Wake Forest, North Carolina: A Thriving Market for Investors

Wake Forest, North Carolina, is quickly emerging as one of the most attractive suburban markets in the Southeast. Just 30 minutes north of Raleigh, the city combines a highly educated population, strong household incomes, and strategic investment in infrastructure — all while offering livability that appeals to both families and professionals.

Wake Forest, North Carolina

Demographics & Affluence

Wake Forest’s demographics speak to its strength as an investment market:

This combination of affluence and education provides a stable foundation for property demand and rental strength.

Education & Innovation

Wake Forest is part of the Wake County Public School System, rated A by Niche and ranked among the top districts in North Carolina. Families moving to the area can count on excellent K-12 options.

The city also stands out as an innovation hub. The Wireless Research Center (WRC) supports startups and defense/AI programs with advanced R&D in wireless, IoT, and 5G technologies — a unique differentiator for a suburban community.

Economic Development

Investment continues to flow into Wake Forest through commercial and mixed-use projects:

  • Grove 98, a 78-acre Wegmans-anchored mixed-use development, was recognized as one of the Triangle’s top new projects.
  • The Wake Forest Exchange, a 27-acre commercial and office project, is expected to create more than 500 jobs and generate $350,000+ in new annual tax revenue.
  • A new $13.2 million federal grant was awarded to develop a Mobility Hub with an intermodal terminal as part of the S-Line passenger rail project, improving connectivity across the Triangle region.

These developments highlight Wake Forest’s balance of lifestyle amenities, infrastructure growth, and job creation.

Wake Forest

Why Investors Should Pay Attention

For real estate investors, Wake Forest offers the rare combination of:

  • High household incomes
  • A well-educated workforce
  • Top-rated schools
  • Ongoing infrastructure and development investment
  • A growing population tied into the broader Raleigh-Durham economy

Quick Snapshot: Wake Forest by the Numbers

Key Market Indicators

Indicator Value / Rank
Median Household Income ~$120,777
Poverty Rate ~3%
Residents w/ Bachelor’s+ Degree ~58%
Wake County School District Rank #4 of 115 in NC
Major Upcoming Projects Grove 98, Wake Forest Exchange, Mobility Hub

Investor Takeaways (At a Glance)

  • 📈 Strong economic base – High incomes, low poverty, and educated residents
  • 🏫 Top-tier schools – Wake County schools rated among the best in NC
  • 🏢 Active development pipeline – Retail, office, and infrastructure investments underway
  • 🚉 Improving connectivity – Federal funding for the Mobility Hub and rail access
  • 🌆 Lifestyle + proximity – A thriving suburban option within the booming Triangle

Coming Soon: The Weller - An Investment Opportunity in Wake Forest

Coming Soon: An Investment Opportunity in Wake Forest - The WellerWake Forest’s blend of strong household incomes, top-rated schools, and a thriving innovation economy make it one of the most attractive rental markets in the Triangle. Realbricks is preparing to list a brand-new single-family home in this high-growth community — giving investors a chance to participate in its momentum.

Wake Forest, North Carolina

Property Highlights

  • Property Type: Single-family home
  • Size: ~2,100 sq. ft.
  • Layout: 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2-car garage
  • Construction: New build (completion late 2025) with modern finishes
  • Energy Efficiency: Insulated, efficient HVAC, Low-E windows
  • Smart Home Features: Smart thermostat, doorbell camera, and keyless entry
  • Outdoor Features: Covered patio, landscaped yard
  • Projected Rent: $2,150–$2,250/month (est.)
  • Estimated Dividend Yield: ~4.7% (est.)
  • Purchase Price: $379,990
  • Timeline: Completion late 2025; leasing expected within 30 days after completion

Disclaimer: Investing in real estate involves risks, including the potential loss of capital. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Investors should perform their own research and consult with financial professionals before making investment decisions.