Durham is the 4th largest city in North Carolina, and is one of the three cities that make up the corners of the NC Triangle - home to Research Triangle Park. Durham’s population is currently 283,506 which is a heavy contribution to the Triangle ‘s population of 2,079,687. Durham is is about 18 minutes (with no traffic) from Research Triangle Park and Raleigh-Durham International Airport, respectively. Durham is home to several recognized institutions of higher education, most notably Duke University and North Carolina Central University. Durham is also a national leader in health-related activities, which are focused on the Duke University Hospital along with several other private companies which gives it its name “City of Medicine. Durham is home of the minor league baseball team, Durham Bulls and the natives of Durham refers to their beloved city as the “Bull City”. Duke and its Duke University Health System are the largest employers of the city. North Carolina Central University is a historically black university that is part of the University of North Carolina system. Together, the two universities make Durham one of the strongest contributors of talent to the Research Triangle area. Durham has become a hotspot for arts and culture and is home to many festivals, including the Art of Cool. Durham Is about two hours to Charlotte if you want to catch an NBA (Charlotte Hornets) or NFL (Carolina Panthers) game. The City of Durham is three hours from the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and two hours from several of North Carolina’s beautiful beaches.
Get to Know Durham North Carolina
If you're considering a move to a city with affordable living options and robust employment opportunities, Durham, North Carolina should be at the top of your list.
This hub of innovation and culture is part of the Research Triangle, encompassing Raleigh and Chapel Hill, and stands out with its unique blend of educational institutions, health industries, and tech-forward enterprises.
What to Know Before Moving to Durham
Durham is a city of contrasts, combining the historical with the modern, the artistic with the scientific. Although Durham shares the Research Triangle with Raleigh, it comes with its distinct charm and its housing market nuances.
An increase in local development and a surge in demand have influenced the cost of living, similar to what's witnessed in Raleigh.
However, Durham's government and community initiatives have been put in place to foster more affordable housing options.
Families choosing to settle in Durham have access to a vibrant schooling system, including distinguished public and charter schools, along with respected private institutions.
Educational strength is offered by renowned universities like Duke University and North Carolina Central University.
Housing in Durham
Durham provides a diversity of living options, similar to Raleigh. The city boasts multiple phenomenal luxury neighborhoods, ranging from the active downtown scene to the serene corners of suburban areas.
The housing landscape in Durham is varied, offering apartments, condos, townhomes, as well as single-family homes, often at prices more attainable than those in Raleigh.
The Durham Housing Authority and the city's Community Development Department have active programs to make housing more affordable and accessible, including the Durham Housing Choice Voucher Program, which aids in subsidizing rent expenses.
Employment in Durham
Job prospects in Durham are bright and many due to its fast-growing sectors like biotech, healthcare, education, and IT.
Local job fairs and online resources such as Indeed.com offer pathways to employment. Moreover, Durham places an emphasis on fostering a supportive environment for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
With its strategic economic growth policies, the city continually attracts talent and investment.
Culture and Lifestyle in Durham
Durham's cultural scene is just as rich as Raleigh's, with a variety of museums, historical sites, and art centers, such as the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University.
The robust culture promotes an inclusive and engaging community atmosphere.
Residents and visitors alike can indulge in annual festivals, such as the well-known American Dance Festival and the Durham Bulls baseball games, or dive into the flourishing culinary scene.
Frequently Asked Questions about Durham North Carolina
What is the average cost of living in Durham, NC compared to Raleigh, NC?
The cost of living in Durham is generally considered to be more affordable than in Raleigh. Although housing prices have been on the rise in the entire Research Triangle area due to increased demand, Durham has worked to offer more budget-friendly housing options. Additionally, daily living expenses such as groceries, transportation, and healthcare are slightly lower in Durham than in Raleigh.
How do the educational opportunities in Durham compare with those in Raleigh?
Durham is home to top-tier educational institutions, most notably Duke University and North Carolina Central University, which offer excellent higher education opportunities. For K-12 education, Durham Public Schools offer various educational programs and have magnet and charter school options, similar to those in Raleigh. Durham's educational opportunities are competitive and can be considered on par with Raleigh, with a variety of choices to fit different educational needs.
What industries are the biggest employers in Durham?
Durham's economy is dynamic, with robust sectors that include biotechnology, healthcare, information technology, and education. Major employers include Duke University and Duke University Health System, IBM, and companies within the Research Triangle Park, renowned for its high-tech research and development. These industries offer diverse job opportunities ranging from research, healthcare, tech, and educational roles.
Are there any initiatives to help with housing affordability in Durham?
Yes, Durham has several initiatives aimed at improving housing affordability. The city's Community Development Department works to foster affordable housing and community development. Programs like the Durham Affordable Housing Goals provide funding and resources for the development and preservation of affordable housing. The Durham Housing Choice Voucher Program, another initiative, helps families with subsidies to rent private market homes.
Can you recommend any family-friendly activities in Durham?
Durham is rich in family-friendly activities. The Museum of Life and Science is particularly popular with its interactive exhibits and outdoor nature park. The scenic Eno River State Park offers outdoor adventures like hiking, picnicking, and fishing. The Durham Bulls Athletic Park, where you can catch a baseball game, is a great family pastime. And don't forget about the numerous community events and festivals that take place throughout the year, which are often catered to families and children.