Below you will find the pros and cons of purchasing a ranch home, as well as some background information on their history in the US. If you're just looking for our list of ranch/one story homes for sale please scroll down to the bottom of this page!
Ranch, rambler, rancher! Whatever name you know it by, it’s impossible to miss the characteristics of these one level homes - long, low roofline, asymmetrical design and open layouts, large windows, natural light, and exposed beams.
These quintessential American homes originated in California in the 1920s, combining Spanish colonial architecture used in the southwestern U.S. with modern design. As the trend moved across the country, different areas put their own regional facelift on the ranch style home.

Above: a one story ranch in Chapel Hill, NC
The exteriors of ranch homes are usually brick, wood, or stucco. They often feature sliding doors leading to a patio. The square footage varies widely, with some featuring expansive rooms and others keeping to a more compact design.
Ranch homes saw the height of their popularity from the 1940s through the 1970s. They were especially dominant post WWII thanks to the simplicity of their one level home design and an increasing preference towards suburbanization. As more traditional styles once again took hold in the 1960s, ranch homes began to decline in popularity.
The boom years of the 1980s led to a trend of having a room for everyone and everything; two-story or multi-level homes dominated the landscape. Recently, though, ranch homes have seen a resurgence in demand, both for existing homes as well as new builds. In the last few years, Trulia released a study showing North Carolina as one of four states where ranch style homes are the most common style.
Here are a few characteristics that can make ranch homes a great choice for the right buyer.
Long-term remodeling flexibility. Due to their original open space design, ranches offer greater flexibility in remodels. Bedrooms originally designated for children and teens can be easily converted to a home office or other flexible spaces for empty nesters.
Price and location. Ranch homes are the most affordable type of home in many markets, making them appealing to young buyers. Due to the age of the homes, many are located in well-established neighborhoods with mature trees. In the Raleigh/Durham area we have a lot of well-priced 1950s and 1960s brick ranchers.
One level convenience. For young families, it’s very handy to have laundry and bedrooms all one one floor. It’s also easier to monitor children on one level rather than two, or more. And ranch homes are great options for aging in place.
Maintenance and safety. No stairs! That traditional safety hazard for both the very young and the elderly doesn’t exist in a one level ranch home. Interior and exterior maintenance are much easier. Cleaning outside windows and painting? Much easier with a single story. And there’s no lugging a vacuum cleaner up the stairs! Finally, from a safety point of view, it’s easier to escape from a one-story home.
Finally, and just for fun, the very popular mid-century modern design style fits perfectly into the interior of many ranch homes.

A unique ranch style home with central patio and fountain located between Durham and Chapel Hill, NC
Lack of privacy. A one-story home means recognizing a potential loss of privacy as your windows are at eye level to the world. Having all the bedrooms on one floor can also lead to a lack of privacy, especially for parents of small children.
Maintenance costs. Sprawling one-story homes can be harder to heat and cool efficiently. And older homes are prone to needing more maintenance than newer ones, and ranches are no exception to that rule.
Smaller yards. Although many ranch homes are designed to have the indoor space flow into an outdoor patio, in general, the larger footprint on the lots for these homes usually means a smaller yard.
If you think a one story ranch home is ideal for you, you’re in luck! In Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, there are many neighborhoods with ranch-style homes.
In Raleigh, Cameron Village features ranch homes built in the 1940s-1950s. Many have been updated with modern upgrades and features. Cameron Village has easy access to the Village District, a shopping center of more than 100 stores and restaurants.
Other Raleigh neighborhoods with ranch homes include Wilmont, part of the West Raleigh Historic District and immediately adjacent to NC State University; Laurel Hills, which features wooded surroundings and rolling hills, with Crabtree Valley Mall just down the road on Glenwood Avenue; and two midtown Raleigh neighborhoods, Lakemont and Crestview, that are near to a variety of North Hills shopping and dining opportunities.
Hope Valley is one neighborhood in Durham to check out, a mature neighborhood with secluded, tree covered streets, equal distance (15 minutes) from UNC and Duke and 10 minutes from the Streets at Southpoint. Another good choice is Parkwood, which is one of Durham's earliest, larger neighborhoods, located only a few miles from Research Triangle Park.
