Raleigh, NC has consistently topped most national surveys as one of the best cities in the country to live, work, play and learn. It's no wonder too- Raleigh undoubtedly has one of the best real estate and job markets in the country and its schooling system is state-of-the-art.
Hip and happening, Raleigh's downtown is the heart of the Triangle. With plenty of art galleries and antique markets, life entertainment and fabulous restaurants, downtown is brimming with culture and entertainment.
Short History Of Raleigh's Downtown
Established in 1792, the city was named after Sir Walter Raleigh, who sponsored the Colony of Roanoke or Lost Colony, which is currently the famous Fort Raleigh National Historic Site. Raleigh is unusual in that it is one of those rare United States' cities that was expressly planned and constructed to house the state capital. Prior to its appointment as state capital in 1788, no other city or town existed on that particular site. In December 1794, Raleigh hosted its very first North Carolina General Assembly convention.
Downtown Raleigh very quickly grew from its original size and developed as the center for transportation and banking after the addition of streetcar lines in the 1920s.
Present Day Downtown
Downtown Raleigh today consists of almost 6 million sq. ft of commercial office space clustered in the Fayetteville Street District with a staggering occupancy rate of about 90%. With more than 5,250 condominiums, apartments, single family homes and town homes downtown and an additional 2.640 units under construction, the statistics are overwhelming. More than 15,000 residents live within a 1-mile radius of Downtown Raleigh and about 85,660 live within a 3-mile radius.
Downtown Real Estate
Driving the success of Downtown Raleigh's booming real estate market has been the steady growth of jobs and a remarkable absence of any downturn in industry.
Residents in and around Downtown Raleigh live in close proximity to the work place as well as a pulsating nightlife and fine restaurants and easy access to most amenities.
Beautiful residential areas that are kid- friendly, several well-maintained parks including the cherished Moore and Nash Squares Park, excellent schooling and fine universities make Downtown Raleigh a much sought-after address for families.
Not too far from Downtown are university communities, historic neighborhoods and appealing suburban living in North Raleigh, Southwest Raleigh, West Raleigh and East Raleigh, each district with its own distinct character and inviting amenities.