Durham, known as the "City of Medicine," is a vibrant city in the heart of the Research Triangle area. It is known for its high-quality universities and research institutions, cultural diversity, and thriving arts scene. Home to Duke University and North Carolina Central University, Durham boasts a well-educated population and a solid commitment to healthcare, with world-renowned Duke University Hospital and many other healthcare facilities in the area. Durham also offers the Durham Performing Arts Center, the Museum of Life and Science, the Nasher Museum of Art, and the American Tobacco Historic District.

The city offers natural wonders, including the Eno River State Park, the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, and the American Tobacco Trail. Sports fans can enjoy cheering on the Duke Blue Devils or the Durham Bulls (MiLB) in historic Durham Bulls Athletic Park. The food scene is also a major draw, known for its farm-to-table dining and craft breweries. In addition, Durham hosts the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival and the Art of Cool Festival.

Durham offers an excellent quality of life with a bustling downtown, a strong sense of community, and plenty of amenities for residents to enjoy, making it a great place to live.

Rental Market Trends

Durham, NC

As of August 2025, Durham's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. Durham's average rent is 7.3% ($115) higher than the North Carolina average of $1,573 and 5.7% ($102) lower than the U.S. average of $1,790.

Average Rent

$1,688

Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change

1% ($17)

Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change

6.8% ($123)

Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market

Unit Type	Average Rent	Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change	Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
1 Bed	$1,468	0.3% ($4)	15.3% ($266)
2 Beds	$1,750	4.4% ($74)	10.4% ($203)
3 Beds	$2,249	0.8% ($18)	9.7% ($242)

Nearby Cities	Average Rent	Avg. Rent vs. DurhamAverage Rent vs. Durham	Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
Morrisville	$1,724	2.1% ($36)	20 days
Hillsborough	$1,451	14% ($237)	26 days
Chapel Hill	$2,131	26.2% ($443)	28 days
Carrboro	$1,420	15.9% ($268)	30 days
Creedmoor	$1,412	16.4% ($276)	33 days

Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Durham Rental Market FAQs

Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Durham, NC.

What is the average rent in Durham, NC?

The average rent in Durham, NC is $1,688 per month.

What is the rental price range for apartments in Durham, NC?

Apartments in Durham typically rent for between $1,028 and $2,924 per month, with an average of $1,688 per month.

What is the average rent for different bedroom sizes in Durham, NC?

In Durham, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $1,468 per month, for a 2-bedroom apartment, $1,750 per month, and a 3-bedroom apartment is $2,249 per month.

How do rent prices in Durham, NC compare with the national average?

The average rent in Durham is 5.7% ($102) lower than the national average of $1,790 per month.

How have rent prices in Durham, NC changed recently?

The average rent in Durham has increased by 1.0% ($17) in the last month and decreased by 6.8% ($123) over the past year.

How competitive is the rental market in Durham, NC?

The rental market in Durham, NC, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.

How long do rentals stay on the market in Durham, NC?

In Durham, NC, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 29 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.

How many rental properties are available in Durham, NC?

There are currently 517 rental properties available in Durham, NC.

Can I afford to rent an apartment in Durham, NC?

Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $70,000 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom apartment in Durham.