How these markets compare for investors
Both cities sit in a similar price range ($390,000 vs. $370,000), so the investment decision comes down to yield, growth, and local market dynamics rather than affordability.
Yields are comparable between the two cities (5.4% vs. 5.5%). The investment decision rests more on price appreciation potential, vacancy risk, and your personal strategy than on headline yield.
Population growth is similar across both cities (2.1% vs. 1.9%), so neither has a clear structural demand advantage over the other.
Vacancy rates are similar across both markets (4.8% vs. 4.7%), suggesting comparable demand conditions. In both markets, investors should watch local rental supply pipelines and new-build completions as a leading indicator of future vacancy pressure.
Market profiles
Median home price
$390,000
Median monthly rent
$1,750/mo
Gross rental yield
5.4%
Raleigh has lower yields but strong population growth — suited to investors betting on long-term price appreciation.
Median home price
$370,000
Median monthly rent
$1,700/mo
Gross rental yield
5.5%
Durham has lower yields but strong population growth — suited to investors betting on long-term price appreciation.
Property prices by size
Raleigh
Durham✓
Raleigh
Durham✓
Raleigh
Durham✓
Estimated values based on median price per m² and median rent per m². Individual properties will vary.
Price and rent trends (5 years)
Price growth is similar across both cities (+25.8% in Raleigh, +25.4% in Durham over 5 years). Rent growth trends may be a better forward indicator for yield trajectory.
What does your capital actually generate?
Investment budget: $300,000
Both cities deliver similar rental income for the same investment amount. Other factors — appreciation potential, market stability, and local expenses — become more decisive.
Which investor type benefits most?
First-time & risk-averse
Recommended: Durham
Durham has a lower entry price ($370,000 vs. $390,000) — less capital at risk and a lower barrier to get started.
Cash flow investor
Recommended: Equal
Yields are nearly identical (5.4% vs. 5.5%). Operating expenses and vacancy will drive actual cash flow more than the headline market yield.
Appreciation investor
Recommended: Equal
Similar population growth in both cities (2.1% vs. 1.9%). Price and rent history trends may give better signals on appreciation direction.
Portfolio builder
Recommended: Durham
With $1,500,000, you could acquire ~4 properties in Durham vs. ~3 in Raleigh. Your capital stretches further in Durham.
Calculate your return in each city
Adjust the numbers to match your specific properties.
ARaleigh
Inputs
Total acquisition cost before taxes
HOA, insurance, property management
% of time the property is empty
% of purchase price (e.g. 2% = 2)
Rule of thumb: 1% of purchase price/yr
Results
Gross yield
5.38%
Net yield
3.51%
Cap rate
3.51%
Monthly cash flow
$1,141.00
Annual cash flow
$13,692.00
BDurham
Inputs
Total acquisition cost before taxes
HOA, insurance, property management
% of time the property is empty
% of purchase price (e.g. 2% = 2)
Rule of thumb: 1% of purchase price/yr
Results
Gross yield
5.51%
Net yield
3.61%
Cap rate
3.61%
Monthly cash flow
$1,111.77
Annual cash flow
$13,341.20
Common questions: Raleigh vs Durham
Is Raleigh or Durham better for property investment?
Durham offers a higher gross yield (5.5% vs. 5.4% in Raleigh), making it more attractive for cash flow focused investors. For appreciation-focused strategies, population growth and price trends matter more than headline yield.
Which has higher rental yields — Raleigh or Durham?
Durham has a higher gross rental yield at 5.5% versus 5.4% in Raleigh. Note that net yield will vary depending on operating expenses, vacancy periods, and applicable taxes in each market.
Should I invest in Raleigh or Durham as a beginner?
For beginners, Durham tends to be more accessible with a median price of $370,000 compared to $390,000 in Raleigh. A lower entry price reduces initial capital requirements and limits downside risk while you learn the market.
What are the main risks of investing in Raleigh versus Durham?
Both markets carry specific risks. In Raleigh, investors should pay particular attention to vacancy trends and supply pipeline. In general, diversification, local due diligence, and maintaining a financial buffer for void periods and repairs are essential in any market.
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Data sources: All data sourced from official statistics bureaus and is provided for informational purposes only. Nothing on this page constitutes investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making investment decisions. Zillow Research / U.S. Census Bureau