Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina and is also the seat of Wakefield County. It is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States and its population has grown by 100,000 inhabitants from 2000 to 2008. At present, the city has is home to over 300,000 people. It is the second most populated city in North Carolina and is part of the 'Research Triangle' that also includes Durham and Chapel Hill. The Research Triangle is considered one of the US' largest and most successful Research Parks focused on hi-tech and biotech research. Climate-wise, the city receives around 7 inches of snowfall each winter. Ice storms and freezing rain and sleet also occur.

The city is home to several museums including the African American Cultural Complex, the Contemporary Art Museum, The Haywood Hall House and Gardens, and the Marbles Kids Museum. The NHL's Carolina Hurricanes moved to Raleigh in 1997, they are the only major league professional sports team in North Carolina to have won a championship - the Stanley Cup.

A major international airport and several private airports service Raleigh. An intercity rail runs through the city and transport in and around the city proper is provided by two companies, the Capital Area Transit and the Triangle Transit.