Chapel Hill offers classic ranch homes and transitional modern styles in relatively newer developments (1990s-2000s), Briar Chapel and Governors Park. Briar Chapel offers a 55+ development, Encore at Briar Chapel, which features one level homes with unique designs, premium finishes, open layouts, and customization options galore.

1960s Ranch home in Duke Forest, a popular Durham neighborhood. 
1990s Ranch-style home in North Raleigh.
Below you will find the all of the one story / ranch homes for sale in the Triangle. Use our Advanced Search to narrow it down by Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or other areas. Make sure to select "Ranch" in the Style drop down menu.
For complete lists of ranch homes in each of the following cities, use the below links:
INVESTOR SPECIAL!!!!!! 2.43 Acres in Wake County with 3 Bedroom 2 bath Doublewide manufactured home. Doublewide is being sold As-Is. Seller will make no repairs!! DMV Ti...
Great opportunity in a growing area. The home needs a full renovation to be livable, giving you the option to rebuild, tear down, or start fresh with new construction. Th...
Great investment fixer upper ranch property in N. Durham! 2 bedrooms and 1 bath with approximately 915 sqft. Hardwood floors in the living room and bedrooms. 0.26 acre lo...
Perfect for an investment or homeowner! This 2-bedroom, 2 full bath condo offers a prime location with convenient access to downtown.
One level living in lovely Pittsboro, North Carolina. A quick walk or drive to Downtown with shopping, dining, and entertainment. Super convenient location and a great la...
2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom home in Burlington. Convenient location with easy access to Downtown Burlington and major highways.
Compact ranch living meets creative possibility at 607 Walker Avenue, a new Graham offering with two bedrooms, one bathroom, and 934 sq ft on one level. The five-room arr...
This three-bedroom, one-bathroom single-family residence in Haw River. The half acre lot provides substantial outdoor space for expansion, recreation, or landscaping proj...
Cute as a button! This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers 786 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, making the most of every square foot. The functional ...
Rare Land Opportunity in Wake County - Your Vision Starts Here! Uncover the potential of this 0.8-acre Wake County parcel, offered primarily for its land value with a 2-...
Welcome home to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath gem just minutes from the heart of downtown Gibsonville! Filled with natural light, this cozy home offers a warm and invit...
1188 SQ FT Manufactured Home on .50 Acre Lot in Wake County. There is currently not a Well on this lot due to it was a shared well. Family member has recently sold their...
3 BR/1BA brick home for sale in Burlington. Refrigerator, dishwasher and sink replaced in 2022. Bathroom updates include a nice walk-in shower, ceramic tile and LVP floor...
Unlock incredible long-term wealth potential with this outstanding value-add acquisition at 524 Tuliptree Road. Positioned on an expansive, quiet 0.39-acre lot, this 1,02...
Investor Special opportunity in Old East Durham adjacent to the Durham Performance Learning Center and 5 mins to downtown and Durham Bulls athletic park. This 2 bed 2 bat...
SELLER WILL PAY THE FIRST 12 MONTHS OF HOA DUES WITH AN ACCEPTABLE OFFER! Bypass NEW CONSTRUCTION and take advantage of this incredible opportunity to enjoy modern, low-m...
Four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and nearly 2,000 square feet of living space — this Snow Camp manufactured home delivers serious square footage at a price point that deman...
Adorable 1 bedroom / l bath condo, fully upgraded with granite counter tops, Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring, stainless-steel appliances to include a dishwasher, quartz bathr...
Welcome to 315 Lang Court, the charm starts with a classic ranch and a yard with room to enjoy. Inside, hardwood floors warm the living room, the bright kitchen has white...
Now offering the CUB at Bengal Towne Centre: 2nd floor studio unit is now ready for you to make this your home away from home. Convenient to elevator and stairs, luxury...
Scale your portfolio with this outstanding value-add acquisition at 521 Locust Road. Finding a low-maintenance, four-sided brick ranch at this price point in Orange Count...
