Raleigh Apartments and Rentals

In 2010, Forbes Magazine ranked capital city Raleigh as one of the safest and most wired cities, and ranked it No. 2 in the country as the best place for business and careers, and Raleigh hasn't looked back ever since. A dynamic, well-educated and thriving Southern hub, this city is a great place for anyone looking to raise a family or shape their future. With its two area universities, business-friendly environment, commitment to arts and recreation and friendly Southern vibe, who wouldn't want to find themselves in Raleigh apartments for rent?

Some of the most popular areas in Raleigh include Boylan Heights - an historic neighborhood just minutes from downtown in the popular Five Points district. The areas around North Carolina State University are also popular and lively student areas for Raleigh apartments for rent. However, you can have your pick of neighborhoods in Raleigh in general since the city is one of the fastest-growing in the country. According to City-Data, Raleigh has seen a whopping 47 percent increase in residents from 2000 to 2010, which is not surprising since the city is so diverse and caters to several industries and people from all walks of life. No matter where you choose to live, you should be able to find your niche in Raleigh apartments.

Despite the city's low unemployment rate and explosive residential and business growth, living in Raleigh apartments for rent is pretty affordable. The cost of living index here is more than four points below the national percentage. The cost of a gallon of gas is $3.57 in Raleigh, according to AreaVibes - which is lower than the state's rate. The commute time from a Raleigh apartment to work is also 4 percent lower than the state's average, saving you even more money on fuel.

You can expect to pay about $625 to $650 a month for a typical one-bedroom apartment in Raleigh. Two bedroom apartments rent for about $750 to $850 on average. The city also offers more upscale rentals in mid-rise buildings and loft spaces. These rents are higher, such as $1,350 to $1,470 for a one-bedroom luxury unit in downtown Raleigh.

Raleigh is well known as a bustling college town. With North Carolina State University within the city limits, Raleigh attracts thousands of students to Raleigh apartments every year. However, if you expect nothing but a collegiate atmosphere, think again. Raleigh and the entire Research Triangle Park area consistently top the list of the nation's best cities for local economy and business. Many of the companies here are centered around high-tech and medical corporations, many of which work with the area universities in research.