What’s the Difference Between Living in Fayetteville vs. Raeford vs. Hope Mills?

If you’re moving to the Fort Bragg (Fort Liberty) area, one of the first decisions you’ll make is where to live. Three of the most popular choices are Fayetteville, Raeford, and Hope Mills—each with its own character, advantages, and trade-offs.

Living in Fayetteville

As the largest city in the region, Fayetteville is directly adjacent to Fort Liberty.

Pros:

• Convenience – Close to multiple gates for easy base access.

• Variety of homes – Options range from affordable starter homes to upscale neighborhoods.

• Amenities – Shopping, dining, and entertainment options are plentiful.

Considerations:

• Traffic – Congestion can be an issue, especially near major gates.

• Property taxes – Cumberland County’s rates are higher than neighboring counties.

Best for: Buyers who want the shortest commute, more housing options, and easy access to city life.

Living in Raeford

Located in Hoke County, Raeford is west of base and has grown quickly in recent years.

Pros:

• Lower property taxes – Hoke County taxes are lower than Cumberland County’s.

• Newer homes – Many neighborhoods feature modern builds with open floorplans.

• Suburban feel – More space, quieter pace, and family-friendly communities.

Considerations:

• Commute – Typically 20–40 minutes to base, depending on traffic and gate access.

• Limited amenities – Fewer big-box stores and entertainment options compared to Fayetteville.

Best for: Families who want newer homes, lower taxes, and a quieter environment—even if it means a longer commute.

Living in Hope Mills

South of Fayetteville, Hope Mills offers a mix of small-town charm and suburban convenience.

Pros:

• Established neighborhoods – Many long-standing communities with character.

• Schools & recreation – Local parks, a lake, and good access to schools.

• Balance of affordability and amenities – Close enough to Fayetteville’s shopping without being in the middle of the city.

Considerations:

• Commute – Around 20–30 minutes to base, depending on gate access.

• Resale value – Not as strong as Raeford in some areas, but steady overall.

Best for: Buyers who want a balance between city convenience and suburban living.

Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on your priorities:

• Shortest commute? Fayetteville.

• Lower taxes + newer homes? Raeford.

• Suburban balance + small-town feel? Hope Mills.

When I work with clients, we start with your lifestyle and PCS timeline, then match that with the area that best fits your budget and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fayetteville vs. Raeford vs. Hope Mills

1. Which area has the lowest property taxes? Raeford (Hoke County) generally has the lowest taxes, followed by Hope Mills (Cumberland County), with Fayetteville being the highest.

2. Which is best for resale value? Raeford’s newer builds and growing demand make it strong for resale. Fayetteville offers the largest buyer pool due to its size. Hope Mills holds steady but can vary by neighborhood.

3. Which area is closest to Fort Liberty? Fayetteville is the closest, with multiple gates just minutes away.

4. Are there good schools in these areas? Each has access to public, private, and charter options. Many military families also use DoDEA schools or apply for school choice programs.

5. Which area is best for rentals if I PCS? All three have rental demand, but Fayetteville has the highest volume of renters, while Raeford often attracts families looking for longer-term leases.

👉 Still debating which area is right for you? Let’s take a tour together. I’ll show you homes in Fayetteville, Raeford, and Hope Mills so you can compare firsthand.

📲 Call/text me at 910-916-9315 or email cassie@birchandbeamrealty.com to get started.

And remember—Close with Cassie.