Location: Wilson County, NC | Metro: Raleigh-Cary, 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 | $1,060 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,080 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,500 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,297 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,779 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,918 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,220 | $173,087 | 0.7% | D |
| 3BR | $1,500 | $276,262 | 0.54% | F |
| 4BR | $1,980 | $335,891 | 0.59% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 27557, located in Middlesex, North Carolina, stands out within Nash County due to its unique mix of economic indicators. With a population of 8,657 residents, it has a rental rate of 25.0%, which is slightly above the national average. The median income for households in this area is $71,541, providing a solid financial base for its inhabitants. However, the median home value of $276,510 is notably higher compared to the typical home values in many rural areas of North Carolina.
Moving to the specifics of Section 8 voucher economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 27557 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,280. This amount is significantly higher than the market rent, which is reported at $845 according to the Census ACS data. This difference indicates that landlords can potentially charge more for their properties under the Section 8 program without losing tenants, thus making the ZIP code an attractive investment opportunity for those willing to participate in the program.
The data signature for ZIP 27557 suggests a relatively stable environment. The combination of a moderate rental rate, a decent median income, and a higher median home value indicates that the area is not experiencing rapid changes or extreme volatility. While the higher FMR compared to market rent might signal some transitional dynamics, the overall economic health of the ZIP code points towards stability. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider these factors when evaluating the potential for long-term investment in Middlesex, NC.
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.