With a combined #22 ranking for Prosperity, Durham is outclassing its peers with brains and a thriving opportunity economy. Home of Duke University, this is one of America’s top college towns, ranking #8 in our University subcategory and boasting an alumni list that needs few introductions, from Melinda Gates to Tim Cook. Today, its downtown is shaping up to match the university’s prestige: Since 2000, nearly $2 billion has poured into downtown Durham, which only measures less than a square mile. Meanwhile, the Triangle—the region comprising Durham, Raleigh and Chapel Hill—was second only to Austin for population growth from 2020 to 2024 at 10.2%, emerging from the pandemic stronger than other metros and growing every year since. What gives Bull City its pull? Opportunity, be it in the classroom or after graduation from big tech tenants like Google, Meta and IBM—all vying to snatch up top talent in a city ranked #4 in the nation for Educational Attainment. And while the housing prices are rising, Durham ranks a solid #59 in Housing Affordability—a bargain compared to coastal tech enclaves. With an ever-improving international airport (#37)—and an iconic taqueria, La Vaquita, slinging traditional carne asada—it’s easier to get to Durham than ever, and even easier to stay.