The Research Triangle is anchored by three research universities — UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke and NC State — and Research Triangle Park between them. People move here for university, health care, life sciences and technology jobs, and they often stay for the mild climate, trees and college-town feel.
How the area fits together
- Chapel Hill is home to UNC and UNC Health, with leafy neighborhoods and a busy downtown along Franklin Street.
- Carrboro, next door, is smaller, walkable and known for its farmers' market and music venues.
- Durham offers a revitalized downtown, Duke University and Duke Health, and a wide range of housing.
- Hillsborough, the Orange County seat, has a historic downtown and a slower pace.
- Chatham County, to the south, includes Pittsboro, larger lots and planned communities.
Planning the move
- Map your commute first; I-40, US 15-501 and NC 54 carry most cross-Triangle traffic.
- Compare property tax rates by county and town.
- Check school assignments directly with each district.
- Visit at least once on a weekday at rush hour.
The articles in this guide look at each area in more depth.