Founded in 1906, Zebulon is Wake County’s easternmost town, fostered by an attitude of independence and community pride, embodying their motto of The Town of Friendly People. “Everyone treats you with genuine compassion here,” says Shannon Baxter, Zebulon’s town commissioner. “A lot of folks say it reminds them of a small town they grew up in – it’s nice that for so many people, our sweet little town is nostalgic. It’s a great place to be from and a great place to be at.” According to the United States Census Bureau, it’s estimated that Zebulon had a population of about 9,400 in 2023, a 36% increase from 2020, when the population was around 6,900. “We’re almost growing faster than the town can keep up with,” says Erica Adams, a Zebulon resident and realtor with eXp Realty. “Especially in terms of housing.”
Lots of comfortable outdoor seating in Downtown Zebulon
There are historic buildings in downtown Zebulon.
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A long-standing town celebrating the contemporary
Properties around the downtown Zebulon area tend to be older, featuring classic styles like minimal traditional and ranch-style homes, while more recent developments have been constructed in the outer areas. These newer subdivisions tend to be contemporary, featuring new traditional and bi-level homes, with townhouses dotting themselves into the landscape. “In Zebulon, we could afford to get a detached single-family house,” Adams says. “On our same budget, closer to Raleigh, we may not have been able to get a house or could only get one that needed a lot more work. Our money went a lot further and we had more options here.” Those options may include having more land. The median price for a single-family home is around $330,000. “That $300,000 to $500,000 range is where a lot of first-time home buyers’ price point may be,” Adam says. “Zebulon is one of the best places to come for that, and they can’t hardly build them fast enough.”
There are new townhouse neighborhoods in Zebulon.
There are colonial styled homes on large lots in Zebulon.
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Exploring the local business of downtown Zebulon
Downtown Zebulon has a variety of unique shops and restaurants, such as the bespoke artisan TK MacLellan & Co. Bagpipe Makers. “We’re actively revitalizing downtown, and it’s working. Businesses are coming, and it’s starting to thrive again,” Baxter says. “I’m a beekeeper, and I started a collaboration with the owner of Olde Raleigh Distillery for barrel-aged honey bourbon. He’s won a ton of awards, and it’s so popular – but that’s just an example of the kind of interconnectedness you can get here.” The town also has a few fast-food chains and grocery options, but residents may choose to travel to neighboring towns for retail. “I grocery shop in the town over, Wendell, at the Publix,” Adams says. “Or Wegmans in Wake Forest. Week to Week, I travel 15-20 minutes to do my grocery run.”
There are many stores and restaurants in downtown Zebulon.
There is indoor and outdoor seating at Olde Raleigh Distillery in Zebulon.
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Candy Cane Lane and summer concerts
When it comes to events, Zebulon always has something going on. “We’ve got daily, weekly and annual events, all run throughout the community by several organizations. For big events, we try to do something each quarter,” Baxter says. “Candy Cane Lane in the winter, concert series in the summer. We’ll do movies outdoors in the park and food trucks will come in and trunk-or-treat at the community center. We want things to be going on year-round.”
Part of A-rated Wake County Schools
Wake County Schools earns an A overall on Niche and serves most of the town, but school zones vary. “In some parts of the borders of Zebulon, you can be zoned for Johnston County Schools,” Adams says of the B-plus-rated school district. Students can apply to attend other schools in Wake County Schools, like the public charter school B-rated East Wake Academy from kindergarten through 12th grade. “East Wake High is a magnet school, and they’re trying to turn the school around and improve it,” Adams says. “But it’s just not all the way there yet. Same thing with Zebulon Middle School.”
Zebulon Middle School offers a Gifted and Talented program in Zebulon.
There is a large soccer field at Zebulon Middle School in Zebulon.
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Indoor and outdoor fun at Zebulon Community Park
Zebulon has four well-maintained parks and the Beaverdam Creek Greenway. At 47 acres, Zebulon Community Park is the largest, featuring sports fields, playgrounds, a walking trail and an 18-hole disc golf course. The park is also home to the Zebulon Community Center, which offers classes and programs for all ages in anything from sports and foreign languages to watercolor painting and martial arts. “If you’re not necessarily near the parks, you may be in a subdivision that provides those amenities,” Adams says. “That’s a plus for families in some of the larger master-planned communities.” Zebulon was the former home of the Carolina Mudcats minor league baseball team. The team will be based in nearby Wilson starting in the 2026 season, and the fate of Zebulon’s Five County Stadium is currently up in the air.
