RALEIGH, NC — The Triangle region is cementing its place as a rising powerhouse in the technology industry, with Raleigh and Durham earning top rankings in a new study of emerging tech hubs. According to an analysis by CommercialCafe, Raleigh secured the third spot for overall performance in the tech industry, while Durham followed closely at seventh.
The study, based on data from sources like the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, highlights Raleigh’s impressive growth trajectory and its appeal as a destination for tech companies. Affordable living costs, an increasing number of companies relocating to the Research Triangle, and a robust pipeline of tech talent were key contributors to Raleigh’s high ranking.
Raleigh: A Tech City on the Rise
Raleigh shone in several categories:
•Tech Employment Density: With 78 out of every 1,000 workers in the metro area employed in tech, Raleigh ranked fourth in the nation.
•Technology Firms: Of every 1,000 companies registered in Raleigh, 40 operate in the tech sector, demonstrating the city’s growing role as a tech business magnet.
•Earnings: Raleigh’s median tech wage is $107,185 annually, earning it a fifth-place ranking in the study.
•Innovation: Between 2020 and 2024, 2,046 patents were approved in Raleigh, further solidifying its reputation as a hub of innovation.
Durham: Small but Mighty
Durham, often seen as Raleigh’s sister city in the Triangle, ranked seventh in the study, showcasing its own unique strengths. While the city has more tech companies than Raleigh, fewer workers reside in Durham. However, its median tech salary of $103,183 and 30% growth in the sector highlight its significant contributions to the region’s tech ecosystem.
The Triangle’s Competitive Edge
Raleigh and Durham are well-positioned in a competitive national landscape, with Washington, D.C., taking the top spot, followed by Austin, TX. While these cities boast the highest number of tech companies and workers, the Research Triangle stands out for its strategic advantages, including proximity to world-class research institutions and a thriving community of startups.
A Vision for the Future
As Raleigh continues to climb the ranks of America’s tech hubs, local leaders and business communities are optimistic about the city’s future. “Raleigh is proving that you don’t need to be Silicon Valley to make a global impact in technology,” said a spokesperson for a local tech coalition. “The Triangle offers an unparalleled combination of innovation, lifestyle, and opportunity.”
The data underscores what locals already know: the Triangle is a place where creativity and technology intersect. From patent approvals to competitive salaries, Raleigh and Durham are not just following the trends—they’re setting them.
As these cities continue to draw national attention, residents and businesses alike can take pride in their role in shaping a brighter future for the region and beyond.
Sources: CommercialCafe, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Bureau of Labor Statistics, WNCN
