Living in Durham, NC
Explore Things To Do, Cost of Living, Top Restaurants and More

• 2026 Top 100 Best Places to Live
• 2025 Top 100 Best Places to Live

Thinking of moving to Durham, NC? You’ve come to the right place! You will find all the details about living here, from insight into the quality of life and cost of living to details about industry and job opportunities to lists of fun things to do.

Why You’ll Love Living in Durham, NC

The quality of life in Durham, NC, is unparalleled. Home to a top-ranking hospital system, the prestigious Duke University and an abundance of arts, international foods and entertainment, it’s no wonder that Durham is a great place to live.

Dynamic and diverse are words that describe living in Durham. This city of 304,063 in North Carolina’s Piedmont region has a strong economy, thanks to its location in the Research Triangle. The economy is also bolstered by an energetic startup culture and established companies, making it known as a Silicon Valley of the South. 

From the arts to the outdoors, the city is booming with opportunities. It’s artsy, with both renowned film and dance festivals and the largest performing arts center in the state, Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC). The Durham Arts Council also offers creative learning opportunities for people in the community. That, along with affordable housing, a low cost of living and a first-rate public school system, makes living in Durham desirable. The city is also home to North Carolina Central University, the nation’s first public liberal arts college for African Americans.

However, the city is also steeped in tradition and rich in history, evident throughout the town. Stunning architecture – especially on the Duke University campus – eclectic restaurants and a rich history make this city the perfect place to live, work and play. Plus, you can’t match the boho vibe on Ninth Street, where you’ll find interesting shops and dining spots, or the reinvented work and entertainment district known as the American Tobacco Campus, which used to be a busy industrial district and the headquarters of the American Tobacco Company.

Top Reasons to Move to Durham

• There are plenty of economic opportunities in Durham. The city is known as the “Silicon Valley of the South,” and residents have access to a high-growth, high-wage economy.
• Home to Duke University and Health System, Durham residents have easy access to incredible health care options.
• Durham attracts major tech and life-science employers and is the primary point of the Research Triangle Park, the largest research park in the country.
• Supported by Duke University, North Carolina Central University and a diverse public school system, Durham is a highly educated city. 

Durham is a dynamic city in the heart of the Research Triangle, right along Interstate 40 and Interstate 85. The nearest airport, Raleigh-Durham International Airport, is about 15 miles south, making it a convenient option for flights. When you’re ready to venture out, here’s how close you are to some major nearby cities:

• Raleigh is just 25 miles southeast, where you can explore the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences or catch a game at PNC Arena.
• Chapel Hill sits 10 miles west, known for the University of North Carolina and the Morehead Planetarium.
• Greensboro is about 55 miles northwest, home to the International Civil Rights Center & Museum and the Greensboro Science Center.

The temperate weather here means pleasant springs, hot, humid summers and mild winters. Temps are generally pleasant enough for outdoor activities year-round.

Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, Durham is home to several Fortune 500 companies. The city’s mix of corporations and energetic startups lures people into the job market. The economy is deeply rooted in technology, health care and education. Duke Energy, one of the largest energy companies in the country, is headquartered here and provides electric and gas services to millions of customers across six states.

The cost of living in Durham is below the national average. The median home value in Durham is $417,257, and the average household income is $84,645.

North Carolina has a state income tax, and those living in Durham can expect a combined sales tax rate of 7.5% in 2026.

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Durham is known as the “City of Medicine” because of its strong presence in health care, medical research and biotechnology. Home to Duke University and Duke University Medical Center, globally recognized for their contributions to medical education, research and patient care. Its reputation as a medical hub dates back to the 20th century, when Duke played an essential role in advancing medical research. Today, the city is home to more than 300 medical and health-related companies. 

Residents can enjoy a dynamic lifestyle in this North Carolina city. The city’s cultural scene is anchored by DPAC, which hosts Broadway shows, concerts and comedy shows, and the Carolina Theatre, a historic venue for films and performances. Immerse yourself in the local arts at the Durham Arts Council, the Durham Civil Rights Mural or the Nasher Museum of Art, which has contemporary and classical exhibits. The Duke Homestead State Historic Site and the Hayti Heritage Center are local favorites. The Museum of Life and Science provides interactive experiences, and the Carolina Theatre is a gorgeous historic venue for films.

The city is community-oriented thanks to the number of events and recreational opportunities. The Durham Bulls Athletic Park offers the excitement of minor league baseball, and the Durham Farmers’ Market provides a taste of local produce and goods. Take curious kiddos to the Duke Lemur Center or the Scrap Exchange, a creative reuse arts center that collects materials from over 250 local industries for crafting. The revitalized American Tobacco Campus and Historic Brightleaf Square offer unique shopping and dining experiences, while the 9th Street District is home to several independent shops and bookstores.

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North Carolina is known for its outdoor adventures, and Durham is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The city has an extensive network of parks and trails, including the American Tobacco Trail, a 22-mile rails-to-trails project perfect for walking and biking, and the Eno River State Park, which has nearly 30 miles of hiking trails. The Sarah P. Duke Gardens are a tranquil escape with 50-plus acres of preserved gardens and 5 miles of accessible pathways. The Duke Forest is also an excellent spot for hiking and mountain biking.

For those looking to get their feet wet, Lake Michie and Falls Lake State Recreation Area offer fishing, boating, swimming and camping. Durham Central Park is a community hub that hosts outdoor concerts and events. Residents can also enjoy the Al Buehler Trail, a 3-mile loop around the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club, offering a scenic route for walking and jogging.

The city has blossomed into a foodie haven in recent years. The city’s revitalized districts, like the American Tobacco Historic District, now house a mix of restaurants and bars, earning Durham the title of “South’s Tastiest Town.” There is an emphasis on community and local sourcing around town, and spots like Bull City Burger and Brewery and Fullsteam Brewery champion “farm to tank” and “Southern Beer Economy” philosophies, respectively. The city has a diverse menu of dining experiences, from French-inspired cuisine at Rue Cler to the eclectic offerings at Durham Food Hall. The Bullpen social district is also a favorite spot for food and beverage offerings. Durham’s craft beer scene is equally impressive, with spots like Ponysaurus Brewing Company contributing to its lively atmosphere.

This city is a highly educated place to live. The Durham Public Schools District has undergone redistricting in recent years, and performance varies from school to school. However, several top-notch public, private, magnet and charter schools are in the area.