Fairfield, Durham,NC

If you’re considering a move to Durham, NC, the Fairfield neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a wonderful blend of community charm and convenient amenities. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained homes, Fairfield is a great choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. One of the standout features of this neighborhood is its access to beautiful green spaces, including several local parks where residents can enjoy walking trails, playgrounds, and outdoor sports facilities. The sense of community here is strong, with neighborhood events and friendly neighbors making it easy to feel at home quickly.

Fairfield is also a fantastic spot for those who appreciate shopping and dining options close to home. The nearby Streets at Southpoint mall is a major attraction, offering a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues just a short drive away. For food lovers, the area features several popular local eateries and cafes that serve everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Additionally, the neighborhood is conveniently close to several top-rated schools, making it a practical choice for families prioritizing education. With well-planned streets and sidewalks, Fairfield encourages an active lifestyle, whether you want to stroll around the neighborhood or bike to nearby attractions.

When it comes to getting around, Fairfield’s location in southeast Durham provides easy access to Downtown, which is roughly a 10 to 15-minute drive depending on traffic. This proximity means you can enjoy the vibrant culture, nightlife, and job opportunities of the city center while retreating to the quieter, more relaxed pace of neighborhood living. Downtown Durham offers an array of theaters, galleries, breweries, and historic sites, ensuring you have plenty to explore when you want a change of scenery. Overall, Fairfield combines the best of both worlds: peaceful suburban living with quick access to the excitement and conveniences of Durham’s urban core.

In Fairfield, 49% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With about 49% of residents over 16 with kids, you'll notice a distinctly family-oriented atmosphere. The neighborhood buzzes with energy from local parks, playgrounds, and weekend sports games, creating a strong sense of community among parents and kids alike. Streets tend to be lively and welcoming, with neighbors often gathering for school events, block parties, or casual get-togethers. Families are drawn to the area for its safe environment, nearby schools, and shared sense of connection.

Fairfield demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,810 residents, Fairfield is notably smaller than many other Durham neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,673 people per square mile, Fairfield offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Durham neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

With an average age of 33, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Fairfield crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Fairfield, home prices come in around $508,550, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Fairfield can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

The average rent price is about $0, which is lower than many surrounding areas. This makes it an appealing option for renters seeking budget-friendly living without sacrificing convenience, location, or quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Fairfield. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Fairfield offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.