Living in Apex, NC

Apex Union Depot in Apex, North Carolina in 2025
Photo: Apex Union Depot 2025 by Pithon314, CC0

Apex is in western Wake County, and its historic downtown along Salem Street is one of my favorite places to walk. I have helped clients buy and sell in Apex and have held open houses here, so I know the area from real time spent in its homes and streets.

Where Apex Is and Getting Around

Apex is southwest of Raleigh and south of Cary. U.S. 1 and U.S. 64 pass through the area, N.C. 55 runs north and south, and the N.C. 540 toll road is close by. Commute times vary by where in town you live.

A Short History of Apex

Apex grew around a railroad station chartered in 1854, though the first train did not pass through until 1869. The town was incorporated in 1873. Its name comes from being the highest point on a 30-mile stretch of the Chatham Railroad, where steam engines stopped to take on water, according to the Town of Apex. The town also notes that rain falling on one side of Salem Street flows to the Neuse River, while rain on the other side flows to the Cape Fear River.

Parks and Outdoor Space

The Town of Apex runs a parks system with community parks, greenways and recreation facilities. See Apex Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources for the current list.

Downtown and Things to Do

Downtown Apex was designated a historic district in 1994 and is described by the town as one of the most intact turn-of-the-century railroad towns in the area. The historic depot is a Wake County landmark, and the 1912 town hall now operates as The Halle Cultural Arts Center, per the Town of Apex and the Apex 150th history.

Official Apex and Wake County Links

Schools

Public schools here are part of the Wake County Public School System. Attendance zones can change, so I always suggest confirming a specific address with the district’s own address lookup tool before you make a decision.

Buying or Selling in Apex

I have helped clients buy and sell in Apex and held open houses here, and a walk down Salem Street is still one of my favorite things to do. I would love to put that experience to work for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apex

Where can I find official town information?

See the official links above. The town and county websites are the best source for permits, utilities, zoning and current projects.

Thinking about a move to Apex? Let’s talk.

Where Memories Begin and Futures Grow