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:
Welcome to 2929 Tom Clark Rd., where country charm meets everyday convenience. Ideally located with easy access to I-85 and nearby shopping, dining, and amenities, this a...
SCHEDULE SHOWINGS STARTING 9/22 If you've been looking for more space, more freedom, and a great Mebane location without the added expense of city taxes or an HOA, 1402 ...
Charming ranch home on a picturesque 2-acre lot offering the perfect blend of peaceful country living and modern convenience. This 2 bed, 2 bath home features a spacious ...
Charming ranch home in the historic Rochester Heights neighborhood, offering both character and convenience. Ideally located just 2 miles from the heart of downtown and e...
Opportunity awaits with this blank canvas, perfect for a buyer ready to bring their vision to life. Ideal for investors or homeowners looking to design and customize to t...
New $10,000 price reduction and seller is offering a $5,000 credit to use however buyer would like! Welcome home to this charming, move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home ...
This freshly painted 3-bedroom, 2-bath cottage in Hertford Village offers charm, functionality, and excellent ownership potential on a 0.22-acre partially fenced lot. Ori...
Freshly repainted and move-in ready! Take advantage of this traditionally well-built home in one of Durham's most perfectly situated neighborhoods. This well-loved, light...
QUALIFIES FOR UP TO $12,500 IN DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE! AFFORDABLE NEW CONSTRUCTION IN THE CITY OF SAVANNAH. CONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR SHOPPING, DINING, HOSPITALS, AND GA...
Fully Renovated Home in a Rapidly Growing Area! Don't miss this beautifully renovated home located in one of the area's fastest-growing neighborhoods. Currently permit...
Enjoy easy one-level living in this beautifully updated all-brick home located in a convenient and well-established Garner neighborhood. Fresh paint and new carpet in the...
Beautifully updated ranch home in a fantastic Garner location, just 15 minutes from downtown Raleigh and conveniently located near shopping, dining, and major roadways, i...
Welcome to this beautiful ranch-style home nestled in a serene country setting on nearly a full acre of land. Designed for easy main-level living, the layout provides bot...
Enjoy easy one-level living with plenty of outdoor space in this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home situated on a quiet street and nearly half an acre. Inside, the thoughtfu...
Move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single-story home built in 2020 in Garner's Johnson Place community. New flooring runs throughout the main living areas, complemented ...
Now's the Time to Grab this ADORABLE RANCH Home in popular Amber Ridge SD; with a 3/2 Split Bedroom plan, this is a Great Home! Master Bedroom has WIC! Master Bath has an...
Welcome to this inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch-style home, proudly owned by the original owners since it was built! A covered front porch offers a welcoming entrance, w...
Updated home in Long Acres! This 3 bedroom/1 bathroom home has gorgeous hardwood floors in an open floorplan. Updated kitchen with shaker cabinets, tile backsplash, stain...
Welcome to 4112 Hopkins Trace Lane in Zebulon, NC, offering comfortable single-level living, a spacious yard, and a convenient location in eastern Wake County. This invit...
Charming ranch-style home in Raleigh. A rocking-chair front porch welcomes you into a bright living room with a vaulted ceiling, a brick fireplace, and a ceiling fan. The...
Brick ranch with a bright walk-out basement, oversized attached two-car garage, and peaceful creek setting in an established Burlington neighborhood. This 3BR/2BA home b...
Welcome to 3112 Rosebriar Drive! This charming single-story brick home sits on approximately 0.48 acres with no HOA and offers a wonderful blend of character, functionali...
1-0 buy down OR 1% of loan amount in closing costs (up to $5k) w/ use of preferred lender! No HOA, a spacious fenced backyard, and a prime Raleigh location! 3912 Memory L...
Welcome to this inviting Raleigh home offering a functional layout with versatile living spaces. The spacious living room provides a comfortable setting for everyday gath...
