AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Durham, NC — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Durham neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,550/mo
Median Rent
283,506
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
Duke University
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Durham? What Renters Need to Know

Durham averages $1,550 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Proximity to Duke University in the Duke Forest area commands higher rents around $2,400, while more affordable options exist in Southwest Central and Burch Avenue neighborhoods.

Quick Facts

Population 283,506
Median Rent $1,550/mo
Top Employer Duke University
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,550 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Durham median rent is $50 above the national median of $1,500/mo.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Durham is Duke University, making the Downtown Durham area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Durham

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Downtown Durham

Score: 85/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 80
Avg Rent $2,000
Schools 6/10
#2

Trinity Park

Score: 88/100
Safety A-
Walk Score 72
Avg Rent $1,900
Schools 7/10
#3

Old North Durham

Score: 82/100
Safety B
Walk Score 68
Avg Rent $1,700
Schools 6/10

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#4

Northgate Park

Score: 80/100
Safety B
Walk Score 62
Avg Rent $1,600
Schools 6/10
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#5

Duke Forest

Score: 91/100
Safety A
Walk Score 45
Avg Rent $2,400
Schools 9/10
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#6

Burch Avenue

Score: 76/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 58
Avg Rent $1,450
Schools 5/10
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#7

Golden Belt

Score: 79/100
Safety B
Walk Score 72
Avg Rent $1,650
Schools 5/10
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#8

Southwest Central

Score: 68/100
Safety C+
Walk Score 50
Avg Rent $1,200
Schools 4/10
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See All 8 Durham Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Durham Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Durham renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Durham.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Durham properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Durham

What is the average rent in Durham?

Durham averages $1,550 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. Proximity to Duke University in the Duke Forest area commands higher rents around $2,400, while more affordable options exist in Southwest Central and Burch Avenue neighborhoods.

How does Durham compare to Chapel Hill and Raleigh?

Durham is generally more affordable than Chapel Hill and comparable to Raleigh, while offering its own unique character through the Research Triangle Park biotech sector and a thriving food and arts scene. Durham has seen rapid revitalization in its downtown and historic tobacco warehouse districts.

What are the best neighborhoods in Durham?

Duke Forest offers the highest safety ratings and school scores but at premium prices tied to university proximity. Trinity Park is a popular neighborhood with historic homes and walkable access to Duke. Downtown Durham has undergone significant revitalization and attracts young professionals.

Is Durham safe?

Durham's safety profile varies significantly by neighborhood. Areas near Duke University, Trinity Park, and the revitalized downtown core have B+ to A safety grades. Some historic neighborhoods require more research, and the city as a whole has worked to reduce crime through community policing initiatives.

What is the job market like in Durham?

Durham is anchored by Duke University and Duke Health, one of the nation's top academic medical centers. Research Triangle Park, located partly in Durham, hosts hundreds of biotech, pharmaceutical, and tech companies. IBM, Lenovo, and GlaxoSmithKline are among the major regional employers.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.