Moving to Raleigh, NC? 10 Things You Need to Know Before You Go

Thinking about moving to Raleigh, NC? You're not alone. Raleigh is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., and for good reason. It blends Southern hospitality with modern city life, offering job opportunities, great neighborhoods, and plenty of things to do. Whether you're moving for work, school, or a fresh start, here’s what you need to know before packing up and heading to North Carolina’s capital city.

1. Cost of Living in Raleigh, NC

Thinking about moving to Raleigh but concerned about affordability? You're in luck—Raleigh offers a great balance of cost and quality of life. If you're considering buying or building a home, our team at Hoeken Design Build can help you find the perfect fit.

Raleigh is more affordable than many major U.S. cities, but home prices have risen in recent years. Even so, it remains a great place to get more for your money compared to places like New York, San Francisco, or Washington, D.C.

• Housing: With Raleigh's rapid growth, it's no surprise that home values are on the rise. For those looking to build an exceptional custom home, prices typically start at $1 million and above.

• Rent: Expect to pay about $1,575 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

• Utilities & Expenses: Everyday costs like groceries and transportation are close to the national average, and healthcare is actually a bit lower.

Is Raleigh, NC a good place to live?

With a cost of living 2% lower than the national average, Raleigh offers a great balance of affordability and opportunity.

2. The Best Places to Live in Raleigh, NC

Choosing the right neighborhood is key to feeling at home in Raleigh. If you're unsure where to settle, we can help you design a custom home in a community that fits your lifestyle.

Your choice of neighborhood makes all the difference when settling into Raleigh. Here are three of the most popular areas in the city:

North Hills

• A lively, walkable area with high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment.

• Popular among young professionals and families.

• Home prices are on the higher side, but it’s a great investment.

Oakwood

• A historic neighborhood with charming homes and tree-lined streets.

• Close to downtown with parks, coffee shops, and a strong sense of community.

• Perfect for those who appreciate classic architecture and a small-town feel within the city.

Brier Creek

• Conveniently located near the airport and Research Triangle Park.

• A mix of single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses.

• Great for commuters and those looking for modern amenities.

Best Suburbs Near Raleigh, NC

If you're looking for a quieter, suburban lifestyle, check out Cary, Apex, and Wake Forest. These areas have top-rated schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy access to downtown Raleigh.

3. Raleigh’s Booming Job Market

Already secured a job in Raleigh? Now it’s time to find the perfect place to live. Let Hoeken Design Build help you create a home that matches your career and lifestyle needs.

If you’re moving for work, you’ll love Raleigh’s job market. The city is a hub for technology, healthcare, and research, with major employers including:

• Tech: IBM, Cisco, Red Hat

• Healthcare & Research: WakeMed, UNC Health, Duke Health

• Education & Government: NC State University, State of North Carolina

With an unemployment rate below the national average, Raleigh is a solid choice for career growth.

4. Schools & Higher Education

Raleigh has some of the best schools in North Carolina and is home to multiple universities. Here are a few standout institutions:

• North Carolina State University (NC State) – A top research and engineering school.

• Meredith College – A well-regarded women’s liberal arts college.

• Shaw University & St. Augustine’s University – Two historically Black colleges with strong academic programs.

• Nearby: Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill, both about 30-40 minutes away.

5. Things to Do in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh is a city full of adventure, history, and cultural experiences. Whether you enjoy exploring museums, spending time outdoors, or catching a game, you’ll never run out of things to do. The city balances a thriving urban environment with green spaces, making it ideal for both city lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Raleigh has something for everyone, whether you’re into outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or nightlife. Some top spots include:

• North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences – One of the largest natural science museums in the Southeast, featuring interactive exhibits, dinosaur fossils, and live animal displays.

• Pullen Park – A historic park with a carousel, pedal boats, and playgrounds, making it the perfect spot for a family outing.

• William B. Umstead State Park – A massive natural retreat offering hiking and biking trails, fishing lakes, and picnic spots for those looking to escape the city.

• PNC Arena – The go-to spot for sports fans, home to the Carolina Hurricanes NHL team and hosting major concerts and events year-round.

6. Raleigh’s Food & Drink Scene

If you’re a foodie or simply love exploring new dining experiences, Raleigh won’t let you down. The city's steady growth, revitalization of neighborhoods, and transformation of old warehouses into trendy eateries have led to a thriving culinary scene. Whether you're craving classic Southern comfort food or modern global flavors, Raleigh has something for everyone.

While you should definitely try North Carolina barbecue and Lowcountry favorites like biscuits and grits, the city’s food scene goes far beyond Southern staples. Some must-visit spots include:

• Angus Barn – A legendary steakhouse known for its dry-aged beef and one of the largest wine selections in the state.

• The Fiction Kitchen – A vegetarian and vegan hotspot where the flavors are so bold, even meat-lovers rave about it.

• Cortez Seafood & Cocktail – A fresh take on Latin-inspired seafood, featuring ceviche, grilled fish, and craft cocktails.

Raleigh’s craft beer scene is just as impressive, with over 20 breweries offering everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Some favorites include:

• Raleigh Brewing Company – A staple in the local beer scene with a strong community focus.

• Clouds Brewing – Known for its self-serve beer wall and German-style lagers.

• Compass Rose Brewery – A great spot for adventurous craft beer lovers, offering globally inspired brews.

7. Raleigh’s Climate

Raleigh has a mild, four-season climate, making it appealing for those who don’t like extreme weather.

• Winters: Mild, with highs in the 50s°F and minimal snow.

• Summers: Hot and humid, with temperatures in the upper 80s°F.

• Spring & Fall: Pleasant temperatures with beautiful scenery.

8. Raleigh’s Nightlife & Cultural Scene

Raleigh isn’t just a great place to live—it’s a city that comes alive at night. Whether you prefer a laid-back evening at a jazz bar or an energetic night out on the dance floor, there’s something for everyone. The city also has a thriving arts scene, from theater performances to world-class symphonies.

From live music to arts and nightlife, Raleigh has a lot to offer:

• Live Music: Red Hat Amphitheater hosts major touring artists in an outdoor setting, Pour House Music Hall is perfect for discovering local bands, and Koka Booth Amphitheatre offers a scenic venue for concerts under the stars.

• Theater & Arts: The North Carolina Symphony puts on breathtaking performances year-round, the Carolina Ballet showcases incredible talent, and Theatre Raleigh delivers must-see local productions.

• Nightlife: If you're looking for high-energy clubs, Alchemy is known for its dance music and craft cocktails, while Ambis 1 Nightclub is the go-to for Latin beats and vibrant nightlife.

9. Pros & Cons of Living in Raleigh

Every city has its strengths and challenges, and Raleigh is no exception. If you're ready to embrace the pros and work around the cons, Hoeken Design Build can help you create a home that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Pros:

• Affordable cost of living compared to other metro areas.

• Strong job market with opportunities in multiple industries.

• Excellent schools and universities.

• Plenty of outdoor activities and cultural events.

Cons:

• Summers can be hot and humid.

• Traffic congestion is increasing as the city grows.

• Home prices are rising due to high demand.

10. Let Hoeken Design Build Help You Move to Raleigh

Making a move is a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re looking for a modern custom home or a classic Southern-style residence, Hoeken Design Build is here to bring your vision to life

📞 Contact Hoeken Design Build today to start planning your dream home in Raleigh, NC!