This central North Carolina textile town is now a growing commuter city
Graham is a city riding central North Carolina’s wave of growth. Sitting just east of the larger city of Burlington, Graham is in an attractive location. It’s nearly equal distance between the booming Research Triangle of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill and the rising Piedmont Triad of Greensboro, Winston-Salem and High Point, drawing in commuters looking for a small-town atmosphere. “A lot of what you see on TV whenever you see your Hallmark towns, Graham embodies that,” says Assistant City Manager Aaron Holland, referring to the city’s charming downtown square where an old-fashioned drugstore sits next to a lively bar and arcade.
“Graham, in the last 10 to 15 years, has started to change,” says Holland. “Up to that point, we were mostly longtime families, but we’ve become more transient. We’re seeing an influx of younger people and young families.” According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Graham’s population was roughly 14,000 in 2010. That number now surpasses 18,000. A repurposed hosiery mill nods to the city’s history as a textile town. Manufacturing remains a major industry today.
Established in 1851, Graham is a town in North Carolina.
Wrike Drugs, located in downtown Graham, is a local favorite.
1/2
From century-old homes to brand-new builds
The median price for a single-family home is around $350,000, less than the national median of about $400,000. Historic cottages, Cape Cods and bungalows line the tree-shaded blocks hugging downtown Graham. Brick ranch-style homes stretch out on grassy lots throughout the city. Craftsman-inspired Modern Transitional homes and townhouses fill newly developed subdivisions on the city’s southern and eastern edges.
Graham experiences four distinct seasons and can be impacted by tropical weather during the Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs from June through November. Flooding is possible with the Haw River to the east and creeks throughout the area.
The introduction of new traditional homes is contributing to Graham's growth.
In Graham, a cottage-style home is situated on a spacious lot.
1/2
Shopping small in Court Square
The Alamance County Courthouse stands tall in Graham’s city center, a nationally registered historic district often called Courthouse Square. Colorful murals with positive messages brighten longstanding brick storefronts in this downtown area, home to coffee shops and boutique businesses. From Salvadoran and Mexican cuisine to American fare, the city’s restaurant scene is diverse. But the barbecue from Smokehouse at Steve's draws in foodies from around the region. Grocery and pharmacy chains dot South Main Street, but bigger retailers are a short drive into Burlington. The Tanger Outlets, hosting over two dozen name-brand stores, is less than 10 miles away in Mebane.
The Alamance County Courthouse serves as the centerpiece in downtown Graham.
Annual Downtown Graham Pumpkin Bash and a beloved second-run theater
The heart of Graham turns into a citywide Halloween party for the annual Downtown Graham Pumpkin Bash. As the biggest event of the year, it fills the downtown blocks with thousands of costumed trick-or-treaters who go from vendor to vendor, adding to their candy hauls. The city is bringing back Arts Around the Square in May 2025 for the first time in about two decades. The street festival-style event creates a space for area artists and musicians to share their work with the community.
Downtown Graham anchors the local creative scene. Along with hosting concerts in the Graham Amphitheater, it’s home to the Alamance Arts organization. Film buffs regularly visit Graham Cinema. “What I love the most is that you’re able to watch something that was in theaters a couple of months ago, or they’re showing ‘E.T.’,” Holland says.
The Alamance Arts organization sponsors vibrant sculptures showcasing Graham's love for art.
Graham Cinema presents the latest movie releases for your entertainment.
1/2
Child-friendly adventures at Graham Regional Park
City parks range from expansive green spaces to small neighborhood playgrounds and sports-focused facilities. Dense woods hug Graham Regional Park, where a paved multi-use path loops around a youth challenge course and zipline. Down the street from Graham High School, Bill Cooke Park is the destination for tennis and baseball. Several access points allow outdoor adventurers to get out on the Haw River, which is popular for kayaking, while those who love to fish visit Graham-Mebane Lake, a municipal reservoir a few miles outside the city. The Challenge Golf Club offers a public 18-hole course over rolling hills.
Friends from Graham relish a sunny afternoon at Regional Park.
The Haw River near Graham is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking.
