Durham, NC

University and health-science hub with growing downtown and regional rail connectivity.

Overall rank: #12 of 25
Relocation score: 60 / 100
Cost of living: 102 US avg = 100
Median household income: $73,000
Unemployment: 3.6%
State income tax (top): 4.5%
Jan low / Jul high: 31°F / 88°F
Region type: city

Data sources

Bureau of Labor Statistics — LAUS (2024 Q4) — unemployment rate
Bureau of Economic Analysis — Regional Price Parities (2023) — cost of living index
U.S. Census Bureau — ACS 5-Year Estimates (2023) — median household income
Tax Foundation (2024) — state top income tax rate
NOAA — U.S. Climate Normals (1991–2020) — January low / July high temperatures

Data updated: May 21, 2026, 10:40 AM UTC · 25 regions ranked · Run 13552fba · Checksum 604ee0e8d132…

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