Moving To Raleigh NC in 2025? I’d Move Here.
Is finding the perfect neighborhood in Raleigh still possible in 2025? With so many people moving here, it can feel like all the good spots are taken. But what if I told you there are some hidden gems that most people totally overlook - neighborhoods that are walkable, with wooded lots, great restaurants, and everything that you might want?
Keep reading if you want to know more about the top 5 places that I’d move to If I was moving to Raleigh this year. If you’d like to start your search reach out !
Email : alley . buscemi @ compass. com
North Raleigh - The Wooded Retreat
Starting with one of my favorites - if you want that secluded, wooded lifestyle but still need reasonable access to everything, North Raleigh is where you want to look.
Where it is and what makes it special: North Raleigh stretches from I-540 all the way up to the county line, and it's really defined by its environmental protections and larger lot requirements. We're talking about areas like Wood Valley, Falls River, and Avalaire, Ethans Glen - neighborhoods that feel like you're living in a nature preserve. What makes this area special is the Urban Watershed Protection zoning overlay mandates large lot sizes. that keeps it heavily wooded and protects the drinking water, so you get that true retreat feeling just 25 minutes from downtown.
Who it's perfect for: This is ideal for families who want space, privacy, and top-tier schools, plus anyone who loves outdoor recreation. If you're the type who wants to wake up to birds chirping instead of traffic, this is your spot.
What’s the vibe like: Properties in this area have that secluded feel, with space between neighbors, and canopy coverage that keeps homes cooler in summer.
What's close by: If you’re a lover of watersports, you’re going to love having direct access to Falls Lake for boating, fishing, and water recreation. Falls Lake State Recreation Area at Beaverdam Access is also nearby, as well as multiple boat launches, making this the perfect spot for year-round fishing and swimming opportunities.
What are the Amenities like: In this area, neighborhood pools and playgrounds are integrated into developments, with most communities having their own amenity centers. Overall the atmosphere is family-friendly, and there are many different walking trails that connect different sections.
What are Home Prices like: Prices range from around $915K median to over $4 million, with entry-level homes starting in the mid-500s. Luxury properties on larger lots start at 1.25M. There is strong appreciation potential here due to limited land availability.
What are Schools like: This area is the #2 best-rated district in the Raleigh area with many school options such as Ravenscroft, Quest
Academy, and White Oak Elementary School. The public schools consistently rank in the top percentiles, and there are several private school options as well.
The drawback: If you're someone who wants to walk to restaurants and nightlife, this isn't your area. You'll be driving everywhere, and the commute can add up. But if you prioritize space, privacy, and nature access, the trade-off is totally worth it.
Inside The Belt Line - Historic Walkable Living
If North Raleigh is about space and privacy, Inside the Belt Line is the complete opposite - and that's exactly why people love it.
Where it is and what makes it special: These are the neighborhoods inside I-440 - think Oakwood, Five Points, Mordecai, and Hayes Barton. What makes this area special is that you're getting authentic historic architecture in walkable neighborhoods just 2 miles from downtown. This is some of Raleigh's most prestigious and expensive real estate, and there's a fascinating reason why - there's literally no more land to build on, so what exists is what you get.
Who it's perfect for: This is ideal for professionals, empty nesters, or anyone who wants to walk to coffee shops and restaurants. If you love historic character and want that urban village feel, these neighborhoods deliver.
What’s the vibe like: Oakwood has preserved Victorian architecture dating to the 1890s. Styles include Victorian, Queen Anne, Second Empire, Classical Revival, and Craftsman homes. Five Points is made up of five smaller neighborhoods and brings that classic neighborhood feel. Mordecai combines history with modern convenience. Think Colonial Revival mansions, Craftsman bungalows, etc.
What are Home Prices like: The entry point in this area is around $600,000 for modest properties. Properties range from around $900,000 median to over $2 million for restored Victorian mansions. The investment potential remains strong due to limited inventory.
What’s Close by: Only 2 miles from downtown, this area comes with access to museums and NC State University. There are also tons of local eateries nearby and coffee shops are practically on every corner.
The drawback: Now again there is always a trade off. If you need a big yard for kids or want modern construction, this area might not be the best. Lots are small, parking can be challenging, and you'll pay a premium for the location and character. But if walkability and historic charm are your priorities, nowhere else in Raleigh compares.
Midtown - The Luxury Hub
Now, if you want luxury and convenience in one package, Midtown is the best of both worlds with luxury amenities and urban convenience. Right now Midtown is experiencing a transformation that's honestly mind-blowing.
Where it is and what makes it special: Midtown is centered around the North Hills District, and it's literally being rebuilt as Raleigh's answer to a luxury urban village. What makes it special is the concentration of high-end amenities within walking distance - we're talking resort-style fitness, premium shopping, and dining all in one area. It's like someone took the best parts of a major city and condensed them into a few blocks.
Who it's perfect for: This is ideal for professionals who want luxury without the downtown hustle, families who want convenience and amenities, and anyone who appreciates having everything at their fingertips. If you want to have all the pros of urban AND suburban living, this is your spot.
