Durham Photo

Penrith, Durham,NC

Neighborhood Data
Proximitii Score score
? /100
Amenities Score Amenities Score Locked
Transit Score Transit & Commute Score Locked
Schools Score Schools Score Locked
Health & Safety Score Health & Safety Score Locked
City Crime Score Crime (City) Score Locked
Location Crime Score Crime (Location) Score Locked
Economy Score Economy Score Locked
Housing Score Housing Score Locked

Penrith, nestled in the southeast part of Durham, NC, is a charming neighborhood that offers a wonderful blend of suburban tranquility and convenient city access. If you're moving or relocating here, you'll quickly appreciate the peaceful streets lined with a mix of traditional and contemporary homes, perfect for families, young professionals, or retirees alike. The community vibe is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to meet neighbors and get involved in local events. With well-maintained parks and green spaces nearby, Penrith is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities such as jogging, biking, or simply taking leisurely strolls.

One of the standouts of Penrith is its proximity to some fantastic local attractions. The neighborhood is just a short drive away from the scenic Eno River State Park, a favorite spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. For those who love a bit of culture and history, the nearby Museum of Durham History and the Durham Performing Arts Center offer enriching experiences. Foodies will appreciate the variety of dining options within a quick reach, ranging from cozy cafes to trendy restaurants featuring local flavors. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the convenience of local boutiques and grocery stores in the surrounding area, ensuring Penrith residents never have to venture far for their daily needs.

Penrith’s location also means you're only about a 10 to 15-minute drive from Downtown Durham, making it easy to enjoy the vibrant city life without the hustle and bustle right at your doorstep. This close proximity allows residents to take advantage of Downtown’s lively nightlife, farmers markets, and cultural festivals with ease. Whether you're commuting to work or heading out for a weekend adventure, Penrith offers a perfect balance of accessibility and peaceful living. Overall, it’s a neighborhood that feels like a hidden gem for anyone looking to settle down in the Durham area.

Community Snapshot

Population 3,010
Density (People/sqml.) 2,373
Median Age 35.2
Married Couples
47%
47% of the population of Penrith aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
20%
20% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

20% of the Penrith population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 20% 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.

Age Breakdown

Penrith neighborhood age breakdown chart

Penrith 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 3,010 residents, Penrith 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.

Penrith has a population density of 2,373, 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 35, 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.

Crime in Penrith

Crime Safety Index Score Locked 1 2 3 4 5

 

Total Crime Incidents
Try for free within 1 mile
Score Locked per 100k people

Types of Crime

Penrith neighborhood age breakdown chart

Penrith Crime Map

The Penrith crime map provides an in-depth look at crime rates throughout the community, using block group data to reveal both safer pockets and places with more frequent incidents. By visualizing these patterns, the crime map helps residents and newcomers alike better understand the dynamics of neighborhood safety. It’s worth noting that higher-crime areas on the map aren’t always indicative of danger — spots near busy commercial centers, transportation hubs, or popular attractions may naturally show more reports due to increased activity.

Housing

? /10
Home Price $262,014
Median Rent $1,565
People/Household 2.2

Home Price Breakdown

Penrith neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 36% Own 64%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 50% After 2010 50%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Penrith, the median home price is about $262,014, 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 Penrith 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.

With an average rent price of $1,565, rental rates in Penrith are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Starbucks
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Bean Traders
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

Sharp 9 Gallery Jazz Club
Theatre Arts
min.
min.
Russell Blunt Memorial Stadium
Stadium
min.
min.

Food & Drink

Chick-fil-A
Fast Food
min.
min.
Taco Bell
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Good, Better, Best
Bakery
min.
min.
Halgo European Deli
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Playground
Playground
min.
min.
Playground
Playground
min.
min.

Shops

Food Mart 16
Convenience Store
min.
min.
Lowe's
Home Improvement
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

NC 55 at Carpenter Fletcher Rd (SB)
Bus Stop
min.
min.
NC 55 at Carpenter Fletcher Rd (NB)
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Walgreens
Pharmacy
min.
min.
Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

Duke Urgent Care South
Doctor
min.
min.
Triangle Family Practice
Doctor
min.
min.

Safety

Durham Fire Station Number 12
Fire Station
min.
min.
Parkwood Volunteer Fire Department
Fire Station
min.
min.

Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Pearsontown Elementary
4915 Barbee Road, Durham, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Nc Virtual Academy
4220 Nc Highway 55, Durham, NC
High School KG - 12 School Score
Southwest Elementary
2320 Cook Road, Durham, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
St Sya Academy Ii
3102 Cedarwood Dr, Durham, NC
High School KG - 11 School Score
Al Huda Academy
5104 Revere Rd, Durham, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Kestrel Heights School
4900 Prospectus Drive, Durham, NC
Elementary School KG - 8 School Score
Hillside New Tech High
3727 Fayetteville St, Durham, NC
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

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

Economy

? /10
Income Per Capita $46,107
Household Income $86,065
Unemployment 2.5%

Income Breakdown

Penrith Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

Industry Employed
Agriculture & Mining Unlock
Construction Unlock
Manufacturing Unlock
Wholesale & Retail Unlock
Transportation & Warehousing Unlock
Information Unlock
Finance & Insurance Unlock

Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Penrith average around $86,065, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Penrith, the unemployment rate is just 2%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Penrith is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and well-maintained parks, such as the nearby Forest Hills Park, which offers walking trails and picnic areas. Residents enjoy proximity to the vibrant Ninth Street district, a bustling area filled with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The neighborhood also benefits from being close to the Sarah P. Duke Gardens, perfect for nature lovers and weekend strolls.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, Penrith hosts several community-driven events, including seasonal block parties and neighborhood yard sales that foster neighborly connections. Additionally, residents often participate in Durham’s annual events like the Durham Food Truck Rodeo and the Durham Art Walk, which are easily accessible from the neighborhood.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Penrith offers convenient access to major highways such as I-85 and NC-147, making commutes to downtown Durham and the Research Triangle Park straightforward. Public transit is also accessible, with GoDurham bus routes servicing the area, providing reliable options for residents who prefer not to drive.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
Unlock to see 82 70 64 74 80 35 51 45
Unlock to see 75 84 56 43 51 83 35 83
Unlock to see 68 54 53 30 36 86 85 63
Penrith Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe Subscribe
Unlock to see 49 79 48 47 69 88 71 76
Unlock to see 36 90 43 69 39 61 68 34
Unlock to see 25 57 40 43 69 61 68 59

Other Neighborhoods in Durham, NC