Zebulon Community Park offers great outdoor sport activities in Zebulon.
There are playgrounds for children at Zebulon Community Park in Zebulon.
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Exploring nearby Raleigh and the East Coast
Zebulon sits about 22 miles east of Raleigh, about a 25-minute drive, right on the edge of Wake County. Nearby roadways like Highway 264 make for a direct route into the city, and Interstate 95 for travel up and down the East Coast. With a lack of public transportation, residents need a car to get around most of Zebulon, but there is a walkable downtown area. “I can walk to downtown,” Adams says. “I feel safe walking at 6 p.m., going to a local bar and walking home.”
Lower than average CAP Index crime score
Zebulon has a CAP Index score of 3 compared to the national average of 4. In 2023, the Zebulon Police Department created the Community Advocacy & Resource Enhancement unit to help juveniles impacted by crime and violence. The program is the first of its kind in North Carolina. Like the majority of the state, Zebulon experiences all four seasons.
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On average, homes in Zebulon, NC sell after 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Zebulon, NC over the last 12 months is $359,000, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming custom-built ranch nestled in a peaceful Zebulon setting! This well-maintained home features a beautiful kitchen, hardwood floors, high ceilings, and an open, inviting layout. Wood laminate flooring in the bedrooms and ceramic tile in the bathrooms and laundry room provide both style and durability. The spacious primary suite offers double vanities, a walk-in shower, and walk-in closets.
Experience the quality of this custom-built new construction home! Designed with flexibility in mind, this ranch also has a large bonus & huge walk-in storage on the 2nd floor! Screened-in porch & patio ideal for relaxing or entertaining! 9' ceilings on main level and upstairs bonus. A generous .71-acre lot which can accommodate a pool!! Additional features include 30 year Architectural shingles,
Pristine, move-in ready ranch in Autumn Lakes subdivision in Zebulon. Open concept, split bedroom floor plan. Kitchen features granite countertops, soft close cabinet doors, and refrigerator conveys. Spacious primary suite with large walk-in closet and generously-sized bath. Enjoy the community trails winding around the neighborhood ponds, big kid & toddler playgrounds, picnic pavilion, and dog
Seller offering $10K use as you choose closing cost incentives!! Welcome to your private retreat in Zebulon! Nestled on approximately 2.5 picturesque acres in the desirable Pilot Ridge subdivision, this beautifully built 2023 home offers the perfect blend of modern design, comfort, and peaceful countryside living. Step inside to discover a bright, open floor plan designed for both everyday living
Built in 1960 and set on a one-acre homesite, this thoughtfully restored mid-century ranch preserves the architectural character that defines its era while introducing updates designed for modern living. The layout is anything but ordinary. Original pocket doors create flexible living spaces that easily adapt as a home office, guest room, studio, or additional living area. The updated kitchen
Updated and beautifully refreshed, nestled on 0.76 acres - 939 Cheves is move-In Ready! No HOA or covenants. Rent and lease/option rent to own terms are also available! Welcome to 939 Cheves Rd -- blending modern finishes with comfortable, everyday living. This delightful 3-bed, 1-bath residence offers 1,062 sq. ft. of thoughtfully renovated space and plenty of outdoor room to enjoy. Step inside
LOOKING FOR LOWER ELECTRIC BILLS? THIS is the HOUSE for YOU! Recent electric bills have been averaging less than $25 a month! This meticulously maintained & sitting on a spacious 1.07-acre lot, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and efficiency. From the inviting front porch to the private patio out back, there's plenty of space to relax and room for a pool
Welcome to the Fontana plan. This 3-bedroom floor plan offers plenty of room and options to suit your needs. Enter through the front porch and into the foyer, where you are greeted by the sizeable family room, open to the kitchen. Choose to upgrade to a gourmet kitchen, which features a large island, kitchen backsplash, and large pantry, perfect for any chef. Opt for an optional deck or screened
Beautifully maintained townhome conveniently located just off Hwy 64 in Zebulon, offering easy access to Raleigh and surrounding areas! This move-in ready home features a desirable first-floor primary suite complete with an en suite bath offering a separate shower, relaxing soaker tub, tile flooring, tiled shower, and a spacious walk-in closet. The inviting eat-in kitchen opens to vaulted living
Welcome to 7132 Trappers Ct in Zebulon -- a beautiful property offering the perfect blend of space, privacy, and country living while still being conveniently located to Raleigh, Wendell, and surrounding areas. Situated on a spacious lot, this home provides plenty of room to spread out and enjoy peaceful living both inside and out. The thoughtfully designed floor plan features spacious living