Welcome to 5417 Trenburg Court! Move-in-ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch offering approximately 1,314 sq. ft. of comfortable one-level living on a cul-de-sac in Knightdale. ...
Affordable Garner brick ranch with a large yard, 3 bedrooms, flexible bonus space, and no HOA! Featuring a 2024 roof, updated flooring, fresh paint, and abundant natural ...
I'm not another cookie-cutter house...I was built in 1954, when homes were made with character, craftsmanship, and details worth keeping. Nestled in an established neighb...
An inviting front porch and entry welcome you to this three-bedroom, two-bath Durham home. Inside, the open living area connects to a kitchen featuring navy cabinetry, a ...
Looking for space without the restrictions of an HOA? This well-maintained ranch sits on a hard-to-find 0.77-acre lot, offering room for additional parking, recreational ...
Investor's Dream in downtown Wendell! Take advantage of this ability to walk to downtown breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants while having Wendell Falls at your doors...
Completely Renovated and Impressively Remodeled... and then some. This home has brand new everything and has a third bedroom and full bath has been added. That makes for...
Welcome to 805 Hepplewhite Court, a charming home tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in Fuquay-Varina. This inviting property offers a comfortable layout with plenty of po...
Discover the space and versatility this well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home has to offer. The thoughtfully designed split-bedroom floor plan provides sepa...
Welcome to this ranch home in Raleigh offering an excellent opportunity to make this property your own. This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home offers a practical floor plan with com...
Enjoy the space and flexibility of a manufactured home on its own land with no HOA. The home offers easy one-level living with an open feel, a spacious kitchen with islan...
This beautifully updated all-brick ranch home combines mid-century charm with modern convenience. The interior features a brand-new kitchen with stylish countertops, a ne...
Imagine spending your weekends on a private, oversized deck surrounded by mature trees! Situated on a wooded corner lot with eye-catching curb appeal, this 3-bedroom, 2-b...
Welcome to 924 Big Bend Court, a beautifully maintained ranch home tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in a desirable Wake Forest community with NO HOA! Situated on a gener...
Welcome to 905 Alexander Stewart Drive, where location and opportunity come together! Nestled in an established Hillsborough community, this home offers convenient access...
Welcome to 4141 Whispering Oaks Court, offering 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on just over an acre in Graham. The kitchen was updated in 2020 and features cherrywood cabinetry, ...
Convenient Raleigh living with the city right at your fingertips. Just south of US 401, this 3BR, 2BA ranch puts you close to downtown Raleigh, NC State, the NC State Far...
Seller offering a $2,500 credit at closing. Quiet convenience with modern updates and 1974 bones, that's what you can expect from 601 Mcnair. This move-in ready brick ran...
Welcome to this bright and sunny three-bedroom, two-bath single-family residence. Completely renovated from the inside out, this lovely ranch is move-in ready. The spacio...
Welcome to this 2-bedroom single residence located in Colonial Village, Durham, NC. Situated on a spacious lot, this property offers a generously updated kitchen includin...
An in-ground pool sets the stage at 2600 Wedgedale Ave, a single-story ranch in Woodcrest bordered by a natural wooded area behind the lot. Outside, a fenced backyard inc...
1311 Brucemont Dr is a single-story brick ranch in Garner, where a brick fireplace anchors a bright living room with a wall of front windows. The kitchen features warm wo...
Price Reduction! New roof, new HVAC, new Hardie Board siding, new kitchen and bath cabinets, new stainless stove, microwave, dishwasher, refrigerator, and stackable W&D a...
Home Back on the Market at NO Fault of the SELLER If you're tired of stairs and wasted space, this layout just makes sense. 243 Nicks Street is all one level, easy to mov...
Discover the appeal of single-story living on approximately 1.13 acres in Mebane! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers approximately 1,100 square feet, pairing the conven...
Are you on the hunt for one-level living, with a garage, and private yard? Back on market at no fault of Seller, now is your chance to hop on it! Rare opportunity for a b...
