Cost of Living in Durham, NC
Population: 288,465 • 2026 Data
$79,234
Median Household Income
+2% vs national
$1,412
Median Monthly Rent
+5% vs national
$355,300
Median Home Value
+5% vs national
4.1%
Unemployment Rate
Housing in Durham
The median home value in Durham, NC is $355,300. Monthly rent for a typical unit averages $1,412, while total monthly housing costs (including utilities and insurance) average $1,434.
Rent-to-income ratio: 21.4%. This is within the recommended 30% threshold, suggesting housing is relatively affordable for median-income earners.
Income and Employment
The median household income in Durham, NC is $79,234. The unemployment rate stands at 4.1%, with a labor force of 163,490 people.
Data Sources
All data from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates. National median figures used for comparison context.