ITB vs OTB: Navigating the Raleigh beltlines (updated for 2024)

If you’re new to the Triangle, it’s likely you’ve seen the terms “Inside the Beltline” (ITB) and “Outside the Beltline” (OTB). You may trying to understand these terms and what they mean. The inner and outer beltlines of the Raleigh interstate system are not just quick ways to navigate the city. They have also created distinct experiences for the homeowners who live in these areas.

Here’s what you should know about these areas.

The inner beltline refers to the I-440 Interstate that circles Raleigh and its downtown. Living ITB, or Inside the Beltline, means residents live inside of that I-440 interstate line and close to the heart of Raleigh.

With the city of Raleigh in the middle of the inner beltline, that means the ITB area has a distinct metropolitan vibe. It provides a downtown city energy where everything from museums to the state capitol building to high-end restaurants to proximity to NC State University gives residents convenience to the hottest places in the city. The inner beltline also offers several mixed-use developments. Here, residents can live within walking distance to fine dining, coffee shops, shopping, and more.

Because the inner beltline is also where the story of Raleigh began, historic homes make up much of the downtown area. There are six specific neighborhoods within the inner beltline, too. And each offers a distinct type of lifestyle for its residents.

In addition to downtown’s condominium and apartment buildings, Raleigh’s Hillsborough neighborhood and its subdivisions—Historic Oakwood, Boylan Heights, and Brooklyn Heights—offer historic colonial and bungalow homes in well-established locations. Mordecai is made up of historic homes within a short commute to William Peace University and the state government buildings.

Five Points has turn-of-the-century homes mixed with townhomes and newer single family home locations. The Wade and Glenwood neighborhoods are similarly newer, walkable neighborhoods. They are family-friendly and offer proximity to great schools and the city’s top amenities.

Finally, Midtown includes parts of Raleigh that extend beyond I-540. It includes the exciting North Hills development, which will feature a mixed-use innovation hub for anyone looking to work and play close to home.

The ITB area of Raleigh is a great option for anyone looking to experience a vibrant city living with convenience to culture, arts, entertainment, and more.

The outer beltline is the I-540 Interstate that extends into the suburban communities that surround Raleigh—like Apex, Knightdale, and Morrisville—and connects to the Research Triangle Park, Durham, and Chapel Hill.

Living Outside of the Beltline means more space and larger homes. It also means you’ll enjoy a quieter overall lifestyle than the urban living offered within the beltline. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a slower life by any means.

Many of the communities surrounding Raleigh are growing and thriving. For example, Cary is consistently named one of the “Best Places to Live” by Money Magazine. It offers phenomenal restaurants, numerous cultural events, and its newest hotspot Fenton, home to boutiques, shops, dining, and entertainment.

Smaller, yet growing towns like Knightdale, Rolesville, and Zebulon provide a smaller-town atmosphere with plenty of space to grow. Yet they’re close to Raleigh and easily accessible to the city using I-540. And Wake Forest is filled with history, culture, convenience, and spacious, desirable homes. It’s easy to find everything from luxury homes to townhomes and something in-between.

The great thing about living outside of the beltline is that you’ll get more home for your money. Plus, many of these locations provide fast and easy access to the Research Triangle Park, which is a hub of innovation. It’s a great place for anyone looking for outstanding jobs that will provide a wonderful way of life for your family.

Living Outside of the Beltline is an appealing option for many. Yet there’s no denying the incredible lifestyle that exists close to the city. Whether you’re an ITB or OTB type of individual, the Triangle has something you’ll love.