Life in Raleigh, North Carolina

Discover the essence of life in Raleigh, as we explore all this vibrant city offers throughout the year. 

Nicknamed the “City of Oaks,” Raleigh is beloved for its many oak trees and abundance of cost-free museums. Just west of downtown lies Pullen Park, North Carolina’s very first public park, offering numerous recreational amenities. Also noteworthy is the Raleigh Beer Garden, acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records for its staggering selection of over 350 beers.

Residents enjoy living expenses 4% below the national average (according to the latest PayScale data), complemented by Raleigh’s economy, which was recently named America’s “second best performing,” as reported by Axios on February 6th, 2024. With a variety of attractions such as the North Carolina Museum of Art and JC Raulston Arboretum, this city offers an ideal setting for establishing roots.

Raleigh offers an array of upcoming events, promising memorable experiences and lasting enjoyment for attendees. As summer approaches, the city will host the weekly Midtown Beach Music Series, every Thursday from April through June, and Live in the District Music Series, also on Thursdays in April and May. Following these events, both locals and tourists can look forward to the Independence Day Celebration in the nearby town of Cary. 

As the year draws to a close, Raleigh will celebrate the holiday season with the Raleigh Christmas Parade in November and WRAL First Night Raleigh on New Year’s Eve. 

Among Raleigh’s finest neighborhoods, Oakwood, Cameron Village, and Boylan Heights stand out. Let’s briefly explore each below:

Oakwood, nestled in downtown Raleigh, houses a vibrant culinary scene and a wide range of residential properties spanning from colonial-era homes to contemporary dwellings, catering to all tastes and preferences. 

Just beyond downtown, Cameron Village offers shopping centers with skyline vistas, locally owned businesses, and a world-class library. The residential options are equally impressive, encompassing historic homes, ranches, and more. 

In Boylan Heights, renowned for its distinctive architectural styles and scenic trails, residents enjoy access to exceptional nearby farmers markets and the beloved Dorothea Dix Park, a popular destination year-round and a hub for seasonal festivities.  

Raleigh’s real estate market is fiercely competitive. According to Redfin data from March 2024, the median home sale price was $409,500, reflecting a 5.3% year-over-year increase. Homes typically enter pending status within just 16 days, with the most sought-after listings leaving the market after about five days. All things considered, the current real estate landscape heavily favors sellers over buyers.