We’re in the heart of the Research Triangle and home to UNC-Chapel Hill, a top public R1 institution. Chapel Hill is under 30 minutes from Raleigh-Durham International Airport, providing access to quick and easy flights for client meetings. We’re connected locally, too — with a fare-free Chapel Hill public transportation that increases access to our town’s well-educated workforce.
Location & Infrastructure
Your Hub for Connections
Transportation Quick Links
Raleigh-Durham International Airport
Located just under 30 minutes from Chapel Hill, RDU offers close to 400 daily flights and non-stop service to 80+ domestic and international destinations.
Chapel Hill Transit
Our fare-free transit system makes it easy and affordable to access nearby communities and employers like Carrboro, Durham, and UNC Hospital.
We’re in the Right Place
Connection That’s Easy for Businesses
Whether it’s your employees, clients, or prospects — it’s easy to get in and out of Chapel Hill. See why expanding companies move here for our central location, top-ranked highway infrastructure, and airport proximity.
North Carolina’s infrastructure is some of the best in the nation, ranked No. 4 in 2026 for its high-performing, cost effective highways. Pair that with Chapel Hill’s centralized location and proximity to the Triad — businesses are never far from where they need to be.
Interstate 40, a major east-west transcontinental highway, serves as the primary driver of interstate travel with direct connections to Charlotte, NC, Nashville, TN, and as far as the west coast. Meanwhile, local roadways keep traffic flowing smoothly throughout the Triangle — making it easier for employees to commute.
- NC Highway 54 connects Chapel Hill to Carrboro in the west and Durham/Raleigh to the east.
- NC 86 runs directly through town center and the UNC campus to Hillsborough, the county seat.
- US 15-501 gets you to Duke University in Durham in about 20 minutes.
Tired of complicated business travel? Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) sits less than 30 minutes from Chapel Hill, giving you serious global reach without the hassle. They consistently rank within the Top Five Large Airports in North America according to J.D. Power, meaning shorter lines and less stress. And with 19 airlines, 400 daily flights, and non-stop service to over 80 domestic and international destinations, your client base has never been more within reach.
Need commercial shipping capabilities? RDU’s Fixed-Base Operators and cargo facilities support private aviation and freight transportation for the entire Research Triangle Region. More than 100,000 tons of cargo passed through RDU in 2024, averaging about 278 tons daily.
Businesses Love it Here Because…
Your quality of life matters to us, from our top-ranked K-12 schools, vibrant neighborhoods, world-class healthcare, outdoor amenities, and cultural resources.
Sites & Incentives
Ready to see how your company fits into the Chapel Hill business community? Search sites, properties, and incentives for growing the local economy.
New Businesses
Need help navigating a new opening or accessing financing? The Chapel Hill Economic Development team connects your business to the right resources.
Workforce & Demographics
Residents of Chapel Hill are among the most educated in the nation. Tap into an international workforce with diverse talent.
Our Team
Here to Help
Not sure where to find an incentive application or business permit? Need insight into our local industries? Contact us and we’ll connect you to the right people and resources.