1/2
The Alamance-Burlington School System and a private school in town
The Alamance-Burlington School System serves Graham and receives an overall rating of B from Niche. The district has more than 20,000 students learning in its 38 schools. Graham is home to Alamance Christian School, a B-rated private school. Alamance Community College’s Carrington-Scott campus is in town, offering associate’s degrees and workforce training.
Alamance Community College in Graham boasts a contemporary campus.
The Alamance-Burlington School System, serving Graham, earns a B rating from Niche.
1/2
Commuting between the Triad and the Triangle
Interstate 40 courses through Graham, which commuters use to reach Greensboro, about 25 miles west, and Durham, roughly 30 miles east. Both cities host international airports offering nonstop flights to destinations such as Washington, D.C., New York and Miami. Link Transit buses provide service around town and to cities across Alamance County. While Graham is primarily car-dependent, the city is investing in pedestrian infrastructure downtown as part of the 2024 Graham Pedestrian Plan. “We’re going to have some flashing beacons and improve the look of the brick crosswalks. We’re forward-thinking but also incorporating the historic nature of the area,” Holland says.
Written By
DeeVa Payne
Photography Contributed By
Scott Davis
Video By
Kevin Carter
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Renee Raines,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Graham, NC sell after 69 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Graham, NC over the last 12 months is $339,990, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Model Home now for Sale, own this darling home with builder incentive of $10,000 with blinds and fridge provided by builder making this a move in dream for you! Primary on main level with ensuite. Too big of a deal to pass up!Just minutes off of Highway 54, I 85 and I 40 for an easy commute to the Triangle or Triad areas of NCBe sure to watch the video of the model!
Let's get you out of renting and into home ownership with a BUILDER INCENTIVE OF $15,OOO!plus Builder is providing entire home with blinds and a French Door Fridge Live close to work and enjoy small-town charm! Conveniently located within driving distance of Chapel Hill, Graham, Mebane, Burlington, Carrboro, and Durham, this inviting community offers comfort and convenience. Just minutes to
$10,000 BUILDER INCENTIVE TO BUYER! Builder is providing entire home with blinds and a French Door FridgeLive close to work and enjoy small-town charm! Conveniently located within driving distance of Chapel Hill, Graham, Mebane, Burlington, Carrboro, and Durham, this inviting community offers comfort and convenience. Just minutes to shopping, medical facilities, and restaurants. This home
Experience the charm of country living in this like-new home built in 2024, nestled on a spacious 0.75-acre homesite in peaceful Salem Woods. Located less than 2 miles from Historic Saxapahaw Village, you'll enjoy easy access to local dining, live music, and small-town charm, all while being just an easy ~20-minute commute to Chapel Hill. Large homesites and mature trees create a private, serene
This is the home you have been looking for. Updated 3 bedroom home with large bedrooms convenient to downtown Graham, Bill Cooke Park and I40/85. Enjoy the outdoor living area along with newer paint and floor coverings all nestled on a large city lot. Priced to sell. Make an offer today to own this wonderful home.
Beautifully updated brick ranch with detached garage/workshop on a spacious 0.43-acre lot! The heart of the home is the gorgeous kitchen, beautifully remodeled in 2022 with updated appliances. One level with spacious living room, den, dining room and eat-in kitchen. Turn-key home features a newer roof (2022 - main house, 2026 covered deck), HVAC (2022), water heater (2023), gutters (2023),
BEST value in Alamance county! Welcome to a beautiful, like new maintained 4-bedroom (with office!), 2.5-bathroom home offering the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and space! Step inside to an inviting open floor plan, where natural light fills the living and dining areas. The modern kitchen boasts sleek countertops, stainless steel appliances, and ample cabinet space, making it a chef's
Welcome to this beautifully renovated home in a prime Graham location--offering incredible value under $250,000! Whether you're a first-time buyer ready to stop renting or an investor looking for your next opportunity, this home checks all the boxes. With approximately 1,126 square feet, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home features a flexible layout designed for modern living. Enjoy a cozy breakfast nook
The Indiana is an end-unit townhome offering 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, including a primary suite on the main level. The second floor features two additional bedrooms, a full bath, a large loft, and a flex room suitable for office or storage use. Open kitchen with bar-height counter, dining area, and adjacent great room. One-car garage.
