15 Things to Know Before Moving to Fuquay-Varina, NC
Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, is rapidly rising to the ranks of Triangle cities thanks to the influx of new residents. A once-idle hamlet that few would have dreamed of relocating to is now a hotspot in the Triangle.
The population of Fuquay-Varina has increased by 36,736 in the past decade, nearly doubling. As more and more people move to the Raleigh suburb of Fuquay-Varina, the number of new homes being built there is increasing.
Before you pack your bags and move, here are fifteen things to know before moving to Fuquay-Varina, NC!
1. Fuquay-Varina is a growing city
Growth is raging in Fuquay-Varina. Here you can find one of the Triangle’s most rapidly expanding urban areas. Fuquay appears to be the destination of choice for everyone. This indicates that the neighborhood is experiencing a plethora of interesting developments; new businesses, including restaurants and shops, as well as a large number of homes, are on the way.
Even better, there is a lot of room for the town to expand. That means you have more options for where to settle down and buy a home.
2. Fuquay-Varina has a low crime rate
In Wake County, Fuquay-Varina is a wonderful spot to settle down with a family because of how safe it is. Fuquay-Varina natives are quick to brag about their hometown and express their gratitude for the opportunity to live there.
The likelihood of being a victim of violent crime is one in 1,113, whereas the likelihood of becoming a victim of property crime is one in 120.
3. Live in Phillips Pointe, South Lake, Sunset Lake, or Bentwinds
People tend to gravitate toward the following Fuquay-Varina neighborhoods:
When it comes to Triangle communities, Sunset Lake is sometimes overlooked, despite being an outstanding area in Fuquay-Varina/Holly Springs. For buyers considering reasonably priced houses in a waterfront or near-water location in Fuquay-Varina, South Lake is a great neighborhood to consider. Among South Lake’s many amenities are beautiful residences and paths for strolls.
People looking for communities near lakes can find them in northeast Fuquay-Varina, at Bentwinds. Bentwinds is a fantastic value because of the huge lots, spacious homes, and low rates. You should check out Bentwinds if you’d prefer a top-notch neighborhood in Fuquay-Varina.
Phillips Pointe is a great area to live in since it is close to Main Street and provides easy access to the heart of Fuquay-Varina. Living at Phillips Pointe gives residents a peaceful retreat from the bustle of downtown Fuquay-Varina, yet they’re still within walking distance! There isn’t a Fuquay-Varina neighborhood like this one.
4. A convenient, central location
The commute from Fuquay-Varina to Research Triangle Park, where many people have jobs, can take up to forty-five minutes each way. It will take you approximately 25 to 40 minutes to travel into downtown Raleigh.
Holly Springs is also not far away. So if you’re heading to Research Triangle Park, the airport, or downtown Raleigh, you’ll get there in no time.
5. The cost of living is 5% higher than the national average
The cost of living index in Fuquay-Varina is 105, which means living costs here are only 5% higher than the national average. The median home price is only slightly higher than the national average of $430,000, at $434,249.
Compared to the national average, utility prices are still 3% cheaper, and transport costs are 4% lower. Property prices have been on the rise over the past three and a half years, but compared to other comparable locations in the nation and state, the median listing price is still relatively low.
6. Fuquay-Varina has two downtown districts
Fuquay-Varina boasts two distinct downtown districts, each offering its own unique charm and character.
Fuquay Springs, also known as “Fuquay Downtown,” is the heart of the older section of town. Lined with historic buildings and storefronts, this area exudes a quaint, small-town vibe. The avenue is also home to several delightful eateries, cafes, and restaurants, offering a diverse range of cuisines to suit every palate.
Varina Downtown, situated a short distance from Fuquay Avenue, provides a different yet equally charming experience. This district features a mix of historic buildings and newer establishments, creating a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. The area is known for its vibrant nightlife, offering live music, bars, and pubs that attract both locals and tourists alike. The welcoming atmosphere and variety of entertainment options make it a hub for social gatherings and community events.
Both downtown districts reflect Fuquay-Varina’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing growth and modernity. Visitors can enjoy a delightful blend of history, culture, shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences in these distinct and lively areas.
7. The city is quite walkable
Thanks to the thoughtful layout of the roadways, strolling between the two downtown areas is a breeze. Fuquay-Varina is also becoming more pedestrian-friendly, according to the city’s walkability master plan.
As a Main Street Community in North Carolina and a Main Street Program that has received national accreditation, the city’s Main Street area lives up to its name. The city is undergoing a complete transformation to better accommodate both locals and tourists.
