Why is Everyone Moving To Clayton NC? This Raleigh Gem Might Be Your Perfect New Home
If you've been watching the Raleigh real estate market lately, you've probably noticed what I've been seeing with my clients for years now - Clayton is HOT! This charming town southeast of Raleigh has seen its population surge nearly 30% over the last decade to more than 32,000 residents, and I'm getting more questions about it every week.
My Clayton Experience
I've got to be honest - I'm a little biased about Clayton because my family and I moved here from Southern California about 7 years ago. We wanted that rural charm with space to breathe, and we found it! We bought a home on nearly an acre, just 10 minutes from downtown Clayton and 30 minutes from Raleigh. Coming from California traffic, that commute felt like nothing to us!
Affordability You Won't Believe
The biggest reason people are flocking to Clayton? Affordability! As of early 2025, the median home price in Clayton is around $370,350, compared to Raleigh at $455,580 and Cary/Apex/Holly Springs hovering around $619,000! I've had clients save up to $200,000 by choosing Clayton over western suburbs - that's serious money back in your pocket!
Communities Worth Checking Out
Clayton has some fantastic neighborhoods at every price point. Flowers Plantation offers homes from $334,000 to $850,000 with amazing amenities. Buckhorn Branch and Wilson Walk have homes in the $300,000-$400,000 range with family-friendly features. For luxury buyers, Portofino starts at $675,000 with an equestrian center and river access. And for my 55+ clients, Carolina Overlook by Del Webb and The Walk at East Village offer resort-style living starting in the mid-$300,000s.
Exciting Developments Coming Soon
The Waterfront District at Flowers Plantation will bring apartments, restaurants, retail, and a waterfront hotel, while the Copper District near I-40 promises to be three times the size of Fenton Shops in Cary! These developments will make Clayton even more appealing in the coming years.
Lifestyle and Downtown Charm
Clayton offers fantastic outdoor spaces like Municipal Park with its splash pad (my kids' favorite summer spot!) and the Clayton Riverwalk connecting to over 65 miles of scenic trails. Downtown has some amazing restaurants like Manning's (try the shrimp and grits!), Clayton Steakhouse, and Revival 1869 for craft cocktails - that's my go-to spot for girls' night!
The Honest Truth
I'm always straight with my clients, so here's the real deal: Clayton is more spread out than it looks on a map. Shopping options are somewhat limited - we typically head to Garner for major retailers. The commute to Research Triangle Park can take 45-60 minutes during rush hour, though improvements to I-540 and I-40 will help soon.
Clayton schools earned an A-minus rating from Niche.com, ranking second for best public schools in Johnston County. For healthcare, we have excellent options with UNC Health Johnston and Duke Health Center right in town.
What's really exciting is Johnston County's job growth! Companies like Crystal Windows and Novo Nordisk are investing billions and bringing thousands of high-paying jobs to the area. Johnston County has transformed from a rural area to a booming economic destination.
Is Clayton Right for You?
Whether you're looking for an affordable starter home, a family home with great amenities, or a luxury property with acreage, Clayton has options for every lifestyle.
If you're considering relocating to Clayton or anywhere in the Raleigh area, I'd love to help you find your perfect home. Just reach out to me at 919-583-6895!
Till next time!
