The Raleigh/Durham area heavily research oriented, so it's better than Austin for data-science work IMO. There isn't really a big web company scene here, there

The Raleigh/Durham area heavily research oriented, so it's better than Austin for data-science work IMO. There isn't really a big web company scene here, there are lots of developer shops and B2B IT service companies though. If you get a house in south Durham, your commute will be between 5-30 minutes, averaging about 20 minutes. Public transit is not really an option and nothing is walkable, but parking is plentiful (except at the universities). The area is pleasantly low-density, with lots of parks, hiking, boating, rafting and similar outdoor activities. Cost of living is lower than Austin for a similar commute and quality level.