New to triangle, what are the best places (Raleigh, Durham: apartment complex, rental)

[amonaghan]

My girlfriend and I are moving to the triangle area in the middle of june, and I was looking for information about the area. What are good places to live for a mid 20s couple, close to the action? What neighborhoods are lice around the area, and what neighborhoods have a lot of character to it? I know very little about the area, and would like any information anyone wants to provide. I am really excited to move to Raleigh!

[Nacht]

Chapel Hill-Carrboro or any of the close-in neighborhoods in Raleigh or Durham. Do a search of the boards.

[TIlover]

If you know little about the area, why are you so excited to move here?

Really, though, what are you looking for? There are tons of neighborhoods around here but it's going to depend on your personal preference, your price range, where you're working, etc. For those in their 20s who want to be "close to the action" I'd automatically think somewhere in Raleigh/downtown, but downtown is expensive. Do you want to rent or buy? Do you want access to public transportation? Do you want to be close to malls/shopping? Etc.

[amonaghan]

I'm going to be renting for the first year, and then maybe buy a house. I'll be working at the RTP. I was looking at apartments around the raleigh area, but would like to stay away from large apartment complexes, if possible.

[TIlover]

Hmm.. that's a tough one. Would you want to rent a house, apartment, or townhome? I say it's tough because there are SO many options. There are a lot of big apartment complexes in the area, but around downtown Raleigh (close to NCSU) there are a lot of rental houses, duplexes, etc. I guess it will come down to where you want to be - close to RTP? Or closer to the "happening" area (which I still say would be downtown Raleigh)? I know many of my friends who are married and in their 20s live off of Glenwood, Lynn Rd/Duraleigh Rd area (I'm not sure if either of those names are familiar to you); there are townhomes back there. That's not too far from downtown (10-15 mins) and it's also close to 540, which will take you right to RTP. Brier Creek is closeby, too, which has plenty of stores. Umstead Park is nearby if you like hiking. You won't have a problem finding a good place!