Clayton, NC Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Clayton, NC: What You Need to Know

Clayton is a suburb of Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina. The town touts itself as a crossroads community offering growth and opportunity. 

Job Opportunities

Clayton (population: 24,887) is strategically close to the Triangle Research Park in Durham, one of the country’s most important high-tech research and development centers. Over 10% of all biopharmaceutical jobs in North Carolina are located in Clayton. Top employers include Grifols Therapeutics, Novo Nordisk Pharmaceutical, and Bayer Environmental Science. Major employers in the manufacturing industry include Coca-Cola, Smithfield Packing Company, and Caterpillar. Clayton’s partnership with Johnston County and North Carolina State University provides advanced training for prospective biopharma employees through the Workforce Development Center.

Local History

The area was originally called Stallings Station because it was the site of an inn and way station owned by Isaac and Sarah Stallings. In 1856, the federal government opened a post office near Stallings Station, and named it Clayton. The town was chartered in 1869. Historians are uncertain whether Clayton was named after U.S. Senator John Middleton Clayton of Delaware or a traveler named John Draper Clayton. The latter used to set up camp in town when he traveled through the region to sell his tobacco during the antebellum years.

Cost of Living

Clayton’s proximity to major employers is one of its assets. You can throw affordability into the bargain, with a cost of living rate and housing cost that are 5% and 18.6% lower than the national average respectively. The median gross rent is $1,083. The not-so-good news: food cost is 14.8% higher than the national average. Taxes are simple in North Carolina, which levies a flat rate of 5.25% in income tax and a base sales tax rate of 4.75%. 

Know Your Neighborhoods

Clayton, located in Johnston County, boasts of beautiful buildings and neighborhoods in its Historic District downtown. Residents praise their hometown’s diverse population and safe environment. It’s small, but it has everything anyone can possibly need, including good schools. Archer Lodge and Cleveland Township, both a short drive from Clayton, have comparable schools. 

Shopping Local

Downtown Clayton is a popular destination for people looking for unique gifts, vintage clothing, and eclectic furniture and house décor. Looking for national retailers? You’ll find them at White Oak Crossing in nearby Garner. Head over to Carolina Premium Outlets in Smithfield, 13 miles away, for some serious retail therapy at more than 80 stores.