Looking for more space and value near Raleigh without giving up Triangle access? Zebulon offers a lower price point, active new construction, and fast population growth that is reshaping amenities and services. If you want data you can trust and practical guidance on how to shop here, you’re in the right place. You’ll learn what homes cost now, how the market moves, commute realities, schools and parks context, and smart tactics to buy with confidence. Let’s dive in.

Why Zebulon is on the radar

Zebulon is one of Wake County’s fastest-growing towns. According to U.S. Census QuickFacts, the estimated population reached 10,505 by July 1, 2024, which is roughly a 52 percent jump since 2020. That kind of growth signals expanding services, more housing options, and ongoing town planning to keep up with demand. You’ll feel small-town character with rising convenience.

Location is a win if you want Raleigh access at a lower cost. Zebulon sits about 22 to 25 miles east of downtown Raleigh, with a typical non-stop drive around 23 to 30 minutes in free-flow conditions. Peak times can run longer, so test your commute at your usual departure times to set realistic expectations.

Parks and programming are active, too. The town maintains multiple parks and a community center, and it continues investing in recreation and walkability under its long-range plans. That mix of open space and access appeals to many Triangle buyers.

• Population growth source: U.S. Census QuickFacts
• Commute estimate: TravelMath distance/time to Raleigh
• Amenities: Town of Zebulon Parks & Facilities

What homes cost in 2026

Public sources show a wide but consistent band for Zebulon prices right now. Zillow’s Home Value Index shows a typical home value around $336,675 as of late January 2026. Redfin’s January 2026 snapshot reports a median sold price near $298,000. Realtor.com focuses on the list side and showed a median listing price around $399,900 in December 2025.

Those differences are normal and reflect different methods: model-based values, sold prices, and list prices. They also use slightly different geographies, like town limits versus ZIP 27597, and small monthly sample sizes can swing the medians. Treat this as a mid-$200Ks to high-$300Ks median band, then verify the exact figures in the MLS for your specific search area and date.

• Zillow typical value: Zebulon ZHVI
• Redfin sold-price snapshot: Zebulon housing market
• Realtor listing metrics: Zebulon market overview

Days on market and inventory

Speed and supply depend on what you measure. Realtor.com reported about 273 active listings and roughly 83 days on market in December 2025. Redfin’s January 2026 sample showed a shorter median days on market near 45 days. The mix of new-build closings and smaller resale counts can skew monthly stats, so a 90 to 180-day MLS window is best for decisions.

Practically, you usually have more time to evaluate options here than in the hottest Wake County suburbs. Desirable subdivisions and quick-move-in new homes can still draw strong offers, but you can often compare, negotiate, and align closing timelines to your needs.

New construction vs. resale

New construction is a big story in Zebulon. You’ll see national and regional builders, plus local semi-custom teams, delivering price points that often start in the low $300Ks and rise into the $400Ks to $600Ks for larger homes and lots. Redfin’s new-construction feed recently showed dozens of options, including quick-move-in opportunities. In softer windows, builders may offer incentives like closing cost help or appliance packages, which can stretch your budget.

Resale offers variety and sometimes a lower entry price. In-town homes can come with character and manageable lots, while larger resale communities compete with new builds on space and value. Older homes may need system updates, so plan for inspections and realistic maintenance budgets.

• Explore active new builds: Redfin new construction in Zebulon

Commute and connectivity

If you need a daily Raleigh commute, Zebulon works for many buyers who can avoid peak surges or enjoy flexible schedules. The drive to downtown Raleigh is roughly 22 to 25 miles. Test your route in real time during the hours you care about to confirm both morning and evening performance.

Zebulon also sits on the US 64 and US 264 corridor associated with the future I-87 route. Regional corridor upgrades are long-term and roll out in phases, and not every segment is funded at once. Treat potential improvements as a future upside rather than a near-term guarantee, and check the current status when timing matters.