This charming, warm ranch-style townhome is a must-see! Coming in at 1,050 square feet, it lives much larger than the number suggests. Two great-sized bedrooms share a si...
You have to come take a look at this charming 3 -bedroom ranch home. It has a rocking chair front porch and large wrap around back deck and fenced back yard for entertain...
Freshly updated and ready to roll! 2709 Evers has done the heavy lifting for you and has a new kitchen, floors, paint and more! A very generous floorplan provides flexi...
Escape to your private wooded retreat! Discover this stunning one-level, end unit, Colony Hill townhome where every day feels like a getaway. Step out onto your spacious ...
Welcome to this renovated three-bedroom, one-bathroom ranch offering thoughtful updates and a convenient Raleigh location! The refreshed kitchen is a standout, featuring ...
Adorable & charming home in the heart of Moncure. Freshly painted inside and out. Updated bathroom, large eat in kitchen, large living room and 2 large bedrooms. Some ori...
Move-in ready ranch home with no HOA! This beautifully renovated residence presents a rare opportunity to own a home that seamlessly blends sophisticated design, modern f...
Built in 1920, this three-bedroom ranch-style home offers a unique opportunity for a homeowner, investor, builder, or developer. The existing residence features a spaciou...
This cute and very well maintained Durham gem sits on over an acre with serene wooded views centrally located to all of Durham has to offer. Updates and upgrades include ...
SELLER IS OFFERING $3,000 IN CLOSING COSTS TO BUYER WITH ACCEPTABLE OFFER! Looking for single-level living, with a garage, private yard, and NO HOA? Welcome to 504 Flaher...
Step inside and feel what a complete, thoughtful renovation makes possible. With 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and 1,474 square feet on a 0.2 acre lot, this home has been rei...
Come take a walk through this charming 3 bedroom 2 bath brick ranch in Durham. It's cute with a functional layout and an abundance of natural light due to the stylish ...
Charming bungalow in Durham's sought-after Duke Park neighborhood! This inviting home offers a functional layout with spacious living and dining areas, abundant natural l...
Welcome home to this charming ranch nestled on a private, wooded half-acre lot in Garner. Enjoy the best of both worlds: the convenience of city living with the peaceful ...
One level living in Durham under $300,000. Possibilities! This 3 bedroom 2 full bath home would make a great single level family home or rental for the savvy investor. ...
Positioned on a 1.1-acre parcel in Wendell, this single-story Doublewide Manufactured home offers 1,506 sq. ft. of functional living space paired with outdoor opportunity...
PENDING. Property is under contract, subject to Wake County Superior Court approval and a statutory 10-day upset bid period. Accepted contract price: $435,000 for both 14...
Development Opportunity in Fuquay-Varina - Two Structures on One Parcel! Rare opportunity to own 602 & 604 Faucette St, featuring two dwelling units on one parcel in a...
Charming ranch nestled in the heart of Wake Forest! This well-maintained home features 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, an inviting open layout with abundant natural light, ...
SELLER SAYS LET'S GO! Grab this beauty in an upcoming area of Wake Forest before it's too late! This beautifully renovated 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch combines the characte...
Absolutely Gorgeous Wildwood Ranch Home with extensive renovations, inside and out, for immediate occupancy! New luxury vinyl plank flooring, new interior paint (ceiling...
Offering a 1% rate buy-down or up to $6,000 in closing concessions through our approved lender. This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home combines classic charm with thoughtfu...
Welcome home to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence where timeless character meets thoughtful updates. Beautiful hardwood floors flow throughout most of the home, w...
Discover the comfort and tranquility this spacious ranch-style home has to offer. With 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms and a bonus room, there's plenty of room for everyd...
Offering a 1% rate buy-down or up to $6,000 in closing concessions through our approved lender. Move-in ready and conveniently located just 15 minutes from Downtown Ralei...
