Top 3 Places To Live In Raleigh, NC | Moving To Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, North Carolina offers a vibrant array of neighborhoods, each with unique advantages that cater to different lifestyles and preferences. From high-end shopping and dining options to close proximity to parks and greenway spaces, along with excellent schools and family-friendly environments, the city provides exceptional choices for anyone considering making the Triangle area their home. Today I'll share three of the most sought-after places to live in Raleigh, each offering distinct benefits that have made them favorites among residents and newcomers alike.

North Hills: Raleigh's Dynamic Midtown

Often referred to as Raleigh's Midtown, North Hills stands out as a bustling area that perfectly balances residential living with retail, dining, and entertainment options. This neighborhood represents an excellent choice for those who enjoy an urban lifestyle while maintaining easy access to all the amenities that make daily life convenient and enjoyable.

When my family and I relocated here from Southern California nearly seven years ago, food and amenities were incredibly important to us, and North Hills quickly became one of our top destinations for shopping and dining. The area centers around North Hills Mall, an open-air shopping center that features an impressive mix of national retailers, boutique shops, and specialty stores, creating a walkable environment where you can accomplish multiple errands while enjoying the outdoor atmosphere.

The dining scene in North Hills truly sets it apart from other Raleigh neighborhoods. The variety spans from upscale dining establishments to casual eateries, coffee shops, wine bars, and unique brunch spots, plus family-friendly experiences like Flower Power where children can make, bake, and eat delicious treats. One of our first dining experiences in Raleigh was at Cowfish, a restaurant with a unique concept combining sushi and burgers, even creating sushi rolls that incorporate both elements. The birthday celebrations there involve songs and a giant gong, plus an impressive fish aquarium that always captivates children, though I should warn you that the bathroom features unusual talking tracks instead of traditional music.

Other standout dining options include Taco Bell Cantina for fusion Mexican food with tapas-style offerings featuring everything from Baja fish and shrimp to duck quesadillas, accompanied by amazing refreshing beverages both non-alcoholic and spiked. The area also boasts Coco for Asian-inspired cuisine, Vivant for handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, and The Capital Grille for exceptional steaks. For nightlife enthusiasts, trendy bars and lounges provide excellent spaces to unwind, with Level Seven Rooftop Bar offering beautiful views overlooking all of North Hills.

North Hills connects beautifully to several parks and greenway trails, making it perfect for families who value outdoor green spaces. Shelley Lake Park offers a serene 53-acre lake surrounded by walking and biking trails, with a 2-mile loop perfect for jogging or walking while enjoying scenic water and nature views. The park also provides kayaking, paddle boating, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a community center, plus the "Art on the Trail" public art installation that adds an artistic touch to outdoor activities.

The Capital Area Greenway system runs throughout Raleigh with trails connecting to North Hills, offering residents extensive options for outdoor activities. These greenways prove perfect for morning jogs, evening strolls, or weekend bike rides, which have become a family favorite for us.

Families particularly appreciate North Hills for its well-regarded schools and strong sense of community. The area benefits from some of Raleigh's top public, magnet, and private schools, offering strong academic programs, dedicated staff, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The neighborhood's safety and walkability, combined with abundant parks, playgrounds, and recreational facilities, create an environment where families can enjoy urban conveniences while providing children with excellent opportunities for growth and development.

Village District: Historic Charm Meets Modern Convenience

Previously known as Cameron Village, the Village District represents a historic and upscale area renowned for its charming tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and strategic proximity to downtown Raleigh. This neighborhood successfully combines the appeal of older, established communities with all the modern conveniences that today's families expect.

The Village District's location just minutes from downtown Raleigh creates particular appeal for professionals working in the city center. Residents can enjoy all the amenities that downtown offers, from employment opportunities and cultural attractions to dining and nightlife options, without experiencing the constant hustle and bustle of living directly in the urban core. For those preferring not to drive, the area offers public transportation through several bus routes that provide easy access to downtown areas.

The neighborhood features many walk-friendly streets where residents can access shopping, dining, and cultural activities without venturing far from home. The centerpiece Village District Shopping Center has served as a historic shopping destination and community staple for decades, featuring a thoughtful mix of national retailers, local boutiques, and specialty shops that reflect both contemporary needs and local character.

The dining scene in Village District impresses with its wide range of high-quality options. For sushi lovers, Ajisai offers Japanese fusion cuisine with exceptionally fresh flavors that have made it one of our favorite destinations. The Flying Biscuit Cafe provides outstanding breakfast options with their signature biscuits and acai bowls, while Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen and Bar serves delicious chicken and waffles that exemplify Southern comfort food at its finest. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating options, allowing diners to enjoy fresh air while experiencing the neighborhood's welcoming atmosphere.