MOVE-IN READY 3-BEDROOM HOME ON NEARLY 2 ACRES — HUGE POTENTIAL! This is the opportunity you've been waiting for! Located in rural Bennett in Chatham County, this move-in...
Don't miss this charming home featuring 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a comfortable layout designed for everyday living. The functional floor plan offers inviting living...
This charming 2 bedroom, 1 bath single family home has been thoughtfully updated throughout, offering a level of care and thoughtful renovation rarely found at this price...
As-is opportunity on just over 1 acre in Wake County! This 3-bedroom, 2-full-bath manufactured home is located within the Fuquay-Varina ETJ and offers a unique opportunit...
Imagine the possibilities! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath brick ranch has great bones and is ready for a fresh vision. With repairs and updates, you can transform this home int...
Wonderful opportunity !! This 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom single-family home in East Raleigh sits on a generous 13,068-square-foot lot, offering substantial outdoor space for t...
Circa-1920 charm meets modern comfort in this beautifully restored Burlington home. Original hardwood floors, exposed ceiling boards, classic moldings, wainscoting, and c...
This charming 712-square-foot end-unit townhome at 2331 Whistling Straits Way in Raleigh's Hedingham neighborhood offers a 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom layout with a vaulted cei...
Welcome to 144 Brown Hill Rd, a beautifully renovated home in a prime location! This charming property is just minutes from Jordan Lake, offering easy access to outdoor a...
Enjoy The Convenience Of City Living Without Paying City Taxes! NO HOA, NO Dues, NO Restrictive Covenants!! Great Home In Raleigh, CLOSE TO 3 COLLEGES and the perfect I...
This is a great chance to bring a home back to life with your own vision. Located just minutes from Raleigh's vibrant downtown this 3 bed 2 bath ranch is situated between...
Incredible opportunity in a prime location! This rare lot sits just off the new 540 extension and is only minutes from downtown Holly Springs. With direct access across t...
Exceptional opportunity inside the Beltline in Southeast Raleigh! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath ranch-style home offers classic brick exterior and convenient one-level living,...
112 E Franklin St offers a great opportunity to own a well-located home with comfort, functionality, and long-term value. The property features a practical layout with in...
This beautiful home is back on the market through no fault of the sellers, offering buyers a fantastic opportunity to secure a great property. Calling all creative buyers...
4 Shirley Caesar Ct is a one-story Durham home with white cabinetry and a full appliance package in the kitchen, including a range and refrigerator for daily meal prepara...
Welcome home to this beautifully reimagined, fully renovated 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom gem nestled on a spacious quarter-acre lot in Graham, NC. Every inch of this residence ...
THIS HOME IS FOR SALE!! THIS IS NOT A RENTAL! Welcome to 469 Lakeview Avenue, located in the heart of Burlington! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers over 1,500 square f...
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch nestled in an established Burlington neighborhood! This inviting home offers comfortable one-level living with a fun...
Looking for a home with charm, convenience, and a great location? Welcome to 215 W Parker Street! This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers 1,245 square feet of ...
BACK ON MARKET AT NO FAULT OF THE SELLER—BUYER FINANCING FELL THROUGH! Their loss is your immediate gain. Welcome to 1304 Nance Street, where sharp classic character mee...
Imagine the possibilities at 2121 Jordan Cabin Rd! Situated on nearly half an acre, this 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home offers an opportunity to bring your vision to life. The ...
6220 Paylor St is a single-story Mebane home set on a large, wooded lot with a covered carport and a freshly painted, move-in-ready interior. The kitchen features white c...
Freshly updated and ready for its next owner! Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bath home in Graham, now offered at 229,900. With approximately 1,126 s...
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family residence in Berry Farms offers solid foundation for homeownership in Burlington, NC. Situated on approximately 1.13 acres,...
SELLER NOW OFFERING UP TO $3000 TOWARDS CLOSING COST WITH ACCEPTABLE OFFER! Welcome home to this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath property in Burlington! Featurin...
Nestled on a spacious 0.72-acre lot, this adorable 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and tranquility. Step inside to discover a warm, invi...