8. Fuquay-Varina has traffic problems
Fuquay-Varina is a fantastic spot, but the rising attention has led to an undesirable increase in traffic. Few routes lead into or out of Fuquay. You should be prepared for traffic delays if you don’t have an office in town or if you work remotely and need to travel to Raleigh or anywhere else in the triangle.
Lucky for Fuquay-Varina, Interstate 540 is on its way there. It will help reduce traffic to some extent, but keep in mind that any town or city experiencing growth will also experience increased traffic.
9. Work in the surrounding Research Triangle area or the manufacturing or information technology industry
Even though most Fuquay-Varina residents work in Raleigh or the surrounding area of Research Triangle Park, the city is home to many prosperous enterprises and notable individuals in the economy.
If you are in need of employment or are relocating to the area, Fuquay-Varina is home to more than 13,000 people, and that number appears to be increasing, as more and more organizations choose to set up shop there.
Fuquay is a great place to look for a job, whether you’re seeking a full-time or part-time career in the advanced manufacturing, biotechnology and pharmaceutical, business and financial services, cleantech, information technology, or retail segments of the economy.
Fidelity Bank, John Deere, Bob Barker Company, and TE Connectivity are some of the city’s leading employers.
10. Fuquay-Varina summers are hot, and the city gets little to no snow
Hot and steamy summers and short, bitterly cold winters characterize Fuquay-Varina’s moderate climate, which is typical of the North Carolina Piedmont Region.
Every day, even in the driest months, the weather in Fuquay is wet and partly cloudy because the city receives an average of 105 days of precipitation every year. This precipitation might take the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
Average highs in July reach approximately 89 degrees Fahrenheit and lows in January hit 30 degrees Fahrenheit, with summers typically seeing temperatures in the 70s and winters in the mid to low 40s.
On average, Fuquay-Varina gets only around three inches of snow per year, which is hardly enough to cover the ground. The majority of Fuquay’s snowfall occurs in January; however, occasionally there is absolutely no snowfall at all.
11. The city retains its small-town charm
Renowned for its small-town charm and easygoing lifestyle, Fuquay-Varina exemplifies southern living with its close-knit community of welcoming individuals.
The town of Fuquay is a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, thanks to the long-term residents who have never gone and the newcomers who are relocating to the area as the city expands.
There is an abundance of opportunities to get involved and meet new people without having to drive far, thanks to the many activities hosted throughout the year, such as a farmer’s market, ice cream socials, and holiday celebrations.
12. Eat in places like The Mason Jar Tavern, Anna’s Pizzeria, or Aviator Smokehouse
Fuquay-Varina is brimming with mouthwatering restaurants that will leave you wanting more.
No matter what your dining preferences are—a fantastic brunch spot, a spot to get specialty drinks, or a spot to arrange a romantic date—Fuquay is home to a never-ending supply of restaurants that can satisfy any type of palate.
Some of the city’s top restaurants include The Mason Jar Tavern, Anna’s Pizzeria, Aviator Smokehouse, and Abbey Road Tavern.
13. Fuquay-Varina schools are a part of the Wake County Public School System
Fuquay-Varina takes great pride in its seven elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools, and one public charter school, all of which are members of the Wake County Public School System, the biggest and most prestigious school system in North Carolina.
If you have a specific school in mind, it can be wise to research which Fuquay neighborhoods host that school before making a purchase.
14. Have fun at places like Fuquay Mineral Spring Park, Inner Beast Hatchet House, or Fuquay-Varina Splash Pad
Great for strolls and picnics, Fuquay Mineral Spring Park is located close to the heart of the city. From Memorial Day Weekend until Labor Day, the Fuquay-Varina Splash Pad is open for fun splashing about with the kids. If it’s scorching outside, this is the place to go to cool down.
Come hang out at Inner Beast Hatchet House, a place where you can toss axes digitally, play shuffleboard, and have a drink with your pals. At the 28-acre Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Park, visitors can enjoy the park’s two-mile walking track, picnic shelters, and wheelchair-accessible amphitheater.
15. Fuquay and Varina were formerly two separate towns
Wondering why Fuquay-Varina has two downtown areas? The towns of Fuquay Springs and Varina were formerly one and the same. To develop a new name in 1963, a hyphen was only added to the middle, thus merging the two.
Thus, we have one large town that was once two smaller ones, with two distinct downtown areas situated around one mile apart; Fuquay Downtown and Varina Downtown.
Final Thoughts
Fuquay-Varina, NC, has undergone remarkable growth in recent years, transforming from a quiet town into a thriving community. With a doubling population and ongoing development, it’s become a sought-after destination in the Triangle region.
However, keep in mind that while offering diverse neighborhoods, low crime rates, and proximity to Raleigh, the town faces traffic challenges amid expansion.
