Preston Woods, Durham,NC

If you're considering a move to Durham, NC, the Preston Woods neighborhood in the southeast part of the city is definitely worth a look. Known for its serene, tree-lined streets and charming homes, Preston Woods offers a welcoming community vibe that appeals to families and professionals alike. One of the standout features of this neighborhood is its proximity to a variety of outdoor spaces, including the beautiful Eno River State Park, perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature. The community itself is peaceful, making it a great spot for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle but still have access to city amenities.

Preston Woods is also conveniently close to some of Durham’s best attractions. Just a short drive northwest will take you to the lively Downtown Durham area, where you’ll find an array of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Whether you’re craving farm-to-table dining, craft breweries, or live music venues, downtown has something for everyone. Additionally, the American Tobacco Campus, a revitalized historic district, offers office spaces, eateries, and event venues, making it a popular hangout spot for locals. This close access to downtown ensures that residents of Preston Woods can enjoy a balanced lifestyle – peaceful neighborhood living with a vibrant urban scene just minutes away.

Families moving to Preston Woods will appreciate the well-regarded schools in the area, which are part of the Durham Public School system. Plus, the neighborhood’s safety and community-oriented atmosphere make it ideal for those looking to settle down. Shopping centers and grocery stores are conveniently nearby, so daily errands are never a hassle. If you enjoy community events, keep an eye out for neighborhood gatherings and local farmers’ markets that foster a strong sense of belonging among residents. Overall, Preston Woods is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Durham’s natural beauty, community spirit, and urban convenience.

In Preston Woods, 30% 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 only 30% 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.

Preston Woods 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 330 residents, Preston Woods 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.

Preston Woods has a population density of 3,316, 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 36, 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 Preston Woods 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 Preston Woods, the median home price is about $339,660, 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 Preston Woods 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 $1,480, 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 Preston Woods. 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 Preston Woods 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.