Clayton, NC vs. Durham, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Thinking about relocating to the Research Triangle area of North Carolina? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between the suburban town of Clayton and the larger city of Durham. It’s perfect for families, young professionals, or anyone weighing the real costs of living in Clayton vs Durham in 2025.
A common myth is that living in the Durham metro is always more expensive than a smaller town like Clayton. But when you break down the numbers, that’s not always the case. Let’s dive into the key factors.
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1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest line item in any monthly budget. Here’s how typical costs compare:
| Housing Type | Clayton | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,600 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $525,000 |
🏆 Winner: Clayton. Housing costs an estimated 10-15% less in Clayton compared to Durham proper.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Expect utilities to run about $180-$250 per month for a 2BR apartment in either city, with costs rising in the summer if you blast the AC. Duke Energy serves both areas.
🏆 Winner: Tie. No major difference in utility costs.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries tend to cost about the same in Clayton and Durham, with major chains like Food Lion, Harris Teeter, and Publix in both cities. Eating out is 5-10% cheaper in Clayton.
🏆 Winner: Clayton, but only slightly. Sample Monthly Budgets for Clayton in 2025 show the typical breakdown.
4. Taxes and Fees
Clayton’s property tax rate is 0.55%, while Durham’s is 0.65%. Vehicle taxes and registration fees are similar. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, fees often include amenities like a community pool in Clayton.
🏆 Winner: Clayton. Lower property taxes can add up to meaningful savings for homeowners.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Clayton | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR rent) | $1,450 | $1,600 |
| Utilities | $200 | $200 |
| Groceries | $400 | $425 |
| Transportation | $200 | $150 |
| Taxes (property) | 0.55% | 0.65% |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,250 | $2,375 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Clayton offers a quieter suburban feel, with more space but longer commutes to the Research Triangle. Durham provides an urban vibe with walkable neighborhoods and ample public transportation. Durham averages 2°F cooler than Clayton in the summer.
7. FAQs
- Is Clayton more affordable than Durham? Yes, by about 10% overall.
- Which city has lower rent? Clayton, with 2BR rents around $150 less per month.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Clayton. Expect to pay 10-20% less for a comparable house.
8. Conclusion
While the cost of living is lower across the board in Clayton, Durham can still be affordable, especially if you value a more urban lifestyle and don’t mind a smaller space. To dig deeper, read our full Cost of Living in Clayton – Housing, Groceries, Taxes & More breakdown.
Whichever you choose, consider our 2025 moving company picks to make your relocation a breeze. The Research Triangle has a lot to offer!