• Route context: I-87 and US 64/264 corridor overview

Schools, parks, and services

Wake County closely manages capacity in fast-growing areas. In late 2025 and early 2026, staff recommended an enrollment cap at Zebulon Elementary due to projected growth, and nearby schools are being monitored for capacity. If school assignment is important to you, confirm current boundaries and any planned changes during your home search.

Parks and recreation are a strength here. Zebulon maintains multiple parks, ballfields, and a community center, and continues to invest in greenways and programs. Local economic activity also supports housing demand over time, with employers and small-business growth in the area.

• School capacity update: Wake County enrollment cap reporting
• Parks and facilities: Town of Zebulon Parks

Investor snapshot

Rents for typical 3-bedroom homes in the 27597/Zebulon area often range around $1,700 to $2,000 per month depending on the product and month. That is generally lower than many northern Wake suburbs, which can help attract tenants seeking value. Use actual local comps and current lease data when underwriting.

If you pair Zillow’s typical value near $336,675 with asking rents around $1,800 to $1,970, you get a simple gross rent yield of roughly 6.4 to 7.0 percent before expenses. This is only an illustration. Real returns depend on taxes, insurance, HOA fees, maintenance, vacancy, financing, and management.

Key risk checks for any buyer include school assignment changes over time, property-level flood exposure, and HOA or impact fees in new communities. Run FEMA flood maps for any address you consider and get insurance quotes early if a home is near creeks or low areas. Confirm HOA dues and town fees so you know your true monthly costs.

• Rent trends: Zillow Rental Manager market trends for Zebulon
• Home value benchmark: Zebulon ZHVI

How to shop Zebulon like a pro

• Compare geographies. Check both town-only and ZIP 27597 comps. Public portals may mix boundaries, which explains price differences. Your final pricing should come from the local MLS.
• Work the new-build angle. Ask about current builder incentives and look for quick-move-in homes that may carry attractive terms along with firm timelines.
• Be strategic with resale. In-town homes can offer a lower entry price. Budget for system updates and use strong inspection contingencies to protect your upside.
• Confirm schools and timing. Wake County can adjust caps or boundaries as enrollment shifts. Verify assignments and any planned changes if schools matter to you.
• Check flood and insurance early. Review official flood maps for each address and price out insurance before you finalize your offer.
• Model your commute. Test routes to your exact worksite at multiple times, not just midday.
• Underwrite conservatively. Use current rent comps, realistic maintenance, and vacancy assumptions before you buy.

Your next step

Zebulon gives you Triangle access, fresh new-home options, and a price point that stretches your budget without sacrificing lifestyle. If you want owner-led advocacy, clear data, and a calm, concierge-style process from search to closing, we’re here to help. Reach out to the Saccoh Realty Team to map your strategy and schedule on-the-ground tours that fit your goals.

FAQs

What are typical home prices in Zebulon in 2026?

• Public sources show a wide band: Redfin’s median sold price is around $298K, Zillow’s typical value is about $336.7K, and Realtor.com’s median list price is near $399.9K, with exact numbers varying by method and area.

How fast are Zebulon homes selling compared to other Wake suburbs?

• Market speed varies by source and price point, but recent snapshots show roughly 45 to 83 days on market, which often gives you time to compare and negotiate compared with the most competitive suburbs.

Is new construction a big part of Zebulon’s market?

• Yes, builders are active with options often starting in the low $300Ks and moving into higher price points for larger homes and lots, and incentives may be available depending on timing and inventory.

What is the commute like from Zebulon to downtown Raleigh?

• The drive is about 22 to 25 miles and roughly 23 to 30 minutes in light traffic, though peak hours can be longer, so test your route at your normal times.

Are school assignments in Zebulon changing?

• Wake County monitors capacity and has discussed enrollment caps at certain schools, so if assignments matter to you, check current boundaries and any planned adjustments during your search.

What do typical Zebulon rents look like for a 3-bedroom?

• Recent rental data for the area often shows about $1,700 to $2,000 per month depending on the home and month, but verify with current local comps for accuracy.