Fuquay Varina, NC vs. Durham, NC: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Fuquay Varina vs Durham. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Fuquay Varina vs Durham in 2025.
Imagine two families, the Johnsons in Fuquay Varina and the Smiths in Durham. Both rent a 2-bedroom apartment and buy similar groceries each month. Let’s compare their expenses line-by-line:
- Rent: Johnsons pay $1,350, Smiths pay $1,550
- Utilities: Johnsons pay $180, Smiths pay $210
- Groceries: Johnsons spend $600, Smiths spend $650
In this example, the Fuquay Varina family would save $280 per month, or $3,360 per year, on these basic expenses compared to their Durham counterparts. Of course, individual budgets vary, but this illustrates the cost differences between the two cities. For a more detailed look at monthly expenses, check out our Fuquay Varina Monthly Budget Guide.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Fuquay Varina and Durham compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Fuquay Varina | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,300 | $1,500 |
| 3BR House (Monthly Mortgage*) | $1,700 | $2,100 |
*Assuming 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4% APR
🏆 Winner: Fuquay Varina
Fuquay Varina offers more affordable housing options, with median rents and home prices notably lower than Durham. For a full cost breakdown, see our guide on the Cost of Living in Fuquay Varina.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between Fuquay Varina and Durham. Expect monthly bills around:
- Electricity: $100-150
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-90
- Internet: $50-80
Both cities experience hot summers and mild winters. Summer electric bills may be slightly higher in Durham due to more cooling needs.
🏆 Winner: Fuquay Varina (but it’s close)
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable in Fuquay Varina and Durham. Expect to spend around $250-350 per person monthly on food and household items.
Eating out is also similarly priced. A meal at a casual restaurant averages $12-18 in both cities, while fast food runs $7-10.
🏆 Winner: Tie
4. Taxes and Fees
Wake County (Fuquay Varina) has a slightly lower property tax rate of 0.60% compared to Durham County at 0.71%. For a $300,000 home, that’s a difference of $330 per year.
Both cities charge similar fees for services like trash collection and car registration. HOA fees are common in newer Fuquay Varina neighborhoods, typically $100-300 monthly.
🏆 Winner: Fuquay Varina
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Fuquay Varina | Durham |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (2BR Rent) | $1,300 | $1,500 |
| Utilities | $200 | $220 |
| Groceries | $600 | $600 |
| Transportation | $250 | $200 |
| Taxes (0.60% vs 0.71% property tax) | $150 | $180 |
| Misc | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,900 | $3,100 |
Figures are estimates based on a 2-person household. Your actual costs may vary.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Fuquay Varina offers a quieter suburban lifestyle with more space for the money. Expect larger yards, easier parking, and lower-density neighborhoods. Most errands require a car in Fuquay Varina.
Durham provides an urban feel with walkable areas, public transit, and closer proximity to jobs and universities. It’s easier to get by without a car in Durham, but housing is more compact.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Fuquay Varina more affordable than Durham?
A: Yes, Fuquay Varina has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to cheaper housing. Other costs like food and utilities are comparable.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Fuquay Varina has lower rent on average. Expect to pay 10-20% less than similar apartments in Durham.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Fuquay Varina has lower home prices and slightly lower property taxes, making it more affordable for buyers. Use our moving cost calculator to estimate your expenses.
8. Conclusion
Fuquay Varina offers a lower cost of living, driven by more affordable housing. It’s a great fit for those seeking a suburban lifestyle and more space for their dollar. Families and remote workers may find it especially appealing.
Durham’s higher costs come with urban perks like walkability, transit access, and a more lively downtown. It’s ideal for students, young professionals, and those who prefer a car-optional lifestyle.
Ultimately, both Fuquay Varina and Durham offer a good quality of life. We recommend visiting each to get a feel for which fits your priorities and budget. For more insights, check out our other cost of living comparisons for North Carolina cities.