Cost of Living in Durham
Summary: If you are thinking about moving to Durham, here is an overview of the cost of living there.
Durham, is a small town in Middlesex County with a rural charm and a close-knit community. The cost of living in Durham is generally higher than the national average, primarily due to the housing market and the overall cost of living in the Northeastern United States. Housing prices in Durham can vary significantly based on the property's location, size, and condition. As of my knowledge cutoff in early 2023, the median home value for a 3-bedroom home in Durham is approximately $300,000 to $400,000, while a 4-bedroom home may range from $400,000 to $500,000 or more, depending on the aforementioned factors.
Apartment rentals in Durham are less common than home rentals or purchases, as the town has a more suburban and rural character with fewer multi-family dwellings. However, for the available rental properties, a 1 or 2-bedroom apartment might cost between $1,200 and $1,800 per month. Apartment purchases are not a typical transaction in Durham, as the housing market is predominantly composed of single-family homes.
When it comes to dining out, restaurant prices in Durham are on par with what you might expect in a suburban area of Connecticut. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant might cost around $15 to $20 per person, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant could be priced between $50 and $70 per person. Fast food and takeout options are also available, with prices similar to national averages.
Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, for a standard 85m² apartment in Durham, can range from $150 to $250 per month, depending on usage and the time of year. Internet services typically add an additional $60 to $100 to monthly expenses.
Private school tuition varies widely depending on the institution and the level of education. For preschool, annual tuition can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. Elementary and middle schools may charge between $10,000 and $25,000 per year, while private high schools can cost upwards of $25,000 to $40,000 annually. These figures can fluctuate based on the school's reputation, facilities, and the breadth of programs offered.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| 3-Bedroom Home Purchase | $300,000 - $400,000 |
| 4-Bedroom Home Purchase | $400,000 - $500,000+ |
| Apartment Rental (1-2 Bedrooms) | $1,200 - $1,800 per month |
| Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant | $15 - $20 |
| Meal for 2, Mid-Range Restaurant, Three-course | $50 - $70 |
| Utilities (Monthly for 85m² Apartment) | $150 - $250 |
| Internet (Monthly) | $60 - $100 |
| Private Preschool Tuition (Annual) | $5,000 - $10,000+ |
| Private Elementary School Tuition (Annual) | $10,000 - $25,000 |
| Private Middle School Tuition (Annual) | $10,000 - $25,000 |
| Private High School Tuition (Annual) | $25,000 - $40,000+ |
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of BlueBurbia and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and BlueBurbia, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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