What’s the vibe like: This area is the place for luxury and amenities. There’s a 60,000 sq ft fitness center, 14-screen cinema, and upscale bowling. Plus Life Time Fitness is planning a new mega gym with resort-style fitness and residences! This area has a mix of ultra-luxury new builds and renovated 1970s properties.
What are Home Prices like: The price range in this area can accommodate many different budgets, ranging from $600,000 to $4 million. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury, check out The Eastern, a 36-story luxury tower that is setting a new standard for urban living. It’s the tallest residential building in Raleigh with panoramic views from the upper floors that are absolutely amazing!
What’s close by: More than 130 shops and restaurants are at your fingertips with easy access to I-440, RTP, and Downtown Raleigh. Being in a central location like this means reduced commute times too!
What’s coming soon: Major expansions are coming to this area soon including the Exchange Raleigh project through 2027. From an increase in mixed-use development adding retail and residential, to overall infrastructure improvements throughout the area, property values in this area are expected to climb. The growth happening in Midtown right now is insane. It's a very up-and-coming area to be in.
The drawback: If you're on a tight budget or want a quiet neighborhood feel, Midtown might not be for you. The luxury comes with a price tag, and the area can feel busy with all the development happening. But if you want to be in the heart of everything, it's worth every penny.
Downtown - Urban Energy
Where it is and what makes it special: We're talking about the heart of Raleigh - the central business district and Glenwood South entertainment area. What makes Downtown special right now is this amenity race happening between the high-rise buildings. Each new tower is trying to outdo the last one with increasingly ridiculous luxury features.
Who it's perfect for: This is perfect for young professionals, empty nesters, or anyone who wants a car-optional lifestyle. If you want to walk to work, restaurants, and entertainment, and you love the energy of city living, Downtown delivers that urban vibe.
What’s the vibe like: 400H, 511 Faye, Mira, and Maeve offer true resort-style amenities like rooftop pools with skyline views, valet parking, and concierge services. Many of these options also include rooftop lounges, private dining rooms and golf simulators, etc.
What’s close by: This area is walking distance to the Glenwood South entertainment district, meaning Nightlife and restaurants are literally at your doorstep. New restaurant concepts are opening regularly in Downtown Raleigh. Plus there’s live music venues, art galleries, and boutique shopping too! A car-optional lifestyle is fully possible living here with good walkability, bike/scooter share, and public transit.
How are the Home prices: Homes in this area are in high demand and Market competition is heating up rapidly. Properties range from around $480K median condos to $2+ million penthouses. The luxury penthouses in this area feature private terraces and city views like we've never seen. If you’re looking to invest, the opportunity here is strong, even as the skyline expands.
The drawback: If you want space, quiet, or affordable housing, Downtown isn't for you. You're paying a premium for location and amenities, and you're trading space for convenience. But if you want that true urban lifestyle, this is the only place in Raleigh that delivers it.
North Ridge - Country Club Sophistication
Where it is and what makes it special: North Ridge is centered around North Ridge Country Club in North Raleigh, and it's really defined by the two championship golf courses that anchor the community. What makes this area special is the member-owned country club model - this isn't just a golf course, it's a complete lifestyle with multiple restaurants, tennis courts, and social events year-round. Transplant friendly.
Who it's perfect for: This is ideal for successful professionals, retirees, or anyone who wants the full country club experience. If you love golf, entertaining, and want to be part of an exclusive community, North Ridge delivers that traditional luxury lifestyle.
What’s the vibe like: The country club has two 18-hole courses (The Lakes and The Oaks), making this the perfect place to play championship-level golf year-round. Professional instruction is also available. Beyond the golf courses, there are also 11 tennis courts, a 70,000 sq ft clubhouse, and four on-site restaurants. With social events hosted throughout the year,
What's Close by: commuting in this area is fairly easy with easy highway access. It’s 10 miles from here to downtown, or 17 miles to RDU Airport. The North Ridge Shopping Center nearby has a Chipotle, fitness studio, and pet hospital.
What Home Prices are like: Homes here range from about $1.35 M median to $5+ million. If you’re looking for something on the lower end, looking at the older homes could provide a better entry point. From houses that were constructed in the 1970s-1990s to new luxury builds, the variety of architectural styles in this area are vast.
The drawback: This is an expensive area, and if you're not into golf or the country club scene, you're paying for amenities you won't use. Plus, it can feel a bit insular if you prefer more diverse, urban experiences. But if country club living is your dream, nothing else in Raleigh comes close.
So which neighborhood is right for YOU?
Let me break it down…
Young professionals?
Downtown or Glenwood South for walkability and nightlife.
Growing families?
North Raleigh or North Ridge for space and top-rated schools.
Empty nesters?
Inside the Belt Line or Midtown for walkability and culture.
Luxury buyers?
There's options in all of these areas, just depends if you like the woods or the city, or something in between.. Each of these neighborhoods brings something unique to the table. And honestly, there's no wrong choice here. It all comes down to matching your lifestyle with the right location.
So now that you know exactly which Raleigh neighborhood matches your lifestyle, let's make it happen! If you are considering making a move here in Raleigh go ahead and reach out to me (HOW?)