Beautiful 1.6-acre wooded lot in Zebulon! This private parcel offers a peaceful, natural setting ideal for a custom home or weekend retreat. Mature trees provide excellent privacy while still allowing flexibility for future clearing or building. Conveniently located near downtown Zebulon, shopping, dining, and local amenities, with easy access to major roads. Enjoy the perfect balance of
The Badin is a four-bedroom floor plan with the option to add an In-Law suite downstairs. Enjoy gathering with family and friends in this open-concept home which features a large great room that flows right into the kitchen. A 9-foot island and plenty of counter space will please the chef and a formal dining room is perfect for serving up family meals. Upstairs, the large owner's suite offers an
Welcome home to this beautifully maintained 5-bedroom, 3-bath home offering plenty of space to live, work, and entertain. The inviting family room showcases a stunning fireplace feature wall, creating a warm and stylish focal point. The spacious kitchen includes granite countertops and an oversized walk-in pantry for exceptional storage. Enjoy the convenience of a laundry and mudroom combination,
Mid-Century Charm Meets the Ultimate Detached Workshop! Looking for character, total move-in readiness, and the rare space to actually pursue your passions? Situated on a prime corner lot, this unique mid-century gem blends classic aesthetic beauty—hello, gorgeous stone façade—with major 2023 updates. The Standout Features: The Ultimate Garage/Workshop: A massive, 35' x 23' detached garage that
This inviting ranch home offers comfortable living with a functional open layout. The kitchen opens seamlessly to the living room and features stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, modern shaker cabinets, and a large island--perfect for entertaining. Luxury vinyl plank flooring flows throughout the main living areas, with carpeted bedrooms providing added comfort. Bathrooms have been
Experience stunning peaceful country living with the convenience of city amenities at this exceptional rental situated on over a private acre (separate lease for over 10 acres available). Surrounded by mature trees, this one-of-a-kind property offers abundant space, privacy, and beautiful natural surroundings while remaining just minutes from shopping, restaurants, schools, major highways, and
Welcome to Shepard Greene, an affordable and high-quality apartment community exclusively for those 55 years and older. Located in the heart of Zebulon, NC, our community offers a range of amenities to enhance your living experience. From our on-site maintenance and laundry facilities to our fitness center and media room, we have everything you need to live comfortably. Plus, with housing
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $55 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Beautiful, pet-friendly home coming soon! Apply now, Move-In is available on or after the listed date. Upon approval, $500 reservation deposit to reserve (applied to security deposit and/or refundable). Application fee: $55 per adult. Security Deposit: one month?s rent. Pet fees: $250 + $40/mo per pet. Some homes may include pool ($150/mo), septic ($15/mo), and/or HOA fees; other fees may apply.
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Pre-lease this home now with Tricon Pre-Lease Guarantee. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,243 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living,
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $1934.70. That covers your base rent, $1795.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Internet
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
Coming soon - this home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. This home is professionally managed by Tricon, dedicated to creating exceptional rental experiences. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.0 bathrooms, and approximately 1,096 square feet, this well-maintained home offers a high standard of rental living, supported by a team that puts residents first. As a
Please note, our homes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and are not reserved until the holding fee agreement is signed and the holding fee is paid by the primary applicant.Coming soon! This home is currently being enjoyed by another resident but will be available soon. Please respect their privacy and do not disturb. You can complete the application process and reserve
Welcome to your dream home! Step inside this pet-friendly home featuring modern finishings and a layout designed with functionality in mind. Enjoy the storage space found in the kitchen and closets as well as the spacious living areas and natural light throughout. Enjoy outdoor living in your yard, perfect for gathering, relaxing, or gardening!Take advantage of the incredible location,
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