The Pennsylvania is a thoughtfully designed two-story townhome offering 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The spacious primary suite features a private sitting area—ideal for relaxing at the end of the day. An open great room flows seamlessly into the kitchen and dining area, with the option to add a cozy corner fireplace for added comfort and style. Complete with a one-car garage, this home blends
Welcome to the Kingsport, a beautifully designed two-story single-family home that epitomizes modern living. With 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, this residence offers a generous layout that maximizes both space and comfort. The heart of the home is an open kitchen, complete with a central island and pantry, which seamlessly flows into a spacious great room. This inviting area is perfect for
Great opportunity to possibly build your dream home down the road from Hwy 87 south. There is a 3 bedroom improvement permit from the county on file. Make an offer today before this one is gone.
Crescent Oaks Apartments offers comfortable apartment living in the heart of Graham, NC, just minutes from downtown Graham, Alamance Crossing, shopping, and dining. Our spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes feature modern finishes including white cabinetry with black hardware, granite-inspired countertops, stainless steel appliances in select homes, breakfast bars, and private patios or
Located on 115 Florence st in Graham. Eat-in kitchen with pantry. Living room. Range/refrigerator included. Community has dumpster. All electric. Walking distance to grocery/shopping/restaurants and less than one mile from Interstate I-40. $50 Trash, Pest, Landscaping, Water.Unit amenitiesAir conditioner, Cable, Ceiling fan, Hardwood floors, Heat, Microwave, Mirrors, Pet friendly,
Welcome to Watercourse Apartment Homes – elevate your lifestyle in the heart of Burlington, NC. Conveniently located near I-40 and I-85, our community places you just minutes from Greensboro, Mebane, Chapel Hill, and Durham, offering the perfect blend of accessibility and serene living.Discover our thoughtfully designed 1, 2, and 3-bedroom open floor plans, featuring gourmet kitchens with granite
Welcome to Ivey Glen, a vibrant apartment community nestled in Graham, North Carolina. Our recently renovated two-bedroom apartment homes feature spacious floor plans, private patios, or balconies, and fresh, inviting finishes designed for the comfort you deserve. Enjoy a variety of community amenities, including two sparkling swimming pools, a fully equipped fitness center, and a
Located on 115 Florence st in Graham. Eat-in kitchen with pantry. Living room. Range/refrigerator included. Community has dumpster. All electric. Walking distance to grocery/shopping/restaurants and less than one mile from Interstate I-40. $50 Trash, Pest, Landscaping, Water.Unit amenitiesAir conditioner, Cable, Ceiling fan, Hardwood floors, Heat, Microwave, Mirrors, Pet friendly,
Welcome to Waterside Apartment Homes – the perfect location for your lifestyle. This luxury gated community is ideally situated near I-40 and I-85, placing you just minutes from Burlington, Greensboro, Mebane, Chapel Hill, and Durham, offering unmatched convenience and accessibility.Our 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartment homes feature open floor plans, gourmet kitchens with granite countertops,
Elevate 54 is a uniquely designed, active lifestyle community located in Graham, NC. Located in the heart of Graham, you'll have easy access to the finest dining and shopping Graham has to offer! With luxurious amenities including our vibrant swimming pool, outdoor fire pit, resident e-lounge, and more; Elevate 54 has something for everyone!
Experience unparalleled living at Elevate Haw River, where luxury, comfort, and convenience converge seamlessly. Our premier community features an array of top-tier amenities, from a resort-style pool to a cutting-edge fitness center and even a dedicated pet park. With expansive floor plans and contemporary design, sophistication permeates every corner. Nestled in a prime location, residents
Under 2 miles from downtown Graham, The Ivey Ridge Townhomes are conveniently located to shopping and dining. We are located just across the street from Food Lion. Great location for a new home!
The Meadows of Graham! Offering 1, 2, and 3 bedroom homes!Indulge in the epitome of luxury living at the Meadows of Graham Apartments, your premier destination for brand-new, upscale residences in Graham, North Carolina. Our meticulously designed one, two, and three bedroom apartments offer up to 1200 square feet of luxurious living space, exuding sophistication at every corner. Step into
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
