Location: Durham-Chapel Hill, NC | Metro: Durham-Chapel Hill, NC HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,360 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,420 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,280 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,645 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,199 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,359 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,420 | $309,305 | 0.46% | F |
| 2BR | $1,590 | $350,592 | 0.45% | F |
| 3BR | $1,970 | $441,521 | 0.45% | F |
| 4BR | $2,280 | $709,028 | 0.32% | F |
| 5BR | $2,645 | $853,304 | 0.31% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Durham, NC's ZIP code 27701 stands out with a population of 24,793 residents, where 69.8% are renters. The median income in this area is $69,740, and the median home value is $421,627, indicating a relatively affluent neighborhood that still maintains a significant rental market.
The voucher economics in ZIP 27701 are favorable for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,430, while the Zillow Observed Rent Index (ZORI) for the market rent is $1,759. This means that landlords can expect to receive a higher rent from market tenants compared to those using Section 8 vouchers, providing an opportunity to maintain competitive pricing and attract a mix of tenants.
The data signature for ZIP 27701 reads as stable. With a high percentage of renters and a strong median income, the area supports a steady demand for housing. The median home value also suggests that there is a balance between homeownership and renting, which contributes to a consistent real estate market. For investors looking to diversify their portfolio or enter the Durham market, ZIP 27701 offers a reliable environment with potential for both rental income and property appreciation.
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.