Cultural activities abound in the Village District through regularly hosted events including art shows, live music performances, and seasonal festivals that bring the community together and create opportunities for neighbors to connect. The nearby Raleigh Little Theater and Pullen Park provide additional entertainment and recreational options that enhance the cultural richness of the area.

The Village District earned recognition for its excellent schools, making it a top choice for families seeking quality education options. The neighborhood benefits from some of Raleigh's best public and private schools, while the beautiful tree-lined streets and well-maintained homes create a welcoming atmosphere that reflects strong community pride and engagement.

The combination of safety, walkability, strong community spirit, excellent educational opportunities, close proximity to downtown, and variety of local amenities makes Village District highly desirable for families, professionals, and retirees who appreciate the balance between historic charm and modern convenience.

Brier Creek: Master-Planned Suburban Excellence

Brier Creek represents a master-planned community located on Raleigh's northwest side near Research Triangle Park, offering a distinctly suburban feel with an impressive range of housing options from apartments to luxury homes. This carefully planned neighborhood appeals to residents seeking comprehensive amenities within a cohesive community environment.

Brier Creek's strategic location near several major highways creates one of its standout features, particularly for daily commuters. Situated at the intersection of I-540 and US Route 70, Brier Creek provides quick and easy access to various Triangle area destinations including downtown Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Interstate 40 lies just a short drive away, while several bus routes serve the area for those preferring public transportation options.

The neighborhood functions as an activity hub, offering residents extensive shopping, dining, and recreational options within their immediate area. Brier Creek Commons shopping center serves as the neighborhood's central commercial area, featuring 800,000 square feet of space with big-name retailers, local boutiques, and essential services. From Target and HomeGoods to charming boutiques, Brier Creek Commons provides comprehensive shopping convenience.

Dining options in Brier Creek reflect impressive diversity, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Standout options include Kobe Japanese House of Steak for teppanyaki and sushi rolls, Carolina Ale House for refreshing beverages and casual dining, Bricks Wood Fired Pizza for artisanal pizzas, and Alpaca for Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken with black beans and plantains.

Recreation opportunities center around the prestigious Brier Creek Country Club, featuring an 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer. The country club offers comprehensive amenities including tennis courts, swimming pool, fitness center, and dining facilities, making it popular among both golfers and non-golfers. The neighborhood also provides several parks, walking trails, and greenway spaces for outdoor enthusiasts.

An exciting development deserves special mention: the recently announced Swing Racket Plus Paddle facility, breaking ground as the first of its kind and largest racket-focused facility in the world. This approximately $125 million project near Brier Creek will feature various courts and a ping-pong lounge with extensive socializing spaces. The campus will spotlight a restaurant led by celebrity chef Fabio Viviani, welcoming both new and seasoned players.

The 44-acre campus will include a walking trail running through the center, connecting to Raleigh's greenway trail system, with over 70 places to play different sports including 28 tennis courts, 25 pickleball courts, 15 paddle courts, and four beach tennis and volleyball courts. This facility is projected for completion in 2026, adding another exceptional amenity to an already well-equipped neighborhood.

Brier Creek's proximity to RDU International Airport and Research Triangle Park creates additional advantages for residents. The airport sits just a short drive away, making travel convenient for both business and leisure purposes. Research Triangle Park, one of the world's largest research parks, houses numerous tech companies, research institutions, and corporations, making Brier Creek ideal for professionals working in technology or related fields.

The neighborhood benefits from several highly-rated schools offering strong academic programs and diverse extracurricular activities. Whether families prefer public or private education options, Brier Creek provides access to top-rated educational institutions that cater to various needs and interests.

Finding Your Perfect Raleigh Neighborhood

These three neighborhoods represent just a sampling of the exceptional living options available throughout Raleigh. From North Hills' urban energy and walkable amenities to Village District's historic charm and downtown proximity, and Brier Creek's master-planned suburban excellence with comprehensive facilities, each area offers distinct advantages that appeal to different lifestyle preferences and family needs.

The common threads connecting all three areas include excellent schools, convenient access to amenities, strong community engagement, and the quality of life that has made Raleigh one of the most desirable places to live in the Southeast. Whether you're drawn to urban convenience, historic character, or planned community living, Raleigh provides options that can accommodate your family's specific priorities and goals.

If you're considering making Raleigh your home and would like to explore these neighborhoods or others throughout the area, I'd be delighted to help you discover which community best aligns with your lifestyle preferences and housing goals. Please feel free to reach out at 919-583-6895 to discuss your specific needs and arrange visits to experience firsthand what makes these neighborhoods so special for the families who call them home.