What are the top zip codes in Raleigh, NC, for new apartments?

The Raleigh boom is real: over 30,000 new apartments have been built in the last ten years to keep up with the city’s tech-led population surge. Understanding where these developments are concentrated can help apartment hunters find the ideal combination of location, value, and lifestyle as they navigate one of the nation’s fastest-growing rental markets.

Where should you start your apartment search in Raleigh?

Living in Raleigh offers a dynamic metropolitan lifestyle fueled by the Research Triangle Park economic engine and a thriving local culture of breweries and diverse dining. The cost of living here matches the North Carolina state average and is about 4% lower than the national average, offering a high quality of life that still feels accessible compared to major coastal hubs.

Here’s what you need to know about the neighborhoods where apartments are being built.

4,507 new apartments put zip code 27603 at the top of the construction list

Zip code 27603 added 4,507 new apartments, making it the city’s most active area for residential development. This zip code covers the rapidly expanding Brier Creek area and portions of northeast Raleigh, transforming former farmland into a premier mixed-use destination. While residents primarily rely on personal vehicles due to the suburban layout, the GoRaleigh bus system provides service along the Capital Boulevard corridor.

Major employers easily accessible from this area include Research Triangle Park, Raleigh-Durham International Airport, and tech firms in the Durham tech corridor. Most regional employment hubs are reachable within a 15–25 minute drive.

Zip code 27616 added 4,212 new apartments

Zip code 27616 gained 4,212 new apartments, reflecting massive residential investment in the suburban corridor north of the Beltline. This area attracts professionals drawn to the high-end shopping at North Hills and the established commercial hubs between Falls of Neuse Road and Wake Forest Road.

While the GoRaleigh bus system serves major streets, the neighborhood is designed for car ownership. Key employment centers nearby include the Midtown Raleigh business district, WakeMed, and UNC Rex healthcare facilities. Residents benefit from a strategic location where downtown Raleigh is a 15–20 minute drive and the Research Triangle Park is roughly 25 minutes away.

3,457 new apartments expand housing options in zip code 27607

Zip code 27607 added 3,457 new apartments, increasing rental options in the vibrant Midtown and Hillsborough Street corridors. This area offers some of the city’s best walkability, particularly around Cameron Village and Glenwood South, where local shops and bars are steps away. Transit access is strong with multiple GoRaleigh bus routes and dedicated bike lanes.

Major employers within walking or short commuting distance include NC State University, downtown government offices, and various tech startups. While Research Triangle Park is a 25–30 minute commute, the neighborhood’s urban character and proximity to cultural attractions make it a top choice for young professionals.

Zip code 27609 delivers 3,085 new apartments

Zip code 27609 added 3,085 new apartments, continuing the expansion of housing options in the established northwest suburbs. This zip code stretches between Crabtree Valley and Wake Forest Road, offering residents easy access to the Crabtree Valley Mall and surrounding office parks. Transportation relies on personal vehicles via the I-440 Beltline, though GoRaleigh provides service along Glenwood Avenue.

Employment opportunities are concentrated in the Crabtree Valley office district and the North Hills business area. With downtown Raleigh just 15–20 minutes away, this area provides a balanced suburban lifestyle with quick access to the city’s core professional services and corporate offices.

2,958 new apartments grow zip code 27610’s inventory

Zip code 27610 added 2,958 new apartments, reinforcing its position as a diverse and growing residential hub just southeast of downtown. The area includes the developing Depot District and established neighborhoods along New Bern Avenue. While walkability is high near the downtown edge, farther eastern reaches rely on car travel and GoRaleigh bus routes.

Workers benefit from proximity to downtown Raleigh offices, the NC State campus, and the WakeMed hospital system. This central location allows for short commutes to government buildings and healthcare facilities, while the Research Triangle Park remains accessible within 20–30 minutes for those working in tech or manufacturing.

Top 5 zip codes for new apartments in Raleigh, NC

* Total new apartments completed between 2015 and 2025.

Source:
RentCafe.com analysis of Yardi data as of July 2025

Raleigh’s rental market remains resilient as the city’s status as a top tech hub continues to drive multifamily demand across the metro. Development has concentrated in submarkets offering a blend of job access, modern amenities, and lifestyle perks, supporting long-term interest from young professionals and families.

While a significant amount of new supply has entered the market, consistent growth in the healthcare, education, and pharmaceutical sectors has kept demand balanced. Ongoing domestic migration and the city’s reputation as a high-value alternative to coastal tech centers continue to reinforce Raleigh’s position as one of the most dynamic rental markets in the Southeast.

Methodology

RentCafe.com is a nationwide apartment search website that enables renters to easily find apartments and houses for rent throughout the U.S.

This study uses data from 2015–2025, with the ‘past decade’ referring to this period.