Cozy 2bd/1ba ranch just minutes from Duke, NCCU, and Downtown Durham. Convenient to RTP, UNC, and major highways. Large Yard, Carport, and Covered Front Porch. Spaciou...
No Trespassing. Shown By Appt Only. A chance to own just minutes from Falls Lake! Situated on approximately 0.69 acres, this charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers the p...
Back on the market with fresh paint and new flooring. Opportunity in a prime Raleigh-area location! This 1017-square-foot home, built in 1970, offers solid bones and exce...
Enjoy easy, low-maintenance living in the Autumn Chase community of North Raleigh. Offering 2 bedrooms, 1 full bath, and 1,013 square feet, this one-level condo features ...
Nestled on a quiet street within Graham city limits, this quaint 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of cozy charm and convenience to downtown dining, sho...
Welcome home to this charming retreat nestled on a private 1-acre lot in peaceful Cedar Grove! Offering the best of country living with high convenience, you are just min...
Welcome to this charming brick home situated on a spacious corner lot in the peaceful country setting of Bennett. The large, open yard provides plenty of room for gardeni...
Welcome home to this move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch situated on a spacious .31-acre lot! Offering the convenience of one-level living, this home is a great opportu...
Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick ranch situated on a generous 0.44-acre lot in Burlington. Offering over 1,500 square feet of single-level living space, this home ...
Move-in ready and exceptionally well maintained, this charming ranch home offers the perfect combination of thoughtful updates and everyday comfort. The bright, open kitc...
Welcome home to this charming one-level ranch-style residence situated on a large lot near downtown. This inviting home features 2 spacious bedrooms and 1 bathroom, along...
Located in the heart of Raleigh, this home offers a convenient layout with easy access to everything the city and surrounding areas have to offer. Thoughtful updates have...
**NEW PRICE WITH 1 YEAR HOME WARRANTY AND $1,000 TOWARD CLOSING COST'S!** Private backyard retreat with an in-ground pool! This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers an...
Charming brick and stone ranch offering comfortable one-level living in a convenient location just minutes from elementary, middle, and high schools. The spacious family ...
Don't miss this inviting 1-story home featuring 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a comfortable layout designed for everyday living. The bright living area offers a welcomin...
This is a luxurious 2nd floor condo, featuring the Fuquay plan with 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom. Natural light through the large windows, a modern kitchen with modern applia...
Easy one-level living in an incredibly convenient North Raleigh location! This charming 2-bedroom, 2-bath ranch offers a flexible floor plan with comfortable living space...
Another $5K price reduction. Now $50K below original list price. Incredible value! You will not find a better interior. Ideally located between White Oak Park and the Ame...
Rare opportunity in Raleigh! This manufactured home sits on a beautiful 0.70-acre lot, offering the space and privacy that can be hard to find in the area. Less than 20 y...
Welcome to 306 Owen Street in Gibsonville! This inviting 3-bedroom, 1 bath home offers a great combination of modern updates and outdoor living. The bright, refreshed ki...
Step into move-in ready charm with this fully renovated, 3 Bedroom 1 Bath all-brick ranch located in the heart of Durham's desirable Hyde Park area. Meticulously updated ...
1-0 buydown OR 1% of loan amount in closing costs (up to $5k) w/ use of preferred lender! Discover a great opportunity in the heart of North Durham! This home is ready to...
RARE WAKE FOREST OPPORTUNITY UNDER $250K! Own a single-family home on approximately 1/3 acre with NO HOA and NO Wake Forest city taxes—plus an outdoor lifestyle that's ha...
Beautifully updated ranch home featuring new engineered wood floors throughout the main living areas and new carpet in the bedrooms. The updated kitchen offers new cabine...
This charming, move-in-ready home has been thoughtfully updated and is conveniently located approximately 3 minutes from vibrant downtown Mebane and about 8 minutes from ...
Inside the Beltline. $240K. Go ahead and read that again. This end unit is a rare address. Moments from Five Points, The Village District, Glenwood South, and North Hills...