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! 3 bed, 2 bath home in the Durham Area! Minutes to Brier Creek, Hwy 70 and FRWY 885. This home features ample space to make your own. Is perf...
Welcome to this beautifully maintained ranch-style home situated on a spacious .26-acre lot just minutes from downtown Fuquay-Varina! The meticulously landscaped and fenc...
Discover the possibilities with this 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick ranch nestled on 4.36 acres. Offering plenty of room to spread out, this property provides a great opportunit...
Comfort, updates, and convenience in one well-located ranch. Step into comfort and easy one-level living in this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch, set on a quiet, low-t...
NO HOA!!! Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch in Garner offering 1,144 square feet of comfortable, easy-care living. The home features LVP flooring and no c...
One-level living with a detached 2-car garage near Downtown Holly Springs? Yes, it does exist. Just off Main Street, this home puts you close to Ting Park, Holly Springs ...
This completely updated home in Burlington is move-in ready and waiting for you! Back on the market at no fault of the seller. Previous buyer terminated during the due di...
Welcome Home! Wonderful 4 bedroom brick Ranch situated on an open corner lot! Property offers an eat-in Kitchen with generous counter and cabinet space, lovely tile backs...
311 Pebble Way is a one-story Durham single-family home built in 1997 with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The kitchen offers wood cabinetry, ample counter space, and a...
$5,000 BUYER'S ALLOWANCE TOWARD PAINT! Beautiful Wendell home featuring elegant marble flooring and a backyard patio wired for an outdoor TV—perfect for entertaining or r...
VERY NICE UPDATED RANCH, 3 BED ROOMS 2 FULL BATHS, TILE BATHS AND KITCHEN, GRANITE COUNTER TOPS, NEW CABINETS AND STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, NEW HVAC, NEW WATER HEATER,N...
Home sweet home- Beautifully updated 3 bed 2 bath home. Just minutes to downtown Raleigh and the trails at Walnut Creek. Inside you will find fresh paint throughout, open...
Great opportunity to buy an affordable single-story home in Durham's Duke Homestead area. This home offers space, convenience, and an opportunity to build equity. Upda...
This is it.....you found the one! Move-in ready and beautifully maintained, this 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is ready to welcome its new owners. Step inside to a spacious, ...
Sale is subject to third-party approval and a 10-day right of first refusal.
Welcome to this beautifully refreshed ranch home in the established Phillips Pointe community of Fuquay-Varina! Situated on a spacious 0.30 acre cul-de-sac lot, this home...
Move-In Ready. This beautiful updated modern ranch-style home is ready for its new owners! LVP flooring throughout; stunning kitchen with new quartz countertops, brand ne...
*$3000 CLOSING COST and FREE Appraisal with preferred Lender - Michael Genuino with ZHL - 1 (425) 842-7091* This 1955 ranch at 1118 Raynor St was taken down to the studs ...
Fantastic ranch home nestled at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac loaded with recent improvements. New roof 2022. Remodeled kitchen with LVP flooring, quartz countertops, des...
Previous buyer got cold feet! opportunity is back on the market! This beautifully refreshed home is move-in ready and offers thoughtful updates throughout. Inside, you'll...
Welcome to this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom brick ranch offering comfortable one-level living in an incredibly convenient location just 5 minutes from the heart of Fuq...
Move-in ready and perfectly positioned in one of Wake County's most desirable growth areas! Situated on an impressive .70-acre lot, this property offers the space and pri...
Welcome to this private ranch end-unit townhome in Cary's desirable Riverwalk neighborhood, offering wooded views, flexible living space and an excellent location near sh...
Welcome to 2115 Glendale Ave, a turn-key, high-yield investment in the heart of Durham! Scale your portfolio instantly with this fully renovated 3 BR/2BA gem. The interio...
Welcome to your personal retreat in the highly sought-after Hedingham community. Perfectly positioned right on the fairway, this charming two-bedroom, two-bathroom cottag...
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