Location: Richmond County, NC | Metro: Pinehurst-Southern Pines, 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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,710 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,060 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,390 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,677 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,891 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,036 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,230 | $198,448 | 0.62% | D |
| 3BR | $1,710 | $397,701 | 0.43% | F |
| 4BR | $2,060 | $523,148 | 0.39% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP code 27281, Jackson Springs, NC, reveals a unique balance between yield and stability that could inform investment strategies.
On the yield axis, the area presents a favorable opportunity. The metro Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,140, while the market FMR stands at $1,420. This suggests that there is potential for rental income above the average in the region. However, the median home value is notably lower at $74,547 compared to the national average, which could indicate a less expensive entry point into the market for investors looking to purchase properties. The disparity between the higher market FMR and the lower median home value points towards a relatively high-yielding market.
Regarding stability, the data is somewhat mixed. With only 9.4% of the population being renters, the area has a low percentage of residents who might be interested in renting, which could impact the demand for rental properties. Additionally, the lack of available data on days on market (DOM) for rentals indicates a possible difficulty in assessing how quickly properties can be leased out. On the positive side, the median household income of $74,547 suggests that residents have sufficient financial means to support rent payments, contributing to a stable cash flow once tenants are secured.
In summary, ZIP 27281 leans towards a high-yield but low-stability environment. The significant gap between the market FMR ($1,420) and the median home value ($74,547) supports a high-yield scenario. However, the low percentage of renters (9.4%) and the absence of data on DOM signals a market with less stability. For investors, this could mean a scenario where quick flips might not be as advantageous due to the low rental demand, but long-term investments could provide steady cash flow given the solid income levels of the residents.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.