Salary And Cost Of Living In Durham NC

Located in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, Durham, NC has become one of the state’s fastest‑growing cities. Its blend of research universities, health care systems, and technology companies has created a dynamic local economy that attracts professionals, students, and families alike. Understanding the average salary and cost of living in Durham, North Carolina is essential for anyone considering relocating, changing jobs, or investing in the local housing market.

In the sections below, we will walk through the average salary in Durham, NC, the overall cost of living in Durham, local housing prices and rents, the best neighborhoods in Durham, and the quality of schools in the area. This detailed overview is designed to help you make an informed decision about living and working in Durham, NC, while also serving as a local guide to the city’s economic landscape.

Average Salary In Durham NC

The job market in Durham, North Carolina is heavily influenced by major employers such as Duke University, Duke Health, and numerous tech and biotech firms in the Research Triangle Park. As a result, salaries in some industries, especially health care, technology, and higher education, tend to be competitive compared to many other mid‑sized Southern cities.

Although individual compensation varies based on experience and occupation, many residents find that local wages align reasonably well with the cost of living. The following table provides an illustrative snapshot of representative annual salaries in Durham, NC for common roles across different sectors.

Occupation (Durham, NC)	Estimated Average Annual Salary
Registered Nurse (Hospital/Health System)	$70,000 – $90,000
Software Engineer (Tech / RTP)	$95,000 – $125,000
Research Scientist (Biotech / Pharma)	$85,000 – $115,000
University Faculty (Assistant Professor)	$75,000 – $100,000
Public School Teacher	$45,000 – $60,000
Administrative / Office Professional	$40,000 – $55,000
Customer Service / Retail	$30,000 – $40,000

As this chart illustrates, Durham’s salary landscape is particularly strong in specialized fields tied to research, medicine, and technology. At the same time, service and support roles typically pay moderate wages, making it important to evaluate costs for housing, transportation, and other daily expenses when considering a move to Durham, NC.

Cost Of Living In Durham NC

The cost of living in Durham, NC is generally considered moderate when compared to large coastal cities, while still slightly higher than some smaller North Carolina towns. Housing and transportation tend to be the most significant monthly expenses, whereas groceries and health care remain relatively in line with national averages.

To help visualize how expenses in Durham, North Carolina compare to a typical U.S. city indexed at 100, consider the following example cost of living index chart.

Cost Category	Durham, NC Index	U.S. Average Index
Overall Cost Of Living	101	100
Housing	105	100
Groceries	99	100
Utilities	98	100
Transportation	102	100
Health Care	100	100

These index values suggest that living in Durham, NC is close to the national average overall, with housing costs running slightly higher than average due to strong demand. Nonetheless, when paired with competitive salaries in many professional sectors, Durham remains an attractive option for individuals seeking a balance between income potential and day‑to‑day affordability.

Average Home Values And Rents In Durham NC

Housing is often the largest factor when evaluating the cost of living in Durham, North Carolina. Over the past decade, Durham has experienced notable growth, which has driven up average home values in Durham, NC as well as typical rental rates. Even so, many residents still view Durham housing as more attainable than in many major metro areas along the East and West Coasts.

The following table provides illustrative figures for home prices and rents in Durham, NC, offering a general sense of what buyers and renters can expect.

Housing Type (Durham, NC)	Estimated Price / Monthly Rent
Median Single‑Family Home Value	$400,000 – $450,000
Townhome / Condo (2–3 Bedrooms)	$300,000 – $375,000
One‑Bedroom Apartment (Rent)	$1,300 – $1,600 per month
Two‑Bedroom Apartment (Rent)	$1,600 – $2,000 per month
Single‑Family Home (3–4 Bedrooms, Rent)	$2,000 – $2,800 per month

Home buyers in Durham, NC can find a range of options, from historic properties near downtown to newer subdivisions in outlying areas. Similarly, renters can explore modern apartment communities, student‑friendly housing closer to Duke University, or more suburban rental homes. As the market evolves, it is wise to consult a local real estate professional for up‑to‑date pricing when planning a move to Durham.

Best Neighborhoods In Durham NC

Choosing where to live within the city is just as important as understanding salary and cost of living. Durham, North Carolina neighborhoods each offer distinct character, amenities, and price points. From walkable urban districts to tranquil suburban enclaves, there is something for nearly every lifestyle.

The chart below highlights several popular neighborhoods in Durham, NC and some of their key features.

Neighborhood (Durham, NC)	General Vibe	Notable Features	Typical Housing Costs
Downtown Durham	Urban, walkable, lively	Restaurants, arts scene, renovated warehouses, easy access to offices	Condos and apartments; rents and prices on the higher side for the city
Trinity Park	Historic, tree‑lined, close to Duke	Charming older homes, walkability to Duke East Campus and Ninth Street	Premium single‑family homes; higher purchase prices, moderate‑to‑high rents
Woodcroft / South Durham	Suburban, family‑friendly	Greenways, community pools, easy access to I‑40 and RTP	Mix of townhomes and single‑family homes; mid‑range prices and rents
North Durham	Quieter, more spacious	Larger lots, more rural feel in some areas, access to parks and lakes	Often more affordable; good value for larger homes
Hope Valley / Southwest Durham	Established, upscale	Country club community, mature trees, convenient to both Durham and Chapel Hill	Higher‑end homes and rentals; above city median

When exploring the best neighborhoods in Durham, NC, consider not only housing costs but also commute times, school zones, and access to dining, parks, and entertainment. Many newcomers appreciate that Durham combines urban amenities with suburban comfort, giving residents a range of choices at different price points.

Schools And Education In Durham NC

Education plays a central role in the identity of Durham, North Carolina. Duke University and North Carolina Central University anchor the city’s higher education landscape, while Durham Public Schools and a variety of charter, magnet, and private schools serve families with children.

The school system offers specialized programs in science, technology, engineering, and the arts, reflecting Durham’s research‑oriented economy. Many families look closely at school performance, magnet offerings, and extracurricular opportunities when deciding where to live within Durham, NC.

Education Option (Durham, NC)	Type	Key Highlights
Durham Public Schools	Public K–12	Neighborhood schools, magnet programs in STEM and arts, diverse student body
Charter And Magnet Schools	Public Choice	Specialized curricula, lottery‑based admission, focus on innovation and college readiness
Private And Parochial Schools	Independent	Smaller class sizes, faith‑based options, varied tuition levels
Duke University	Higher Education	Top‑ranked university, major employer, research hub, extensive medical center
North Carolina Central University	Higher Education	Historically Black university, strong programs in law, business, and the sciences

Families moving to Durham, NC often work closely with real estate agents and school district resources to identify the best school zones for their needs. Because school assignments and program availability can change, it is important to verify current boundaries and options when planning a relocation.

Living And Working In Durham NC

When you bring together the average salary in Durham, NC, the city’s moderate cost of living, and a thriving housing market, a clear picture emerges: Durham offers a compelling mix of opportunity and livability. Professionals benefit from strong employment prospects in health care, higher education, and technology, while families appreciate the variety of neighborhoods and educational pathways.

Although housing costs have risen with demand, many residents still find that their incomes stretch further in Durham than in many larger metropolitan regions. In addition, the city’s growing restaurant scene, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation options enhance overall quality of life.

In summary, Durham, North Carolina provides a balanced environment where salaries, housing, and amenities align to create a desirable place to live, work, and study. Whether you are evaluating a job offer, considering a home purchase, or simply researching the area, understanding the salary trends and cost of living in Durham, NC will help you make confident, informed decisions about your future in this vibrant Triangle city.