Lakewood Park, Durham,NC

If you’re considering a move to Durham, NC, Lakewood Park in the southeastern part of the city is a neighborhood worth exploring. Known for its welcoming community vibe and family-friendly atmosphere, Lakewood Park offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. Residents often praise the neighborhood for its lush green spaces and well-maintained parks, perfect for weekend picnics, morning jogs, or evening strolls. The namesake Lakewood Park is a standout attraction here, featuring walking trails, playgrounds, and scenic spots by the water that draw locals together for outdoor fun and relaxation.

What makes Lakewood Park particularly appealing to newcomers is its proximity to Downtown Durham, which is just about a 10 to 15-minute drive away. This means you can easily enjoy the vibrant cultural scene, eclectic dining options, and lively nightlife downtown while retreating to the calm and quiet of a residential neighborhood at the end of the day. The neighborhood is also close to several shopping centers, fitness clubs, and quality schools, making it an ideal choice for families as well as young professionals. Additionally, community events and farmers markets frequently take place nearby, fostering a strong sense of local connection and engagement among residents.

For those relocating to Durham, Lakewood Park offers a balanced lifestyle that combines convenience with comfort. The neighborhood is well-connected to major roadways, making commuting a breeze whether you work in Durham or the surrounding Research Triangle area. Beyond its natural charm and accessibility, Lakewood Park has a variety of housing options ranging from charming single-family homes to modern townhouses, catering to diverse preferences and budgets. With its friendly atmosphere, great amenities, and close-knit community feel, Lakewood Park stands out as a fantastic choice for anyone looking to settle in the southeast part of Durham.

About 28% of the Lakewood Park population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 24% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Lakewood Park 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 906 residents, Lakewood Park 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.

Lakewood Park has a population density of 3,256, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Durham neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

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 Lakewood Park 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 prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Lakewood Park, the median home price is about $344,467, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Lakewood Park have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $959, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Lakewood Park. 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 Lakewood Park 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.