Location: Burlington, NC | Metro: Burlington, NC MSA
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,040 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,190 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,010 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,332 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,612 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,821 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,962 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,300 | $198,292 | 0.66% | D |
| 3BR | $1,600 | $298,739 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $2,010 | $381,335 | 0.53% | F |
| 5BR | $2,332 | $411,913 | 0.57% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 27253, located in Graham, NC, represents a significant opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to attract Section 8 tenants. With a population of 33,114, 33.5% of residents are renters, indicating a moderately sized rental market. The median household income stands at $62,774, which provides context for the affordability of housing in the area.
The market rent for the ZIP is $1,377, which constitutes approximately 22% of the median household income. This percentage suggests that while rent is a substantial portion of income, it remains manageable for many households. Comparatively, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,130 for FY 2024, indicates that there is a gap between market rents and what is considered fair by federal standards. However, this gap also implies a potential for voucher utilization, as the FMR is often the benchmark for rental assistance programs.
Given the demographics and economic conditions, landlords in ZIP 27253 can expect a mix of tenants who are likely to benefit from Section 8 vouchers. These tenants will typically have an income level below the median, making up a significant portion of the rental market. The voucher demand is expected to be moderate, not necessarily deep, but certainly present given the percentage of renters and the income levels relative to market rents.
To conclude, Graham, NC (ZIP 27253) is a renter-heavy area with a notable presence of Section 8 voucher holders. Landlords should prepare for tenants who rely on rental assistance to secure housing, ensuring their properties meet the necessary standards and requirements for voucher acceptance. The tenant profile will likely include families and individuals whose income is lower than the median, yet sufficient to cover the rent with government assistance.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.