Welcome to Clayton, North Carolina
Welcome to Clayton, NC — a fast-growing, family-friendly town just outside Raleigh. Known for its small-town charm, affordable living, and vibrant local culture, Clayton offers a wonderful lifestyle for first-time buyers, families, and retirees alike.
Why residents love Clayton:
A warm, welcoming small-town feel with big-city access
Affordable housing options compared to nearby Raleigh & Cary
A thriving arts, dining, and music scene
Plenty of parks, greenways, and family activities
Quick access to Raleigh, RTP, and major job hubs
Search for properly in Clayton Homes for Sale
Schools in Clayton, North Carolina
Families choose Clayton for its strong schools within the Johnston County Public School District. The area offers both traditional public schools and charter/private options.
Public schools serving Clayton include:
Cooper Academy (Elementary)
Clayton Middle School
Clayton High School
Cleveland High School
Charter & Private options:
Thales Academy Clayton
Johnston Charter Academy
Nearby private schools in Raleigh and Garner
Education in Clayton emphasizes academic growth, extracurriculars, and community involvement, making it a great place for families.
Amenities & Community Services
Clayton has everything you need for convenient living, from healthcare to shopping to community events.
Downtown Clayton – Unique shops, local art, breweries, and dining
Flowers Plantation – A growing community with shops, restaurants, and wellness centers
Johnston Health Clayton – Modern hospital and urgent care services
Clayton Community Center – Fitness, programs, and events for all ages
Cultural arts – The Clayton Center hosts concerts, theater, and community performances
Parks & Outdoor Living
Clayton is rich in outdoor spaces, making it a paradise for families, hikers, and anyone who loves fresh air.
Popular parks & trails:
Clayton River Walk on the Neuse – A scenic, paved trail connecting to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail
East Clayton Community Park – Playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails
Legend Park – Outdoor basketball, volleyball, and green space
Clemmons Educational State Forest – Educational trails and nature programs
Commute & Accessibility
Clayton offers the best of both worlds — small-town living with quick access to Raleigh and surrounding cities.
🚗 25–30 minutes to Raleigh
🚗 35–40 minutes to Research Triangle Park (RTP)
✈️ 40 minutes to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
🛣️ Easy access via I-40, US-70, and NC-42
This makes Clayton especially popular for commuters seeking affordability and space while staying connected to jobs in the Triangle.
Dining & Entertainment in Clayton
Clayton’s dining and arts scene is growing fast, with plenty of local favorites.
Restaurants & cafes to try:
Mannings Restaurant – Elevated Southern dining
First Street Tavern – Gastropub with live music
Deep River Brewing Company – Clayton’s first brewery, a local favorite
Boulevard West – Cozy coffee shop with a community vibe
Entertainment & culture:
The Clayton Center – Concerts, plays, and art shows
Downtown murals & public art – Adding character and color to the town
Seasonal events: Harvest Festival, Christmas Parade, and Town Square Concert Series
Why Work With Me
Hi! I’m Phil Slezak, your AI Certified Real Estate Agent, and I love helping people find their place here in Clayton, NC.
Clayton is one of the Triangle’s fastest-growing towns, and I bring both local insight and AI-powered tools to help you navigate the market with confidence.
Here’s what you can expect from me:
✅ Local knowledge of Clayton’s neighborhoods and communities
✅ AI-enhanced tools for smarter pricing and faster searches
✅ Personalized service for buyers, sellers, upsizers, and downsizers
✅ Strong negotiation skills to help you get the best deal
✅ Community-first mindset — I’m your neighbor and your advocate
📞 Let’s connect today! Whether you’re ready to buy, sell, or simply explore your options, I’d love to help guide your next move in Clayton.
Phil Slezak Real Estate
2100 Lake Dam Rd #37458
Raleigh, NC 27606
(919) 607-4844
