Neighborhood guide

Apex

A genuinely historic downtown, Jordan Lake on the weekends, and the town motto — "The Peak of Good Living" — that residents will tell you is earned.

Where it is

Apex on the map

Apex lies southwest of Raleigh, between Cary and Holly Springs, with Jordan Lake just to the west.

Zoom and drag to explore; the shaded outline is the town limits.Open in Google Maps →

Apex got its name from being the highest point on the old Chatham Railroad line. Today it's better known for a Salem Street downtown that looks like a movie set, and for being one of the most sought-after addresses in the western Triangle.

The feel

Downtown Apex is the real thing — a National Register historic district of brick storefronts along Salem Street, with restaurants, a pub, ice cream, and the restored 1914 train depot. Around it, the town spreads into neighborhoods that range from older homes near downtown to large newer communities like Bella Casa and the developments along the Apex Peakway and toward New Hill.

Apex has grown quickly, and it shows in the new parks, roads, and shopping — Beaver Creek Commons and the surrounding retail on the US-64 side cover most everyday needs without a trip into Cary or Raleigh.

Getting around

US-64 and US-1 run through town, and NC-540 (the Triangle Expressway) connects the west side directly toward RTP. Research Triangle Park is commonly 20–30 minutes, downtown Raleigh about 25–30, and RDU airport about 20–25. Jordan Lake is a 15-minute drive west.

Things to do

Tyler's picks

Where I'd send you for dinner

  • Salem Street — start at the depot and walk; you'll find a pizzeria, a pub, and a coffee shop within two blocks.
  • Jordan Lake at sunset — not dinner, but the reason people pick Apex. Bring a picnic.
  • Beaver Creek Commons — the everyday-errand spot, with more restaurants than you'd expect.

Tyler to review and add his personal favorites before launch.

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Homes for sale in Apex

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The insider's list

Triangle market news. And the occasional restaurant tip.

A short email, once in a while — what's moving in the market, what's opening around town, and where to eat this weekend.