Apex, North Carolina, is known as the “Peak of Good Living”—a charming suburb of Raleigh that consistently ranks among the best places to live in the U.S. With a strong community, excellent schools, and proximity to major job hubs, it’s easy to see why so many people are moving here. However, like any town, it has its drawbacks. If you’re considering a move to Apex, here’s a closer look at the pros and cons.
Apex is just 20 minutes south of Raleigh, making it convenient for commuters. It’s also near Research Triangle Park (RTP), home to over 200 companies in the tech and pharmaceutical industries. The town offers easy access to major highways, simplifying travel around the Triangle area. Plus, Apex is only a two-hour drive from the beach and about three hours from the mountains, providing plenty of opportunities for weekend getaways.
Apex has been recognized for its outstanding quality of life, including being ranked the #1 place to live in America by Money Magazine in 2025. The town has a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and a vibrant downtown featuring local shops, restaurants, and seasonal festivals. Residents enjoy a variety of community events, including a farmers market, Christmas and 4th of July parades, and the annual Halloween festival on Salem Street.
Healthcare is an essential factor for anyone moving to a new area. In Apex, residents have access to some of the best healthcare facilities in North Carolina, including UNC Health, Duke Health, and WakeMed. These major hospital systems offer top-tier medical care within a short drive.
Families with children will appreciate Apex’s highly ranked schools. The area offers excellent educational opportunities, with arts, sports, and STEM programs. Additionally, three of North Carolina’s top universities—Duke University, NC State, and UNC Chapel Hill—are all within a short drive, providing great options for higher education.
Apex is an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts. Hunter Street Park, a 12-acre park near downtown, offers multi-use recreational fields and a skate park. Plans are also underway for a mountain bike skills course. While the town doesn’t have its own golf course community, excellent golf courses are nearby.
Apex doesn’t have any golf course communities or gated neighborhoods. Those looking for this type of housing may need to explore nearby towns like Holly Springs, Cary, or Chapel Hill.
Apex has a small-town feel, which means limited options for shopping and nightlife. You’ll need to drive to Raleigh if you’re looking for a vibrant nightlife scene or a central shopping district.
As a rapidly growing town, Apex has seen an increase in traffic. The town is working on infrastructure improvements, but congestion can still be an issue, especially during peak hours.
Apex is a beautiful place in the spring, but it comes with a seasonal downside—pollen. Known as “yellow snow,” the pollen season lasts a few weeks and can be difficult for allergy sufferers. However, the lush greenery and scenic beauty make up for it.
Apex, NC, offers a high quality of life with its excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong community feel. Its location near Raleigh and RTP makes it an attractive option for professionals and families. While it does have some downsides, such as limited nightlife and seasonal pollen, many residents find that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. If you’re looking for a charming, family-friendly town with great amenities, Apex may be the perfect place for you.
The Raleigh real estate market continues to evolve, with key insights from December 2024 pointing to interesting regional shifts. From rising home prices to changes in inventory levels, buyers and sellers should pay attention to the latest trends. Here’s a breakdown of market activity in Raleigh, Cary, Apex, and Holly Springs, plus expert predictions for 2025.
Raleigh remains a competitive real estate market, with home prices rising. The median sales price reached $475,000, marking a 10.8% increase from last year. However, homes are taking longer to sell, with a median of 24 days on the market—up 14%.
Inventory levels have also shifted, with 1,207 active listings in December 2024, up 15% from the previous year. Despite increased available homes, Raleigh is still in a seller’s market, with just 2.4 months of inventory.
Cary remains a top choice for families moving to the Raleigh area, thanks to its excellent schools and family-friendly neighborhoods. The median home price in Cary is now $605,000, reflecting a 5% increase from last year.
However, homes are taking significantly longer to sell, with an average of 23 days on the market—a 155% increase. Inventory remains tight, with only 159 active listings, down nearly 2% from the previous year. With just 1.3 months of supply, the market remains highly competitive for buyers.
Apex is a desirable market, with a median sales price of $576,000—up 10% from last year. While homes are selling slightly slower, with an average of 25 days on the market, demand remains strong.
Active listings increased by 10% to 73 homes in December, yet inventory levels remain tight at just 1.3 months. Despite an increase in supply, the available homes are still insufficient to meet buyer demand, keeping Apex a competitive market.
Historically a more affordable alternative to Cary and Apex, Holly Springs is seeing price trends shift. The median sales price is now $624,000, slightly down by 1% from December 2023.
New construction and business growth may influence this shift, attracting more buyers to the area. Homes are sitting on the market for an average of 27 days, and inventory levels are slowly increasing, with 74 active listings and 1.3 months of supply.
The Raleigh luxury market is expanding, with the median sales price for high-end homes reaching $1,013,000—a 1.3% increase. Inventory has risen slightly, with 335 active listings, while the days on the market have dropped to 21, showing strong demand in this segment.
