Looking for a place that blends innovation, culture, and laid-back Southern nights? Welcome to Durham, an underrated North Carolina gem! Known for its thriving food scene, historic roots, and proximity to major research hubs, this North Carolina city offers a little something for everyone. Whether you want to be close to its most vibrant hubs or just want to live in a suburban oasis that’s not too far from the action, there’s definitely something for every renter in this city.
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Durham, there are plenty of neighborhoods to choose from. We’ve compiled a list of the best places to rent in Durham based on the following factors:
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Rental availability
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Average rent relative to other neighborhoods in the city
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Proximity to points of interest like work hubs, universities, downtown areas, shopping centers, or major parks
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Niche.com’s neighborhood report cards
The five best neighborhoods in Durham for renters are:
Downtown Durham
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Durham: $1,390/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Downtown Durham: $1,456/month
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 711 square feet
Why Downtown Durham is good for renters
Why stay away from all the action? Downtown Durham is the city’s energetic core, packed with restaurants, breweries, and entertainment options. You’ll find everything from historic tobacco warehouses turned shopping hubs to live performances at the Carolina Theatre. The neighborhood is highly walkable, making it easy to explore local favorites without needing a car. With a mix of affordable and upscale apartments, renters have plenty of choices.
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Moderately Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
70Downtown Durham has a walkability score of 70 out of 100. |
50Downtown Durham has a transit score of 50 out of 100. |
90Downtown Durham has a drivability of 90 out of 100. |
50Downtown Durham has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
As with most Downtown areas in major cities, this neighborhood is lively. With all the action comes noise and busier streets, especially during events and weekends.
Central Park
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Durham: $1,390/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Central Park: $1,815/month
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 698 square feet
Why Central Park is good for renters
Central Park is one of Durham’s most creative and lively neighborhoods, known for its arts scene and walkable streets. From food trucks and farmers markets to music venues in repurposed buildings, there’s always something happening. Its proximity to downtown means even more dining, shopping, and entertainment options are just minutes away. If you’re considering renting in Central Park, you may be convinced to stay thanks to the many offerings in the Durham Food Hall and the events at the Carolina Theatre.
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Moderately Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
60Central Park has a walkability score of 60 out of 100. |
50Central Park has a transit score of 50 out of 100. |
100Central Park has a drivability score of 100 out of 100. |
50Central Park has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
Since this area is near Downtown, it is often considered the best of both worlds for many renters. That results in higher demand in this prime location, reflected in rents above the city average.
Campus Hills
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Durham: $1,390/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Campus Hills: $1,073/month
Why Campus Hills is good for renters
Renters who want a quieter neighborhood with access to green space will appreciate the balance Campus Hills has to offer. Campus Hills offers a serene, scenic setting with wooded landscapes and rolling hills just minutes from two major college campuses. Its location near North Carolina Central University and Durham Tech adds convenience, while access to the Durham Freeway makes commuting across the region simple. Outdoor amenities like Elmira Avenue Park and Campus Hills Park provide trails, sports courts, and picnic areas for easy recreation.
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Somewhat Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Somewhat Bikeable |
30Campus Hills has a walkability score of 30 out of 100. |
30Campus Hills has a transit score of 30 out of 100. |
90Campus Hills has a driveability score of 90 out of 100. |
30Campus Hills has a bikeability score of 30 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
This neighborhood is less walkable and more residential, so a car is typically needed for errands and commuting.
American Tobacco
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Durham: $1,390/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in American Tobacco: $1,483/month
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 719 square feet
Why American Tobacco is good for renters
The American Tobacco neighborhood in Durham is where it all began. This historic district is where Durham’s past meets its modern-day energy. Converted warehouses now house trendy loft apartments alongside restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. With attractions like the Durham Performing Arts Center and the Durham Bulls stadium nearby, there’s always something to do. The walkable layout and vibrant atmosphere make it easy to enjoy a live-work-play lifestyle.
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Moderately Walkable |
Good Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
60American Tobacco has a walkability score of 60 out of 100. |
70American Tobacco has a transit score of 70 out of 100. |
90American Tobacco has a transit score of 90 out of 100. |
50American Tobacco has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
Being in an entertainment hub means higher foot traffic and occasional crowds, especially during events. Parking may be an issue during events or weekends.
Hope Valley
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Durham: $1,390/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Hope Valley: $1,184/month
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 730 square feet
Why Hope Valley is good for renters
Hope Valley offers a peaceful, suburban feel with a mix of architectural styles and plenty of green space. Known for its historic homes and country club setting, this neighborhood provides a slower pace while still being close to major destinations like downtown Durham and nearby employment hubs. Outdoor lovers will appreciate nearby parks and trails, while commuters benefit from easy highway access. It’s a great option for renters seeking more space and tranquility.
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Somewhat Walkable |
Very Drivable |
Somewhat Bikeable |
30Hope Valley has a walkability score of 30 out of 100. |
80Hope Valley has a drivability score of 80 out of 100. |
30Hope Valley has a bikeability score of 30 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
This area is less walkable than downtown neighborhoods, so having a car is important for daily errands.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Durham has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set roots, Apartments.com has the tools to help you find the perfect place. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine and use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan. Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, the options are plenty with Apartments.com.
Apartment rent and cost of living data provided by CoStar Group’s April 2026 reports.
FAQs
Is Durham a good place to live?
Yes! Durham is a good choice for renters who want a mix of culture, convenience, and outdoor access. With a strong food scene, local events, and proximity to major universities and research centers, the city offers a well-rounded lifestyle.
Is Durham an expensive place to live?
Durham is generally more affordable than many major U.S. cities. Rent prices and overall cost of living tend to come below national averages, making it a budget-friendly option compared to larger metros.
What’s the average rent in Durham?
The average rent in Durham is $1,390/month, as of April 2026. This is around 15% below the national average rent of $1,625/month.
What salary do you need to live in Durham?
According to our cost of living data, a comfortable salary for a single adult to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Durham would be around $76,000 before tax.