Welcome to this move-in-ready 2-bedroom, in South Raleigh — with NO HOA to worry about! Set on a generous 0.25-acre lot (10,890 sq ft), this 1,073 sq ft home offers comfo...
Welcome home to this charming, updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath home that's move-in ready! The spacious family room provides plenty of room to relax or entertain, while the kitc...
*Price reduced* Welcome to this three-bedroom, one-bathroom single-family residence situated in Durham, close to highways, NCCU, dining and shopping. Built on a generous ...
Brick and cedar shake home offering 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and 1,335 square feet on a .24-acre lot! This move-in ready home features a new 2025 HVAC system for year-round c...
Charming 3-bedroom, 1 bath home conveniently located just minutes from Downtown Durham! This move-in-ready property features brand-new LVP flooring throughout, creating a...
BACK ON MARKET DUE TO DELAY IN BUYER FINANCING ... RALEIGH DUPLEX OPPORTUNITY_ LISTED BELOW TAX VALUE!! NO HOA - NO DUES - NO COVENANTS - NO DEED RESTRICTIONS! A N...
Rare financing opportunity! Assumable FHA loan with a 2.75% interest rate is available, subject to lender approval and buyer qualification. Ask listing agents for more ...
**Back on the Market!** The sellers are in the process of installing a **brand-new septic system**, which is expected to be completed soon. The previous septic report is ...
Welcome to this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath cottage in Durham's popular Colonial Village neighborhood! Ideally located within walking distance of Northgate Park, local sho...
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom single-family residence in the Breckenridge community of Durham is not to miss for a first time home buyer, transitional living or even an ...
Welcome to 207 W Holt Street - a 1925 charmer fully reborn for modern living! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home has been taken down to the studs and completely renovated in...
Freshly remodeled and fully permitted — 2127 Neese Road delivers the rare combination of modern comfort and peace of mind. This move in ready home sits in a convenient Gr...
Possibility takes center stage. This new Hillsborough listing offers three bedrooms, one bathroom, and 1,066 square feet across a single floor, giving buyers a manageable...
Note: There is a scam ad offering this property for rent-do not call the number in the add. Contact listing agent with any questions. Quaint cottage on a spacious city l...
Welcome to Hillsborough! Nestled in an established Hillsborough neighborhood, this spacious home sits on a generous 0.34-acre lot with no HOA restrictions. Featuring fan...
Character, charm and only 2 years old. One level Ranch home less than 1 mile from vibrant Downtown Graham. Walk or bike and be in the center of the action in a few shor...
A charming, well-maintained property offering both comfort and convenience. This inviting home features a thoughtfully designed layout with abundant natural light, creati...
NEW PRICE $250,000!! SLASHED $20,000!! AND STILL OFFERING *$5000 FOR BUYER CONCESSIONS!! NOW JUST $151/SF!! RUN, DON'T WALK to this charming home offers a perfect blend ...
Welcome to 220 Lakewood Drive, a well-located Wendell home that blends classic character with thoughtful updates. Major improvements include a 2021 roof and a brand-new H...
This is an opportunity for first-time buyers, investors, or anyone looking for a home where they can start out with some equity. This home is being sold as-is and price...
Cozy, Clean & Completely Move-In Ready - Just Minutes from Downtown Durham! Welcome to this beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 1-bath home, perfectly situated on a spaciou...
Welcome home to this 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 1130 sq ft home tucked away on a quiet .22-acre cul-de-sac lot in Long Meadows. A covered front porch sets a warm tone from the mo...
This 1947 cottage is functional and liveable, but needs some TLC. Renovation financing may be available. Excellent opportunity to to update, modernize, and add value. In...
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch in a convenient Raleigh location! Freshly painted and ready for its next owner, this cozy home offers comfortable on...
Back On the Market All brick Ranch. Home has an accessible ramp to the home. Two bedrooms with one full bathroom. Home is built on a crawl space. Level lot with nice driv...
Beautiful ITB ranch with no HOA and just minutes from Downtown Raleigh. This open floor plan features a stunning kitchen with shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, tile ba...
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