New construction continues to drive growth, with three months of inventory available, creating opportunities for buyers looking at high-end homes.
According to Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors, home prices across the U.S. are expected to rise moderately in 2025. In North Carolina, 5-10% price increases are projected, with interest rates stabilizing between 6-6.5%.
While inventory levels may improve slightly, they will remain low, making it challenging for buyers. With strong demand and sellers hesitant to list, the Raleigh market is expected to stay competitive.
The Raleigh real estate market remains strong, with rising home prices and demand steady. While buyers may face limited inventory, stabilizing interest rates could create new opportunities. Whether buying or selling, staying informed on market trends will help you make the best decisions in 2025.
Living in Sunset Ridge South in Holly Springs, NC
Sunset Ridge South is a well-established neighborhood in Holly Springs, located in the southern part of Wake County. Known for its custom-built homes and mature landscaping, this community offers a blend of elegance and comfort. With top-notch amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no surprise that homes in Sunset Ridge South are highly sought after.
Sunset Ridge is one of the original neighborhoods in Wake County, featuring unique, custom-built homes that set it apart from newer developments. The community’s mature landscaping adds charm, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting for residents.
One of Sunset Ridge South’s standout features is the Devils Ridge Golf Club, located within the neighborhood. While membership is optional, most homeowners take advantage of the club’s benefits. Many residents even use golf carts to get around, making traveling fun and convenient within the community. Additionally, tennis and pool memberships are available, providing more ways for residents to stay active and socialize.
Families in Sunset Ridge South also appreciate the proximity to schools. Many children walk or bike to school, adding to the neighborhood’s friendly and connected feel.
Built in 1993, this beautiful home in Sunset Ridge that I recently sold has been updated to enhance its charm and functionality. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space, creating a bright and airy feel throughout. Recent updates include newly refinished hardwood floors, fresh interior and exterior paint, and a roof that is only two years old. The masonite siding has also been replaced, ensuring the home is well-maintained and move-in ready.
The hardwood floors continue upstairs, leading to spacious secondary bedrooms and a newly remodeled bathroom. The master suite is a luxurious retreat with an updated bathroom featuring all-new tile. A large laundry room connects to a versatile bonus room, which can be used as a home office, gym, or playroom.
Sunset Ridge South offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and community. With beautiful homes, fantastic amenities, and a prime location in Holly Springs, it’s easy to see why so many people love living here. This updated home is a gem, offering modern touches and timeless charm. If you’re looking for a home in Sunset Ridge, you won’t want to miss this one!
Holly Springs, NC, is a rapidly growing town that blends a thriving local economy with small-town charm. It is conveniently located near Raleigh, RTP, and major highways and has become an attractive destination for families and professionals. As the town expands, understanding the cost of living in Holly Springs is essential for anyone considering a move. This guide explores housing, everyday costs, and how the town compares to other cities.
Its booming housing market significantly influences the cost of living in Holly Springs. The median home price is $635,000, reflecting a 12% year-over-year increase. Resale homes are more affordable, starting around $400,000, offering options for various budgets. For renters, costs average $2,000 per month, with most single-family homes and townhomes ranging between $1,800 and $2,200.
As tech companies and high-paying jobs continue to move into the area, housing prices are expected to climb further. This upward trend highlights Holly Springs as a hub for professionals seeking quality homes near major employment centers.
Everyday costs in Holly Springs, NC, align with the national average. Groceries, fuel, and entertainment are generally comparable to costs in other towns across the U.S. Utilities for most homes include gas and electric, with winter heating costs varying slightly for gas-heated homes. Air conditioning and heating expenses remain manageable year-round, reflecting moderate utility costs for residents.
Although housing prices in Holly Springs are higher than in some nearby towns, they are much more affordable than larger cities. For example, Miami has a 19% higher cost of living and 54% higher housing costs. San Francisco is even more expensive, with a 70% higher cost of living and housing prices 182% higher. Holly Springs offers a balanced alternative, combining affordability with accessibility to employment hubs like Raleigh.
Property taxes also contribute to the overall cost of living in Holly Springs, with the average annual tax for a $635,000 home being $5,400. State income taxes, set to decrease to 4% in 2025, add further financial relief for residents.
Holly Springs benefits from a robust local economy, supported by high-paying jobs, particularly in the tech sector. The median household income is $128,000, well above the national average. This economic strength ensures that residents enjoy both earning potential and opportunities for growth while balancing the town’s higher housing costs.
The cost of living in Holly Springs, NC, reflects its status as a growing and prosperous community. While housing prices are higher than average, they remain competitive compared to major cities. Everyday costs are manageable, and the thriving local economy supports a high quality of life. For those seeking a mix of modern amenities and small-town charm, Holly Springs offers an excellent balance of affordability and opportunity.
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