in 1789, UNC Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and has played a major role in shaping the town’s identity.
As the university grew, the town developed around it, creating a walkable downtown area centered along Franklin Street. Today, the university continues to bring research, healthcare, and innovation to the region.
Proximity to Major Employment Centers
One of Chapel Hill’s advantages is its location within the Triangle.
The town is about 15 minutes from Durham, 30 minutes from Raleigh, and roughly 25 minutes from Research Triangle Park. These connections make it convenient for people working in healthcare, education, technology, and research.
UNC Health, Duke University and Health System in nearby Durham, and companies located in Research Triangle Park are all within an easy commute.
Things to Do in Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill offers a wide range of cultural and outdoor activities.
Franklin Street is the heart of the town and is known for its restaurants, coffee shops, bookstores, and local boutiques. It is also home to community celebrations, sports gatherings, and local festivals throughout the year.
The university campus offers museums, performing arts venues, and athletic events that attract visitors from across the state. The Ackland Art Museum and the Morehead Planetarium are two well known destinations.
Outdoor lovers also appreciate the town’s parks and nearby natural areas. The Carolina North Forest and the trails around nearby Jordan Lake provide opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.
A Walkable and Historic Downtown
One of the things people often notice about Chapel Hill is its classic college town atmosphere. Historic buildings, tree lined streets, and locally owned businesses give the downtown area a unique character.
This walkable environment makes it easy to explore restaurants, attend events, or simply enjoy a day around town.
Why People Choose Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill continues to attract buyers for several reasons.
Its location near Durham and Research Triangle Park provides access to major employers. The presence of the university brings cultural events, research opportunities, and educational resources. The town also offers a strong network of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces.
At the same time, Chapel Hill maintains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that many people appreciate.
What Makes Chapel Hill Special
Chapel Hill blends the energy of a university town with the charm of a historic community. From lively Franklin Street to quiet parks and cultural attractions, it offers a lifestyle that combines education, arts, and outdoor recreation.
For many people exploring the Triangle region, Chapel Hill remains one of the most distinctive and appealing towns in the area.
Special Note: Parts of Chapel Hill can be found in Chatham County. There is a distinction and you'll see the difference as you visit the two areas.
Follow me as I explore each small town a bit further in my Small Town Series.
Carla Freund, CSHP, CLHMS, Relocation Specialist
Keller Williams Legacy
919-602-8489
www.TriangleHomesAndRealEstate.com
Comments(1)