Preston - Cary, NC Area Guide

This comfortable town exists within the larger town of Cary, and is one of the largest neighborhoods in Wake County. The town of Cary developed in the late 19th century, and in its early years, sought to maximize comfort, control population growth and proactively plan both commercial and industrial development.

In 1992, the Statistical Analysis System Institute decided to establish the neighborhood of Preston following the debut of the Prestonwood Country Club. Over the past three decades, the course has grown to 54 holes of golf, an expansion the surrounding neighborhood reflects as well. Within Preston, 33 distinct neighborhoods have emerged.

Each fall, Preston hosts the SAS Championship, a prestigious golf tournament on the PGA Champions Tour. The event not only serves to showcase Preston's desire to create a community-driven environment, but also to contribute millions of dollars to local charities focused on education and youth.

Within and just outside of Preston, residents discover a variety of cafés and restaurants to satisfy both taste and budget. Whether you're looking for a cafe for breakfast, a quick bite for lunch or a fancier spot for date night, the neighborhood's eating and drinking options ensure you won't be disappointed.

Coffee lovers rejoice at Crema Coffee and Bakery on High House Road. This family owned and operated espresso bar and bakery combines artisan ingredients with a meticulous brewing process to create its noteworthy hot and cold beverages. Drop by any day of the week and enjoy a cup of joe, a handcrafted bakery treat and a smile from the friendly baristas.

Pepper's, self- proclaimed as "not just a regular sandwich joint," sits on Grace Park Drive and serves freshly sliced meats, locally baked breads and house-made soups to satisfy your lunchtime cravings. All meats and salads can also be purchased by the pound, so you can have Pepper's at home at any time.

Within the neighborhood there are a few pubs, but if you're looking for more excitement, head east to Raleigh and visit one of the many clubs, bars and lounges conducive to a night out on the town.

Residents of Preston have direct access to I-40 W, making a commute to downtown Raleigh quick and convenient. The majority of commuters navigate by car, and typically arrive in the city within 25 minutes. Once there, you can easily park your car at one of the many available street spaces, or within the public lots or garages at little to no cost.

Within the city, cabs are readily available, but if you have a smartphone, the Uber application serves as an affordable, reliable alternative to obtain a taxi or private car.

Numerous bike lanes and bike-friendly roads appeal to cyclists and even allow safe navigation all the way to Raleigh.

Prestonwood Country Club stands as the neighborhood's most recognizable hub for both outdoor and indoor recreation. Including 54 holes of golf, nine tennis courts, fitness and aquatics centers and children camps and programs, the club attracts members and visitor from within and nearby the Preston Community, but also from around the country.

Fred G. Bond Metro Park is self-described as "an oasis in the midst of the city" and features multiple athletic fields, 4.2 miles of trails, picnic shelters, playgrounds and even a man-made freshwater lake within its 310 acres. This kid and pet-friendly park is one of the largest in Wake County and preserves the areas natural beauty while providing outdoor recreation all year round.

Cost of living in Preston is 18 percent above the North Carolina average and 14.2 percent above the national average. This is due to its lush environment of comfortable homes, high-quality schools and an array of businesses and restaurants.

If you're looking to rent a home, you can expect a one bedroom to run around $935 per month. Although basic goods and services typically cost more, within the neighborhood, the cost of a gallon of gas mirrors that of the national average. At a local pub, a beer generally costs around $7.

Residents of Preston head to nearby Cary to enjoy shopping at an array of both chain retail centers as well as locally owned boutiques. Cary Towne Center serves the town as a central hub for shopping with 130 stores, including five anchor department stores as well as notable staples such as Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body Works. With numerous dining and entertainment options such as Xtreme Jump Bungee Trampoline and Dave and Busters, you'll find it easy to spend an entire day at Cary Towne Center.

Continue your local support by doing your weekly grocery shopping at the Western Wake Farmers' Market on Morrisville Carpenter Road. Open on Saturdays year-round, the market hosts local vendors who sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to all-natural baked goods, and even locally crafted beer. For more traditional grocery options, residents visit Fresh Market for organic, high-quality products. For more affordable choices check out the neighborhood Kroger or Food Lion.