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Downtown, Garner,NC

Neighborhood Data
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If you're considering a move to Garner, NC, the Downtown area in the southeastern part of the city offers a charming and vibrant community that perfectly blends small-town appeal with modern conveniences. This neighborhood is known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly residents, making it a wonderful choice for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Living here means you'll be just a short drive away from the bustling heart of Raleigh, allowing easy access to big-city amenities while enjoying the peacefulness of a close-knit community.

One of the standout features of Downtown Garner is its delightful array of local attractions and community events. The Garner Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of concerts, theater productions, and cultural events throughout the year, providing entertainment options that bring the community together. Additionally, the Garner Veterans Memorial Park offers a serene green space perfect for weekend strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities. Food lovers will appreciate the diverse dining scene, featuring cozy cafes, family-owned restaurants, and popular eateries that serve up everything from Southern comfort food to international flavors.

For those who commute or frequently visit Raleigh’s city center, Downtown Garner is conveniently situated roughly 12 miles southeast of Downtown Raleigh, making it an ideal spot for balancing work and home life. The neighborhood’s accessibility is enhanced by well-maintained roads and public transportation options, ensuring that residents can easily enjoy the vibrant nightlife, shopping, and cultural experiences of the capital city without sacrificing the tranquility of their own neighborhood. Whether you're attracted by the community spirit or the convenient location, Downtown Garner is a fantastic choice for your next home.

Community Snapshot

Population 647
Density (People/sqml.) 1,505
Median Age 35.1
Married Couples
45%
45% of the population of Downtown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
26%
26% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

26% of the Downtown 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 26% 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

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Downtown 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 647 residents, Downtown is notably smaller than many other Garner 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 1,505 people per square mile, Downtown offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Garner 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 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 Downtown

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Downtown Crime Map

The Downtown 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

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Home Price $264,920
Median Rent $1,176
People/Household 2.6

Home Price Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 44% Own 56%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 45% After 2010 55%

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 Downtown, the median home price is about $264,920, 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 Downtown 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 $1,176, 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.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Full Bloom Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
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Raleigh Business Center
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts
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Garner Performing Arts Center
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

Shotmakers Sports Bar and Billiards
Bar
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ABC Store
Alcohol
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Groceries

Food Lion
Grocery Store
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ALDI
Grocery Store
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Parks

Garner Baseball Park
Park
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Garner Recreational Park
Park
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Shops

Hudson's Hardware & Outdoor Equipment
Home Improvement
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Mall
Mall
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Garner Rd at Creech Rd (Garner Recreational Park)
Bus Stop
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Aversboro Rd at Brooks Ave
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

FastMed Urgent Care
Clinic
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Rite Aid
Pharmacy
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Health Care

Bridges Family Life Center
Doctor
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Garner Family Practice
Doctor
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Safety

Samaritan Ambulance Service
Ambulance Station
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Garner Police Department
Police
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Vandora Springs Elementary
8317 Bryan Road, Garner, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Southeast Raleigh High
2600 Rock Quarry Road, Raleigh, NC
High School 9 - 12 School Score
East Garner Elementary
5545 Jones Sausage Road, Garner, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Timber Drive Elementary
1601 Timber Drive, Garner, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Creech Road Elementary
450 Creech Rd, Garner, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Aversboro Elementary
1605 Aversboro Rd, Garner, NC
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Garner High
8228 Hebron Church Road, Garner, NC
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Downtown combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Downtown can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $38,802
Household Income $70,556
Unemployment 6.0%

Income Breakdown

Downtown Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Downtown average around $70,556, 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 employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Downtown, the unemployment rate is 6%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Downtown Garner offers a charming blend of historic and modern attractions. Key highlights include the Garner Performing Arts Center, which hosts a variety of concerts and theater productions, and the beautiful Lake Benson Park, perfect for outdoor activities like walking, fishing, and picnics. Additionally, the Garner Farmers Market is a popular spot for fresh local produce and crafts, held seasonally in the heart of downtown.

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

Yes, Downtown Garner is known for its vibrant community events. One of the most popular is the Garner Festival, held annually in the fall, featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. There are also regular events like the monthly Gallery Walk, showcasing local artists, and seasonal holiday celebrations that bring residents together in the downtown area, fostering a strong sense of community.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Downtown Garner is conveniently located near major highways, including US Highway 70 and Interstate 40, providing easy access to Raleigh and other parts of the Triangle region. Public transit options include bus routes operated by GoRaleigh and GoTriangle, which connect Garner with neighboring cities and downtown Raleigh, making commuting and travel accessible for residents.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

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