Duke University Medical Center occupies a portion of the campus of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.

Durham is situated near the center of the state, in the Piedmont region, approximately 3 1/2 hours from both the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Blue Ridge Mountains to the west. The climate is generally mild, with the exception of a period of cold weather in January and February with lows primarily in the 20s and 30s, and a period of hot weather in July and August when highs are often in the upper 90s. The terrain is gently sloping with numerous fields, forests, and lakes.

Durham itself is a medium-sized city that used to be known for tobacco production but is now renowned as the City of Medicine and for its position as one of the corners of the high-tech environment of the Research Triangle Park. Because of Durham's relatively small size and the fact that Duke is situated on its outskirts, residents in ophthalmology are spared the many problems that accompany working at medical centers in large urban areas. In addition, the presence of a university population in Durham and neighboring Raleigh and Chapel Hill has led to the establishment of many fine restaurants, stores, and cultural attractions. The cost of living is relatively low, and many affordable apartment complexes can be found within 10 minutes of the Eye Center. Purchase of a house for the duration of residency training is also an option that some residents choose.

Additional information about housing and the local community can be obtained from the Duke House Staff office at 919-684-3491.